Quiz on The Sound of Music - The Shehnai of Bismillah Khan

What instrument was banned by Emperor Aurangzeb?

• Shehnai

• Harmonium

• Pungi

• Tabla

Answer explanation

Emperor Aurangzeb banned the pungi, a traditional instrument, due to its association with street performers and its use in snake charming, which he deemed unworthy. This led to the decline of its popularity.

Who is credited with bringing the shehnai onto the classical stage?

• Ustad Bismillah Khan

• Paigambar Bux

• Rasool Bux Khan

• Maharaja of Bhojpur

Answer explanation

Ustad Bismillah Khan is credited with bringing the shehnai onto the classical stage, elevating its status and showcasing its potential in Indian classical music.

What was the original name of the instrument that became known as the shehnai?

• Pungi

• Nai

• Naubat

• Dhol

Answer explanation

The shehnai, a traditional Indian wind instrument, was originally known as the pungi. It was later refined and renamed to shehnai, distinguishing it from its earlier, less formal use.

In which state was Bismillah Khan born?

• Uttar Pradesh

• Bihar

• Madhya Pradesh

• West Bengal

Answer explanation

Bismillah Khan was born in Bihar, India. He is renowned for his contributions to Indian classical music, particularly as a shehnai player, and his birthplace is a significant part of his identity.

What was Bismillah Khan's reward for singing at the Bihariji temple?

• A musical instrument

• A shehnai

• A big laddu

• A gold coin

Answer explanation

Bismillah Khan was rewarded with a big laddu for his performance at the Bihariji temple, highlighting the cultural significance of food offerings in Indian traditions.

What is the significance of the shehnai in North Indian weddings?

• It is considered inauspicious.

• It is an indispensable component.

• It is used for funerals.

• It is played only in royal courts.

Answer explanation

The shehnai is a traditional musical instrument that plays a vital role in North Indian weddings, symbolizing joy and auspiciousness. Its presence is considered essential for creating a festive atmosphere during the celebrations.

What did the barber do to improve the pungi?

• Played it differently

• Made it shorter

• Added more holes

• Used a different material

Answer explanation

The barber improved the pungi by adding more holes, which enhanced its sound quality and made it more effective for playing music. This change directly contributed to the instrument's performance.

What does the term 'naubat' refer to?

• A musical competition

• A type of shehnai

• A royal palace

• A traditional ensemble of instruments

Answer explanation

The term 'naubat' refers to a traditional ensemble of instruments used in Indian classical music, typically featuring a combination of drums, wind, and string instruments, rather than a competition or a specific type of instrument.

What year was Bismillah Khan born?

• 1916

• 1925

• 1920

• 1910

Answer explanation

Bismillah Khan was born in 1916, making this the correct answer. The other options, 1925, 1920, and 1910, do not match his birth year.

How did Bismillah Khan earn the Bharat Ratna?

• By winning competitions

• By improving the shehnai

• By playing in royal courts

• By his contributions to music

Answer explanation

Bismillah Khan earned the Bharat Ratna due to his significant contributions to Indian music, particularly in popularizing the shehnai and elevating its status in classical music, rather than through competitions or royal performances.