What do we call a specific sequence of notes that is peculiar to each Raga of Indian classical music and by which a listener can instantly recognise the Raga?

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (D) Pakad.

Explanation:
In Indian classical music, the term Pakad refers to a specific sequence of notes or a melodic phrase that is characteristic of a particular Raga. This sequence helps the listener instantly recognize the Raga. Pakad is the essential melodic formula that gives the raga its identity and is usually a short, memorable segment of the raga.

Information Booster:

• The Aroha refers to the ascending scale of a Raga, while Avaroha refers to the descending scale.

• The Thata is a systematic classification of ragas in Hindustani music, describing a set of ragas that are based on a specific set of notes.

• Pakad is more important in recognizing the Raga rather than the full ascending or descending scale. It is a small but essential part of a Raga's unique identity.

• In Carnatic music, the concept of "Raga Alapana" is more prominent, which involves the free-flowing exploration of the Raga.

• The Raga system in Indian classical music is closely tied to specific emotions or times of day, and Pakad helps in emphasizing the mood or expression associated with the Raga.

Additional Knowledge:

• Thata: This is a classification system in Hindustani classical music that categorizes ragas into specific groups based on their notes.

• Aroha: Refers to the ascending order of the notes of a raga.

• Avaroha: Refers to the descending order of the notes of a raga.