Which of the following musical instruments is not a Ghan Vadya (Metallic instrument)?

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (d) Jantar

Explanation:

• Indian musical instruments are traditionally classified into Tat (string), Sushir (wind), Avanaddha (membrane), and Ghan (solid/metallic percussion) instruments.

• Ghan Vadya instruments produce sound by striking the instrument itself without the use of strings or membranes.

• Jhanjh is a metallic cymbal instrument and belongs to Ghan Vadya.

• Manjira consists of a pair of small metallic cymbals and is also a Ghan Vadya instrument.

• Khartal is generally classified under Ghan Vadya as it produces sound through striking solid pieces together.

• Jantar is a stringed folk instrument of Rajasthan and belongs to the Tat Vadya category, not Ghan Vadya.

Information Booster:

• The classification of Indian musical instruments is based on the ancient text Natya Shastra by Bharata Muni.

• Tat Vadya instruments include Sitar, Veena, Sarod, and Jantar.

Additional Knowledge:

Jhanjh (Option a)

• A large pair of metallic cymbals.

• Commonly used in devotional music and folk performances.

• Produces sound by striking the two plates together.

Khartal (Option b)

• A percussion instrument played by clapping wooden or metallic pieces.

• Popular in Rajasthan and devotional music traditions.

• Categorized under Ghan Vadya due to self-sounding characteristics.

Manjira (Option c)

• A pair of small hand-held metallic cymbals.

• Widely used in Bhajan and Kirtan performances.

• Produces a sharp rhythmic metallic sound.