Anatomy Of Musical Instruments

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to match the technical terms for parts of a Mridangam (List-I) with their equivalent or analogous parts on a Tabla or Pakhawaj (List-II).
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- (A) Karanai: On a Mridangam, this term often refers to the black paste applied to the right drumhead, which is functionally and materially the same as the (III) Syahi on a Tabla. So, A matches with (III).
- (B) Kallu-Pullu: This refers to the braided leather ring on the Mridangam head, through which the straps pass. This is directly equivalent to the (II) Gajra on a Tabla. So, B matches with (II).
- (C) Varu: These are the long leather straps that run the length of the Mridangam to provide tension. They are the direct equivalent of the (I) Baddhi on a Tabla. So, C matches with (I).
- (D) Mootu: These are the small wooden blocks on a Mridangam that are moved to make fine adjustments to the pitch. While not a direct part-for-part equivalent, their tuning function is analogous to the action of the (IV) Hathodi (tuning hammer) used on a Tabla's gattas. So, D matches with (IV) by function.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct set of matches is A-III, B-II, C-I, D-IV.

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question asks to identify the specific part of the Mridangam responsible for producing low-frequency, or bass, sounds.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Mridangam is a two-sided drum. The two heads are distinct in size and sound:
- The right side ('Valanthalai') is smaller and produces high-pitched, metallic sounds.
- The left side ('Toppi') is larger. A paste of flour and water is applied to it before playing to lower its pitch and give it a characteristic deep, resonant bass sound.
The other options ('Chapu', 'Meetu', 'Arachapu') are names of strokes played on the instrument, not parts of the instrument itself.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The Toppi, or the left side of the Mridangam, produces the bass sound.

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the specific term for the leather straps used to apply tension to the drumheads of a Mridangam.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
In the construction of a Mridangam, the two drumheads (Valanthalai and Toppi) are held in place and tensioned by numerous thick leather straps that run along the length of the wooden shell. These straps are known as 'Varu'. By adjusting the tension of the Varu, the pitch of the Mridangam is controlled.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The leather straps on a Mridangam are called Varu.

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the specific name of the left-hand drum head of the Carnatic percussion instrument, the Mridangam.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Mridangam is a double-sided drum.
- The right side, which is smaller, produces high-pitched, sharp sounds. It is called the 'Valanthalai'.
- The left side is larger and produces the bass sounds. This side is known as the 'Toppi'. A temporary paste of flour and water is often applied to the Toppi to lower its pitch and give it a rich bass tone.
The other terms refer to playing strokes.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The left-hand side of the Mridangam is called the Toppi.

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks about a specific detail in the construction of a tabla. The 'Gajara' is the braided leather ring that encircles the 'Pudi' (drumhead).
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Gajara serves as the anchor for the leather straps ('baddhi'). These straps are threaded through the holes in the Gajara and run down the side of the tabla shell, where they are tied to the bottom ring, providing tension to the drumhead. A standard, professionally made tabla has 16 holes in its Gajara to accommodate the 16 straps.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The standard number of holes in the Gajara of a tabla is 16.