Question 73 from UPSC CSE 2019 - Medieval History

Question

With reference to Mian Tansen, which one of the following statements is not correct?

Accepted Answer

Correct Option: A. Tansen was the title given to him by Emperor Akbar.

Strategy: Identify the factually incorrect statement about Tansen's titles and career. The core of the strategy is to distinguish between the title 'Mian', given by Akbar, and the name/title 'Tansen', which he already held. The other options align with his documented work, making option A the clear contradiction.

Key Info: - Tansen (circa 1500–1586), born Ramtanu Pandey, was a legendary Hindustani classical musician and a prominent figure, one of the Navaratnas (nine gems), in the court of Mughal emperor Akbar.
- Before joining Akbar's court, he served as a musician for Raja Ramchandra Singh of Rewa.
- The title 'Mian', a mark of respect, was conferred upon him by Akbar. The name or title 'Tansen' is believed to have been given by an earlier patron, Raja Vikramjit of Gwalior, or was his assumed professional name.
- Tansen was renowned for his compositions in the dhrupad style, creating pieces dedicated to Hindu deities like Shiva, Rama, and Krishna, as well as in praise of his patrons, a common practice for court musicians.
- He is traditionally credited with inventing or systematizing several ragas, including Miyan ki Todi, Miyan ki Malhar, and Miyan ki Sarang, though the exact authorship is part of later tradition.
- The Mughal court during his era fostered a musical environment that blended both Hindu and Persian influences.

Answer

Option B: Tansen composed Dhrupad on Hindu gods and goddesses.

Answer

Option C: Tansen composed songs on his patrons.

Answer

Option D: Tansen invented many ragas.