UPSC Prelims 2019 · Question 76 of 99

UPSC Prelims 2019 question on Mian Tansen Akbar Court

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

  1. Tansen was the title given to him by Emperor Akbar.
  2. Tansen composed Dhrupada on Hindu gods and goddesses.
  3. Tansen composed songs on his patrons.
  4. Tansen invented many Ragas.
Show answer

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

Tansen was the most important musician during the reign of Akbar and is credited with composing many ragas. Tansen was one of the best known dhrupad singers and one of the nine jewels of Emperor Akbar's court. He composed songs on his patrons.

Tansen was the title given to him by Raja Vikramjit of Gwalior — NOT by Emperor Akbar. When Akbar heard of his prodigious talent, he sent a 'firman' to the king asking for Tansen and made him one of the Navaratnas in his court. He gave him the title of 'Mian'.

Hence the statements are correct except statement (a) — the title 'Tansen' was given by Raja Vikramjit of Gwalior, not by Emperor Akbar.

Not correct statement: (a) → Option (a).

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