Previous Year Question

Option (a) is not correct. The name Tansen was already associated with him before he entered Akbar's court. In the historical tradition of Indian music, the title ‘Tansen’ is associated with Raja Vikramjit of Gwalior, whereas Akbar bestowed upon him the honorific ‘Mian’; he consequently became famous as Mian Tansen.

Before joining Akbar's court, Tansen was under the patronage of Raja Ramachandra of Rewa. Around 1562 CE, he entered Akbar's court and became one of the most distinguished musicians of the Mughal court. Akbar's contemporary Abul Fazl also described Tansen as an extraordinary musician of his age.

Option (b) is correct. Tansen was a great exponent of Dhrupad. His compositions included Dhrupads connected with Hindu deities such as Ganesha, Shiva, Parvati and Rama.

Option (c) is correct. In accordance with the courtly musical tradition of the period, Tansen also composed works in praise of his royal patrons.

Option (d) is also regarded as correct. Hindustani musical tradition credits Tansen with the creation or refinement of several Ragas. Mian ki Todi, Mian ki Malhar, Mian ki Sarang and Darbari Kanhra are particularly associated with his musical tradition.