Tansen

 Textual Notes for NCERT Grade 6 Supplementary Reader A Pact With The Sun

Chapter 4 Tansen 

1. Why did Swami Haridas say Tansen was ‘talented’?

Swami Haridas called Tansen talented because he noticed his musical abilities and saw potential in him to become a good singer.

2. Why did Akbar ask Tansen to join his court?

Akbar asked Tansen to join his court because he was impressed by Tansen's singing skills and wanted to enjoy his performances.

3. How do we know that Akbar was fond of Tansen? Give two reasons.

Akbar would call upon Tansen to sing at any time during the day or night and would often visit Tansen's house to hear him practice, which showed his fondness for him.

4. What did the other courtiers feel about Tansen?

The other courtiers felt jealous of Tansen and wanted to ruin him because of his popularity and favor with Emperor Akbar.

5. (i)What happens if Raga Deepak is sung properly?

If Raga Deepak is sung properly, it generates intense heat and can even burn the singer to ashes.

5. (ii)Why did Tansen’s enemies want him to sing the Raga?

Tansen's enemies wanted him to sing Raga Deepak because they believed that if he sang it properly, the heat produced would lead to his demise.

6. Why did Tansen agree to sing Raga Deepak?

Tansen agreed to sing Raga Deepak because he couldn't disobey the king's request, despite knowing the danger it posed to him.

7. (i) What steps did he take to save himself?

To save himself, Tansen taught his daughter, Saraswati, and her friend, Rupvati, to sing Raga Megh simultaneously, which could bring rain and counteract the heat of Raga Deepak.

7. (ii) Did his plan work? How?

Yes, Tansen's plan worked. When he started singing Raga Deepak, the heat became unbearable, but the girls began singing Raga Megh, bringing rain and saving him from harm.