Question:

Write a brief note on the different schools of playing Mridangam.

Show Hint

Name the two schools, the person linked to each, and one feature of each style.
Updated On: Nov 3, 2026
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
A school (bani) is a style of playing handed down through teachers and students. The marking scheme asks for the two styles, Pudukottai and Tanjavur, and the person who introduced each (1 + 1 marks).

Step 2: The Tanjavur school:
The Tanjavur style is linked with Narayanaswami Appa, who is seen as an early master of mridangam in the Tanjavur region.
It is known for a soft, clear tone, balanced use of both hands and a style that suits the singer. Tanjavur Vaidyanatha Iyer and Palaghat Mani Iyer followed this tradition.

Step 3: The Pudukottai school:
The Pudukottai style was founded by Manpoondia Pillai, who was a court artist of Pudukottai. He also brought the kanjira into concerts.
It is known for strong strokes, bold rhythmic work and clever calculation. Dakshinamurthy Pillai and Palani Subramania Pillai belong to this school.

Step 4: Compare in short:
Tanjavur: gentle and melodic, introduced by Narayanaswami Appa.
Pudukottai: strong and laya centred, founded by Manpoondia Pillai.

Final Answer:
The two major schools of mridangam are Tanjavur (Narayanaswami Appa) and Pudukottai (Manpoondia Pillai). \[ \boxed{\text{Tanjavur and Pudukottai schools}} \]
Was this answer helpful?
0
0

Top CBSE X Questions

View More Questions