Nafiri, Sundri, Sunadi' are the other names of :

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 2: Shehnai.
The terms 'Nafiri', 'Sundri', and 'Sunadi' are historically significant and regionally specific alternative names for the Shehnai, a distinguished North Indian wind instrument. The Shehnai belongs to the *Sushir Vadya* (aerophones) category and is an ancient double-reed instrument, believed to be an improved version of the Pungi. 'Nafiri' is a term for various types of horns, often used to refer to the Shehnai in Persian or Arabic-influenced regions, highlighting its loud and penetrating tone, especially in an ensemble. 'Sundri' (or *Sana'i*) and 'Sunadi' emphasize the instrument's inherently melodious and beautiful sound (*sundar* meaning beautiful). Its primary role in temples, weddings, and auspicious ceremonies—known as *Mangal Vadya*—makes these regional names synonymous with its auspicious and essential identity in classical and folk traditions.

The incorrect option is 1:
The Flute (Bansuri or Venu) is an entirely different class of wind instrument, also classified as *Sushir Vadya*, but fundamentally distinct in construction and technique. It is a simple, transverse (side-blown) aerophone without a reed. The Flute's sound is produced by blowing across an embouchure hole, causing the column of air to vibrate. This mechanism of production is completely different from the double-reed system of the Shehnai, which is crucial for the latter's unique tone. Therefore, the terms 'Nafiri', 'Sundri', and 'Sunadi' are never used for the Bansuri.

The incorrect option is 3:
Taasha is a percussion instrument, classifying it as an *Avanaddha Vadya* (membrane drum), which is a category entirely separate from any wind instrument. It is a shallow kettle drum typically played with sticks and is mainly used in vibrant ensembles for ceremonial, martial, or festive music, providing a rhythmic base. Since the Taasha produces sound by striking a stretched animal hide or membrane and not through blowing, it shares no structural or functional relationship with the Shehnai or its synonyms.

The incorrect option is 4:
Iktara is a string instrument, classified as a *Tantri Vadya* (chordophone), and is thus fundamentally different from a wind instrument like the Shehnai. The Iktara, literally meaning 'one string,' is a simple drone instrument popular in folk music and used by mendicants, providing a rhythmic and pitch reference. The sound is produced by plucking its single string, which is an action completely unrelated to the blowing and reed manipulation required for the Shehnai, making the terms 'Nafiri' or 'Sundri' inapplicable.