Which of the following option is not related with Pakhawaj (Ancient Pushkar) ?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 3:
The correct option is 3: Udwahit. This question delves into the historical classification of Indian classical percussion instruments, specifically the Pakhawaj, which is an evolution of the ancient *Tripushkar* drums described in the *Natyashastra* by Bharata Muni. The *Pushkar* or *Tripushkar* drum system originally involved a set of three drums, and the primary classification of these drums was based on their distinct playing positions, which defined their respective names. *Urdhwak*, *Ankik*, and *Alingya* are the universally recognized three types of drums (*Bhanda*) or their corresponding playing postures within this ancient classification. *Udwahit*, meaning "elevated" or "lifted up," is not a term used in the *Natyashastra* or subsequent musicological treatises to denote a specific type or playing position of the *Tripushkar* drum set, making it the only option unrelated to the ancient Pakhawaj.

The incorrect option is 1:
Urdhwak. This is incorrect because *Urdhwak* is one of the three principal varieties of the *Pushkar* drum family, meaning it *is* directly related to the ancient Pakhawaj. The term literally translates to "upright" or "vertical" and refers to the drum that was placed with its face pointing upwards during performance. This drum was the primary one of the *Tripushkar* set, responsible for setting the rhythmic foundation. Since the question asks for the option *not* related to the Pakhawaj, *Urdhwak* must be excluded as it is a core constituent of the ancient drum system.

The incorrect option is 2:
Ankik. This option is incorrect because *Ankik* is another of the three fundamental types of the *Pushkar* drums. The term *Ankik* means "on the lap" or "placed on the flank." This drum was played in a horizontal position, resting on the lap of the performer. The inclusion of *Ankik* alongside *Urdhwak* and *Alingya* completed the *Tripushkar* ensemble. As a key part of the ancient drum classification, it is definitely related to the Pakhawaj's historical lineage.

The incorrect option is 4:
Alingya. This option is incorrect because *Alingya* is the third of the three established names for the *Tripushkar* drums and their playing positions. *Alingya* translates to "embracing" and refers to the posture where the performer held the drum close to the body, resembling an embrace. This posture allowed for different dynamic and tonal variations. Because *Alingya* is a core component of the ancient *Pushkar* classification that preceded the Pakhawaj, it is inherently related and cannot be the correct answer to the question asking for the unrelated term.