UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 21
Which one of the following Carnatic music ragas is similar to Raga Bilawal in Hindustani music?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: D
Correct Option: D
Explanation: Bilawal is the natural major scale; its Carnatic counterpart is Dheera Shankarabharanam (melakarta 29).
Option-wise Analysis:
A: Incorrect - Natabhairavi uses the natural minor scale, corresponding more closely to Asavari-type material.
B: Incorrect - Kamavardhini uses a different scale with a sharp fourth, unlike Bilawal.
C: Incorrect - Hanumatodi has flattened notes and is not equivalent to Bilawal.
D: Correct - Dheera Shankarabharanam and Bilawal share the major-scale swaras.