Chapter 4: Tansen
Introduction to the Story
Overview
“Tansen” is a story from the book “A Pact with the Sun,” which is part of the Class 6 Supplementary Reader in English. This chapter narrates the life of Tansen, one of the greatest musicians in Indian history. It highlights his early life, his talent, and his journey to becoming a legendary singer in the court of Emperor Akbar.
Importance of the Story
Summary of the Story
The Plot
The story follows Tansen from his childhood to his rise as a celebrated musician. It describes his early fascination with music, his training under a renowned teacher, and his ultimate recognition by Emperor Akbar.
Characters
– Tansen: The main character, a talented musician.
– Mukandan Misra: Tansen’s father.
– Swami Haridas: Tansen’s music teacher.
– Emperor Akbar: The Mughal emperor who recognizes Tansen’s talent.
– Other Musicians: Musicians in Akbar’s court who become envious of Tansen.
Key Events
1. Early Life: Tansen shows an early interest in music and imitating bird sounds.
2. Training: Tansen learns music under Swami Haridas.
3. Recognition: Tansen’s talent is recognized, and he is invited to Akbar’s court.
4. Court Musician*: Tansen becomes one of the nine jewels (Navaratnas) in Akbar’s court.
5. Jealousy: Other musicians in the court become envious of Tansen.
Moral of the Story
The Value of Talent and Hard Work
The story teaches that true talent, combined with hard work and dedication, will eventually be recognized and rewarded. It also highlights the importance of perseverance and the positive impact of a good mentor.
Vocabulary and Expressions
Key Vocabulary
– Musician: A person who plays a musical instrument or is musically talented.
– Renowned: Famous or well-known.
– Mento: An experienced and trusted advisor.
– Envious: Feeling or showing jealousy.
Important Expressions
– “Nine jewels”: Refers to the nine most talented and trusted individuals in Akbar’s court.
– “Gifted with a talent”: Having a natural ability or skill.
Activities and Exercises
Comprehension Questions
– Describe Tansen’s early life.
– Who was Tansen’s music teacher?
– How did Tansen come to be recognized by Emperor Akbar?
– What challenges did Tansen face in Akbar’s court?
Vocabulary Practice
– Define the word “musician” and use it in a sentence.
– What is the opposite of “envious”?
– Find synonyms for the word “renowned.”
Discussion Topics
– Discuss how mentorship played a role in Tansen’s success.
– Can you think of a person in your life who has been a mentor to you?
Summary
Key Points
– Tansen’s story teaches the value of talent, hard work, and perseverance.
– The story highlights the importance of having a good mentor.
– It also shows that true talent will eventually be recognized and rewarded.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Common Questions About “Tansen”
– Tansen was one of the greatest musicians in Indian history.
– Tansen showed an early talent for music and imitating bird sounds.
– Swami Haridas, a renowned music teacher, recognized Tansen’s talent.
– Tansen’s talent was recognized by Emperor Akbar, who invited him to join his court.
– Tansen became one of the nine jewels (Navaratnas) in Akbar’s court.
– Tansen faced jealousy and envy from other musicians in the court.
– Mukandan Misra was Tansen’s father.
– It refers to the nine most talented and trusted individuals in Akbar’s court.
– Tansen is considered a legend due to his extraordinary musical talent and his contributions to Indian classical music.
– The story teaches the value of talent, hard work, and having a good mentor.
– Swami Haridas trained Tansen in music and helped him develop his talent.
– Tansen is significant for his contributions to Indian classical music and his role in Akbar’s court.
– Tansen’s talent enhanced the cultural richness of Akbar’s court and entertained the emperor.
– The story suggests that a good mentor can significantly influence and guide a person’s talent and career.
– Other musicians in the court were envious of Tansen’s talent and recognition.
– Tansen’s father supported his early interest in music and allowed him to be trained by Swami Haridas.
– Emperor Akbar invited Tansen to his court after hearing about his exceptional musical talent.
– Tansen’s music deeply moved and mesmerized people, including Emperor Akbar.
– In the context of the story, ‘renowned’ means famous and well-respected for one’s talent.
– The story does not detail Tansen’s personal response, but it shows that his talent and recognition outweighed the envy he faced.
– Tansen’s natural talent, dedication, hard work, and mentorship under Swami Haridas made him a great musician.
– Swami Haridas provided Tansen with rigorous training and guidance, shaping his musical abilities and career.
– The story teaches that hard work, combined with talent, leads to success and recognition.
– Tansen’s story is included to inspire readers with his dedication to music and the importance of mentorship and perseverance.
– The broader message is that true talent, guided by hard work and good mentorship, will always shine and be recognized.
Tansen MCQs
1. What was Tansen’s early talent?
2. Who was Tansen’s music teacher?
3. How did Tansen come to be recognized by Emperor Akbar?
4. What was the reaction of other musicians in Akbar’s court towards Tansen?
5. What is the term ‘nine jewels’ in Akbar’s court referred to?
6. What was the first song Tansen sang in Akbar’s court?
7. How did Tansen handle the jealousy of other musicians in the court?
8. What effect did Tansen’s music have on Emperor Akbar?
9. What advice did Swami Haridas give to Tansen?
10. What is the broader message of Tansen’s story?
Read comprehensive short notes for Chapter 4 of the Class 6 English NCERT book ‘Honeysuckle,’ covering ‘An Indian – American Woman in Space: Kalpana Chawla and Beauty.’ Click here for detailed insights.
