Question

Who among the following played a significant role in the promotion and patronage of the Dhrupad style?

• A. Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Amir Khusrau
• B. Maharaja Man Singh Tomar and Emperor Akbar
• C. Swami Vivekananda and Ustad Bismillah Khan
• D. Tulsidas and Kalidasa

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Maharaja Man Singh Tomar and Emperor Akbar

Dhrupad: This style refers to both the structure of poetic verses and the manner of singing. It gained prominence during the medieval era and was supported by patrons such as Akbar, who engaged musicians like Baba Gopal Das, Swami Haridas, and Tansen—one of the Navaratnas of his court. Maharaja Man Singh Tomar of Gwalior played a key role in popularizing dhrupad. Traditionally accompanied by the been and pakhawaj, this style has seen a decline in patronage.