Question

Let's develop the hints given, and make a brief character sketch of Tansen.

• Tansen bowed in silent gratitude.

Which aspect of Tansen's behaviour is seen here? Select a word from those given below.(reverent, arrogant, crafty, scornful)

• Tansen says, 'There is someone who sings better than I do.'

Choose the word which best describes his attitude.(proud, diffident, egoistic, humble)

• 'Very well, Ustadji,' said Akbar, smiling into Tansen's half-scared eyes.

Tansen is afraid of the Emperor. Which word tells us this?
(.........................................................)

• Tansen knew how to get round him. He made a deliberate mistake.

Which word best describes his attitude?(clever, kind, shy)

Answer 1

Tansen is the court musician of Emperor Akbar. He holds his emperor in high reverence as he bows to Akbar in gratitude. He is humble as he says that there is a better singer than him. Tansen is afraid of the emperor which can be evident from the expression "half-scared eyes". He wants to show Akbar that music can be produced best when it was soulful, free and unasked for. He takes him to Sant Haridas, his Guru who refuses to sing. But Tansen knows how to get around him, which shows that he is clever. When his Guruji sings, Akbar is surprised and he asks why Tansen cannot sing this way. Tansen thus teaches him the lesson that music has to be free.