Short Answer Questions
Q1: Who is Shruti Sharma and what is her aspiration?
Ans: Shruti Sharma is a young aspiring violinist who is deeply interested in music. She practises with her friends in a fusion group and wishes to explore different musical styles. She also respects her father’s views but wants to try something new in music.
Q2: Who are the members of the fusion group and what instruments do they play?
Ans: The fusion group consists of four children. Iqbal plays the flute, Avinash plays the tabla, Peter plays the keyboard, and Shruti plays the violin. Together, they practise and perform Indo-Western fusion music during their rehearsals in Iqbal’s room.
Q3: What is meant by the term ‘crescendo’?
Ans: Crescendo refers to a piece of music that gradually becomes louder and louder. It describes a rise in volume and intensity in a musical performance. In the play, the opening scene begins with a fusion music piece played in its crescendo.
Q4: Why was Shruti worried about telling her father about the concert?
Ans: Shruti was worried because her father was very strict about music and believed only classical Hindustani music should be played. She feared he would consider fusion music disrespectful and think she was ignoring his opinions, which made her unsure how to tell him properly.
Q5: What advice did Iqbal and Avinash give to Shruti?
Ans: Iqbal and Avinash advised Shruti to talk to her father openly. They encouraged her not to worry and said he would eventually understand. They believed avoiding the conversation would make things worse and suggested she face the situation bravely and honestly.
Q6: What rule did Nabin Sharma follow regarding performances?
Ans: Nabin Sharma followed a strict rule of allowing only one performance every six months. He believed that performing too often could reduce the value of an artist’s work. He emphasised practising and improving art rather than frequently appearing in performances.
Q7: How did Nabin react when he heard about the fusion concert?
Ans: Nabin reacted negatively and refused immediately. He believed it would drown her individuality and distract her from classical music, showing strong disapproval. He believed fusion would dilute her individual style and go against the discipline of classical music.
Q8: What mistake did Shruti admit to her mother?
Ans: Shruti admitted that she should have informed her parents earlier about her participation in the fusion group. She realised hiding the truth was wrong and promised her mother that she would not keep such things secret again in the future.
Q9: How did Nabin’s attitude change during the rehearsal in Act III?
Ans: During the rehearsal, Nabin observed the performance and became impressed. He praised her for maintaining the purity of the raga while performing. His earlier strict attitude softened as he realised the value of the fusion performance.
Q10: What role did Leela play in changing Nabin’s perspective?
Ans: Leela reminded Nabin of his own past, when he had chosen the violin against his family’s wishes. She helped him understand Shruti’s situation and realise that every artist has a unique path. Her explanation played a key role in changing his thinking.
Long Answer Questions
Q1: Describe the setting of the play in Act I.
Ans: The setting of Act I is Iqbal’s room, which is shown as a simple yet lively space for musical practice. It contains a small rack and a wooden table stacked with books, indicating a learning environment. The walls are decorated with posters of famous Indian flute players, reflecting a deep connection to music. In this room, four children-Iqbal, Avinash, Peter, and Shruti-gather to practise their instruments, namely flute, tabla, keyboard, and violin. The setting creates an energetic and creative atmosphere where the fusion group rehearses, collaborates, and expresses their shared passion for music.
Q2: Explain Shruti’s dilemma regarding her father and the concert.
Ans: Shruti’s dilemma arises from her desire to participate in an Indo-Western fusion concert and her fear of her father’s disapproval. Her father, Nabin, is a strict believer in classical Hindustani music and considers fusion a form of disrespect to tradition. Shruti deeply respects his views and does not want to hurt his feelings or go against his principles. At the same time, she is curious and eager to explore new musical styles with her friends. This internal conflict leaves her confused and anxious, as she struggles to find the right way to express her wishes honestly while maintaining her father’s trust.
Q3: How does Nabin’s character evolve throughout the play?
Ans: Nabin’s character undergoes significant development throughout the play. Initially, he is portrayed as a strict and traditional musician who strongly opposes fusion music and believes only classical music holds true value. He immediately rejects Shruti’s request and criticises the idea. However, his perspective begins to change when he secretly observes her rehearsal and is impressed by her performance. With the help of Leela’s reminder about his own past struggles, he realises that he had once gone against tradition too. This reflection softens his attitude, and he becomes more understanding, supportive, and proud of Shruti’s choices.
Q4: What message does the play convey about tradition and modernity?
Ans: The play conveys a meaningful message about the need to balance tradition and modernity in art and life. It shows that while traditional values and classical forms of music are important and should be respected, it is equally necessary to allow space for new ideas and experimentation. Through Shruti’s journey, the play highlights how younger generations seek to explore and innovate, while older generations may initially resist change. Nabin’s transformation demonstrates that openness, understanding, and dialogue can bridge this gap. Ultimately, the play promotes harmony between the old and the new, encouraging growth and creativity.
Q5: How does the ending of the play reflect understanding and acceptance?
Ans: The ending of the play reflects a positive resolution built on understanding, acceptance, and emotional growth. After witnessing Shruti’s performance, Nabin realises that fusion music does not diminish classical values but can coexist with them. He acknowledges that his fears were unnecessary and expresses trust in his daughter’s abilities and judgment. Shruti, in turn, reassures him of her dedication to music. The family shares a moment of warmth and reconciliation, showing mutual respect and support. This conclusion highlights the importance of communication, empathy, and open-mindedness in resolving conflicts and strengthening relationships within a family.