A Beginner's Guide to Indian Classical Music | History, Styles & Instruments

For all those wondering what Indian Classical Music is all about and the various aspects that make it different from other forms of music, we are sure this article is going to serve as an interesting read for you!

Indian Classical Music is classical music that belongs to the Indian subcontinent. It traces its origins to the Vedic scriptures that date back to more than 6000 years ago. These ancient texts form the foundation of Hinduism and are divided into four parts: Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Atharvaveda.

When these chants developed a musical note over time, they gave rise to classical music.

Indian classical music which started in South Asia has now evolved to a powerful form of music that has spread its influence to different parts of the world. It mainly exists in two forms: Hindustani Classical Music and Carnatic Classical Music.

Let’s dig a little into each one of them so you can grasp a better understanding of this music form.

The Hindustani Music form originates from the Arab and Persian musical cultures that influenced the region following the Islamic conquest of the northern subcontinent. Instrumental music is a heavy component of this form with specific variations arising from it which are purely based on the instrumental forms. are the sitar, sarod, sarangi ,shehnai ,tabla, and tanpura.

The Carnatic form is not influenced by Muslim culture unlike the previous one. While Hindustani music was prevalent in Northern India, Carnatic took over the southern part of the subcontinent. The intensity of the sound can be controlled better in this style and the time durations are also more well-defined here.

Some of the most commonly used instruments in classical music are as follows:

Sitar: It is named after a Persian instrument called the setar and gained widespread popularity during the Mughal period.

Tabla- The tabla is a percussion instrument integral to Hindustani music, with its origins tracing back to the late 18th century. Today, it is not only used in the Indian subcontinent but in the neighboring countries of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh too.

Veena: A chordophone instrument that has developed into various forms, including lutes, zithers, and arched harps. It is referred to by various names, including Rudra Veena, Saraswati Veena, and Vichitra Veena.

Mridangam: Mridangam: Similar to the tabla, the mridangam is a percussion instrument, but it holds a key position as the main rhythmic foundation in Carnatic music.

RAGA & TAAL

Classical music takes heavy inspiration from nature and its various phenomena such as seasons or times of the day to create the ragas and taal.

Yaman Raag: This ancient raga holds significance in both Carnatic and Hindustani music, the two major forms of Indian classical music.

Raag Yaman: Performed from sunset until late evening, this raga is celebrated for its grace and beauty, creating a mood of devotion and deep reverence. It symbolizes an unconditional offering of all that one has to their chosen purpose, expecting nothing in return.

Raag Bhimpalasi: An afternoon raga, performed from late afternoon to sunset, it is deeply poignant and passionate, resonating with emotions of longing and yearning.

The next part of classical music we need to understand is the ‘taal’ which is nothing but the time cycle. It is essentially a meter that measures the count or beat in music.

Now, we arrive at an intriguing question:

What sets Indian classical music apart from other forms, such as Bollywood music?

What makes a particular form of music stand out is its context and the purpose for which it has been created. Classical artists defend their music and are of the fervent belief that their style is for enlightenment.

Compare this with Bollywood music and you’ll realize that the latter is more focused on the entertainment aspect of music. Classical music is more disciplined and codified when compared to other forms. One needs a strong sense of dedication and utmost discipline to master this difficult form of music.

Indian classical music is a musical tradition deeply rooted in spirituality. Engaging in this form of music will provide you with a sense of rejuvenation that will uplift not just your mind, but your soul too. We’re not going to lie, classical music is no piece of cake.

To be able to master this art, you need to have a strong sense of determination and discipline. These two core values are an absolute must for anyone who wishes to start their journey into the classical world.

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