The musical traditions of India
Classical music in India has two main traditions: Carnatic music and Hindustani music. Carnatic music is found mainly in the Southern peninsula, while Hindustani music is found in northern and central India. Both the traditions have a Vedic origin, but they diverged in the 13th century.
Carnatic music developed gradually from the ancient musical traditions of South India. There was a long tradition of music in ancient Tamil literature. The Vedas too had an influence on Carnatic music. In the Yajur Veda there is a mention of the instruments called the veena being used during sacrifices to the gods. From the 13th century Carnatic music began to develop into current form. The difference with Hindustani music is that it was not influenced by the Muslim invaders of the north. Instead, Carnatic music assimilated the ancient traditions of Tamil music.
The other form of Indian classic music: Hindustani music, developed in North India in the 13th c and the 14th centuries. It was singing based on notes in music. This was popular even in the Vedic times, when hymns from the Vedas were sung, and not chanted. In contrast to Carnatic music, Hindustani music was influenced by many factors: Hindu music, Vedic philosophy, Persian musicians among the Afghans and Mughals, as well as religious, folk and theatre performances.
Hindustani classical music also influenced a form of devotional music of the Muslim Sufi. This form of music is called Quawwali, and is gaining popularity even as simple entertainment. The music is performed by one or two lead singers, and a number of singers who sing the chorus. They use instruments like the harmonium, table and dholak.
In the Rabindranath songs show the influence of the classical `thumri’ style, folk songs, and even Western music.
This is just a glimpse into the rich musical heritage of India. You might be interested in finding out about other popular forms like Bhajan, Ghazal, Kirtan, Shabad and Gurbani.
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