Classification of Indian music is based on traditions, cultures, place of origin, socio-economic practices, etc. There are numerous types of music prevalent in the Indian subcontinent, each of which falls into a different category. Some are more classically inclined, while others are experimenting with global music. Recently, there has been a trend to create a fusion of classical heritage with newer musical strands such as pop, jazz, and so on, and this is gaining popularity. In this article we will study about the classification of Indian music which is important for UPSC exam preparation.

Classical Music

Two distinct schools of Indian classical music emerged over time:

• Hindustani music - It is practised in northern India.
• Carnatic music - It is a type of Indian classical music that is popular in the southern parts of the country.

Hindustani Music

• Hindustani music is more concerned with musical structure and the possibilities for improvisation.
• The Hindustani branch adopted the Shudha Swara Saptaka scale, also known as the "Octave of Natural Notes."
• In Hindustani music, there are ten main singing styles: 'Dhrupad,' 'Dhamar,' 'Hori,' 'Khayal,' 'Tappa,' 'Chaturang,' 'Ragasagar,' 'Tarana,' 'Sargam,' and 'Thumri.'

*For detailed notes of this topic, check this link Hindustani Classical Music

Semi-classical Style of Hindustani Music

• Swara (note) is also used in semi-classical music.
• They do, however, deviate slightly from the standard structure of the raga in the way that lighter versions of ragas such as Bhoopali or Malkaush are used.
• They use a lighter version of tala and madhyam or dhrut laya, which means they have a faster tempo.
• They place a greater emphasis on bhava and lyrics than on alap-jod-tan-jhala.
• Some of the most well-known semi-classical styles include thumri, tappa, and ghazal.

Carnatic Music

• The Carnatic branch composes music in the traditional octave.
• The music is kriti-based, with an emphasis on the saahitya or lyric quality of the musical piece.
• The Kriti is a highly developed musical song set to a specific raga and tala (rhythmic cycle).
• Every composition in the Carnatic style is made up of several parts: Pallavi, Anu Pallavi, Varnam and Ragamalika.

*For detailed notes of this topic, check this link Carnatic Music

Hindustani Music vs Carnatic Music

Folk Music

• India is a geographically diverse country, and this diversity is reflected in its culture.
• Each state in this country has its own style of music that serves as the foundation for its cultural identity.
• While classical music adheres to the Natyashastra rules and cultivates a guru-shishya (student-mentor) tradition, folk music is the music of the people and has no hard and fast rules.
• They have a variety of themes and are full of musical rhythm. They are also set to beats, allowing them to be dance-oriented.
• There are various types of folk music associated with each state.

*For detailed notes of this topic, check this link Folk Music

Fusion of Classical and Folk Music

• Classical and folk musics converge over time, and new forms emerge that incorporate elements of both.
• Usually, devotional music brings these two together because both royalty and commoners worship the deities, so the songs combine both genres.
• Some of the styles are as follows:
  • Sugam Sangeet (It includes Bhajan, Shabad, qawwali)
  • Rabindra Sangeet
  • Gana Sangeet
  • Haveli Sangeet

*For detailed notes of this topic, check this link Fusion of Classical and Folk Music

Modern Music

• In music, modernism is defined by a desire for or belief in science, nature, intelligence, anti-romanticism, and other forward-thinking ideas.
• Modern music is also referred to as twentieth-century music. It has been a period of significant change.
• Science, technology, and our growing understanding of the world around us, for example, have inspired people to write music that reflects what they see and how they feel about what they see.
• Art experimented with new forms, techniques, and styles during the Modern period. Composers of music did the same thing.
• They experimented with various methods of producing sound. Rhythmic patterns became much more free, frequently changing throughout a piece.
• Melody's tone was becoming more dissonant, harsher, and was moving in leaps rather than steps. Harmony was becoming more dissonant as well.
• Different types of modern music includes - Jazz, Rock, Pop Music.

*For detailed notes of this topic, check this link Modern Music

Conclusion

Classification of Indian music is vast and constantly evolving, representing local traditions and cultures. It is classified into various genres based on its region of occurrence. Indian music is religious, secular in nature. In present times it also has the influence of global music.

FAQs

MCQs

1. Which of the following instruments is commonly used in Carnatic music?

A. Sitar
B. Veena
C. Tabla
D. Sarangi

2. Hindustani music primarily emphasizes which of the following?

A. Composition
B. Folk traditions
C. Improvisation
D. Dance forms

3. Which of the following is an example of Indian folk music?

A. Thumri
B. Lavani
C. Khayal
D. Kriti

4. What is the primary focus of Carnatic music?

A. Dance
B. Religious texts
C. Composition
D. Instrumental music

5. Which genre blends traditional Indian music with global genres?

A. Folk
B. Fusion
C. Thumri
D. Classical

GS Mains Questions and Model Answers

Q1: Discuss the significance of Hindustani and Carnatic music in the cultural landscape of India.

Answer: Hindustani and Carnatic music represent the two main classical traditions of India. Hindustani music, prevalent in North India, emphasizes improvisation within ragas, while Carnatic music, from South India, is more composition-focused. Both styles are integral to India's cultural identity, preserving ancient musical traditions, contributing to religious practices, and influencing contemporary forms of music. Together, they form a critical aspect of India’s intangible cultural heritage.

Q2: Analyze the role of folk music in preserving the regional diversity of India.

Answer: Folk music serves as a mirror to India's vast regional diversity, capturing local traditions, stories, and practices. Each region, from Rajasthan's Ghoomar to Assam's Bihu, expresses its unique cultural identity through folk songs and dance. These traditions, passed down orally, play a crucial role in preserving languages, social values, and community histories, ensuring that local customs continue to thrive in modern India.

Q3: Evaluate the impact of modern fusion music on traditional Indian classical and folk forms.

Answer: Fusion music has bridged the gap between traditional Indian classical and folk forms and contemporary global genres. Artists blend ragas with jazz or electronic beats, creating a new musical genre that appeals to younger audiences. However, there is concern that excessive commercialization may dilute the authenticity of traditional forms. Nonetheless, fusion music has successfully introduced classical Indian sounds to international audiences, promoting a global appreciation for India’s musical heritage.

Previous Year Questions on Indian Classical Music

1. UPSC CSE Prelims 2019

Question: Which of the following is a characteristic of Carnatic music?
A. Focus on improvisation
B. Emphasis on compositions
C. Use of Persian instruments
D. Popular in North India

Answer: B

Explanation: Carnatic music, a classical form of South India, focuses on structured compositions rather than improvisation.

2. UPSC CSE Mains 2018 (GS Paper 1)

Question: "Examine the role of folk music in shaping India’s diverse cultural traditions."

Answer: Folk music plays a significant role in preserving and expressing India’s cultural diversity. Each region has its unique folk traditions, reflecting local histories, beliefs, and lifestyles. Folk songs often celebrate agricultural cycles, festivals, and historical events, contributing to the social fabric of communities. The oral transmission of folk music ensures that cultural knowledge is passed down through generations, making it a vital component of India’s intangible heritage.