Indian classical music is broadly divided into two primary streams based on geographical regions and stylistic variations.
The stream of music originating and predominantly practiced in the northern parts of the Indian subcontinent is referred to as the North Indian stream.
This North Indian stream of music is widely and commonly known by the name Hindustani classical music.
The other major stream, prevalent in Southern India, is known as Carnatic music.
Thus, the alternative and widely accepted name for the North Indian stream of music is Hindustani.