Shamit Khemka

Dozens of ethnic groups, distinctive cultural traditions, hundreds of languages and dialects and music for comforting the soul and soothing the senses of the listeners! Yes, you guessed it right; I am referring to India – the land of unity in diversity! Music, as it is said, has the healing powers besides just keeping you entertained…

The diversity and richness of Indian music makes it even more acceptable and lovable to different audience groups. While the classical music renders a soothing feeling that originated in the Vedic India centuries ago, the folk music brings the flavor of the various diverse lands of the country. Compelling you to dance to its dynamic beats, the modern Indian music is a perfect amalgamation of the true Indian classical music and music from other parts of the country as well as world.

While the modulations and transitions over the centuries have obviously impacted the Indian music, making it even richer than ever, the Indian classical music still enthralls the souls of a vast majority of music lovers not only in India but also all over the world. The very first known reference of Indian music is found in Samaveda – one of the great four Vedas (the ancient Hindu scriptures). Samaveda basically has the enchanting verses, which have been rearranged and transposed to suit various rituals. The verses are used even today to perform various rituals. It’s quite solacing to listen to these verses at times, especially when you are stressed out!

From verses to Indi-Pop, Indian music is constantly evolving and getting richer! While the classical style of music encompasses Hindustani Music, and Carnatic Music, the different genres of Indian music encompass traditional, religious (verses), patriotic, sufi (Qawwali, Bauls, etc), tribal and more.

Whether it’s the Bauls of Bengal, Bhangra – the lively music and dance having its origin in Punjab, Dandiya – the dance oriented music of Gujarat, Ganasangeet – the songs that are generally sung in chorus and are mainly patriotic in nature, Haryanvi Music – the lively music of Haryana, and Lavani of Maharashtra, or the full throated and soulful music of Rajasthan Indian traditional music reaches far beyond just the ears. It touches the soul!