Music of India
The esraj, also spelled as esraaj, is a captivating stringed instrument steeped in the cultural heritage of the Indian subcontinent. Originating approximately 300 years ago, it finds its roots primarily in North India and Pakistan, particularly in Punjab, where it is integral to Sikh music and Hindustani classical compositions, as
Music of India
Sattriya, a classical dance form originating from the northeastern state of Assam, holds a significant place in India’s rich cultural heritage. Rooted in the devotional practices of the region, Sattriya was traditionally performed by monks in the Sattras, or monasteries, as a means of worship and storytelling. Characterized by
Music of India
The plain white tag around the neck of the tanpura says simply: 1890, Miraj, Ustad Abdul Karim Khan. Around it, many more tanpuras stand tall, perched on their protuberant bases like awkward sentinels of sound. Their tags tell their respective origin stories – their scale, celebrated owners, faceless craftsmen with single
Music of India
Ragas are the soul of Indian classical music, each possessing its own distinctive character, mood, and tonal framework. Comprising a set of ascending and descending musical notes, ragas dictate the melodic structure and improvisational framework for musicians. Rooted in ancient scriptures and passed down through generations via oral tradition, ragas
Music of India
In the realm of North Indian classical music, there exists an instrument that holds a special place, not only for its melodious tones but also for its cultural significance and emotive power. The Shehnai, with its hauntingly beautiful sound, has captivated audiences for centuries, weaving its magic in ceremonial and
Music of India
Indian classical music stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Indian subcontinent, characterized by its intricate melodies, complex rhythms, and deep spiritual significance. Within this expansive landscape, two primary classical music traditions have flourished: Hindustani and Carnatic music. Despite sharing common roots, these traditions have evolved
Music of India
The sour golugu berries/And shark fish and mullet/When I eat the fish you appear in my dreams/My dark and handsome sweetheart/You bring such a good catch. In 1938, a delightfully piquant Telugu folk song, titled Golakondoyi, made its debut on All India Radio, and as we
Music of India
Hindustani classical music, with its intricate melodies and emotive expressions, has been shaped over centuries by the diverse cultural and regional influences of the Indian subcontinent. At the heart of this musical tradition lies the concept of gharana, or musical lineage, which serves as a repository of knowledge, technique, and
Music of India
Derived from the Sanskrit word “alankara,” meaning ornament or decoration, alankar represents a fundamental aspect of Indian classical music. It encompasses any pattern of musical decoration created by musicians within or across tones, serving to enhance the beauty and expressiveness of a composition. From fluid meends to rapid murkis, alankar
Music of India
Mohiniyattam, a captivating classical dance form, finds its origins deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. At the heart of its narrative lies the story of Mohini, the mesmerizing female avatar of Lord Vishnu, the preserver in Hindu cosmology. According to ancient texts and legends, Mohini emerges during a celestial battle between
Music of India
Thumri, a quintessential genre of Indian music, beckons listeners into a realm where poetry, melody, and emotion intertwine to create a captivating tapestry of sound. Derived from the Hindi verb “thumuknaa,” meaning “to walk with a dancing gait,” thumri embodies a unique vocal style that resonates with the rich cultural
Music of India
During the 66th Annual Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 4, Zakir Hussain, along with flautist Rakesh Chaurasia, graciously accepted the “Global Music Performance” award for their outstanding contribution to the composition “Pashto.” The duo also secured another victory for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album
