Page 106 - NITI - Navigating Indian Traditions in Industry

6.1 Principles of Indian Music: The Soul of Indian Tradition

Indian classical music, rooted deeply in ancient traditions, is a sophisticated and
intricate system that has evolved over millennia. The principles of Indian classical
music are encapsulated in two main branches: Hindustani (North Indian) and Carnatic
(South Indian) music. Both branches, while distinct in their stylistic elements, share a
common foundation in the ancient texts and traditions.

1. Nada (Sound): The essence of all music, Nada is the vibration of sound that
resonates within the human soul. Indian music emphasizes Nada as the medium
through which spiritual enlightenment can be achieved. It is believed that the correct
rendering of musical notes can lead to spiritual awakening and inner peace.

2. Shruti (Microtones): Shruti represents the smallest audible difference in pitch
and is considered the basic unit of sound in Indian music. There are 22 Shrutis in an
octave, and they form the basis for the seven primary notes (Swaras) in Indian music.

3. Swaras (Notes): The seven Swaras—Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni—are the building
blocks of Indian music. These notes can be modified to produce the flat (Komal) or
sharp (Tivra) versions, allowing for a wide range of expression in compositions.

4. Raga (Melodic Frameworks): A Raga is a specific arrangement of Swaras that
defines a melodic structure, capable of evoking specific emotions or moods. Each
Raga has a distinct set of rules regarding its use of notes, time of performance, and
mood.
5. Tala (Rhythm): Tala is the rhythmic aspect of Indian music. It is a cycle of beats
that provides the temporal structure for the music. The most common Talas include
Teentaal (16 beats), Jhaptaal (10 beats), and Ektaal (12 beats).
6. Alankara (Ornamentation): Alankara refers to the embellishments and
ornaments in music that enhance the beauty of the melody. These include Meend
(gliding between notes), Gamak (vibrato), and Murki (grace notes).
7. Rasa (Emotional Essence): The concept of Rasa is central to Indian classical
music. Each Raga is designed to evoke a specific Rasa, such as Shringara (love),
Veera (valor), or Karuna (compassion). The performer’s ability to evoke the intended
Rasa is a key measure of their skill.
8. Saptak (Octave): The Saptak is the sequence of seven notes in an octave. The
three primary Saptaks are Mandra (low), Madhya (middle), and Tara (high). Mastery
of the Saptak allows musicians to explore a wide range of tonal expressions.

6.2 Classification of Indian Music into Two Branches

Indian classical music is classified into two main branches: Hindustani and Carnatic
music. Both branches, while unique in their characteristics, share a common foundation
rooted in the Vedic traditions and have evolved through centuries of cultural and

92