"Without
music life would be an error." Music is one such superpower that can
transform any soul. A writer has finely pointed out that what water bath is
to body, music is to the soul. A fine blend of music carries us to a world
which seems no less than a fairy tale world. India is one such land that is
blessed with great musical maestros who with their great music produces
effects that are hypnotisisng. From Tansen, Baiju Bawara to Pd. Jasraj and
Bhimsen Joshi, times have changed, but what hasn't is the power of immortal
music that has kept flowing.
Power of Music
Music in India has a long and significant history. Music here has several
varieties like folk, popular, pop and classical music. Indian classical
music that includes Carnatic and Hindustani music has a long history.
Classical music in India is a source of religious inspiration, cultural
expression and pure entertainment. Apart from classical music Filmi, Bhangra
and become quite popular in India.
Classical Music and its forms
Indian classical music is one of the most complicated and complexed systems
of music based on the eight notes - SA, RE, GA, MA, PA, DHA, NI, SA. The two
main forms of Indian Classical music are: Carnatic Music and Hindustani
Music.
Carnatic Music - This form of music is very melodic and have many
variations. Here the main emphasis is on the vocal music. Many songs are
composed to be sung. Even when compositions are played on instruments it is
seen that they are performed in a singing style. The whole of Carnatic Music
rests on 'raga' (melodic formula) and "tala" (rhythmic circles).
Hindustani Music - This form of music flourished in northern India.
Like Carnatic music it is also based on Ragas and Taals.
Rabindra Sangeet - Rabindra Nath Tagore has been the man behind the
Rabindra Sangeet. He wrote around 2000 songs, which has now begun to be
called by Bengalis as Rabindar Sangeet. This form of music is very much
influenced by Hindustani Music.
Folk Music
Folk Music is also known as Traditional Music. Folk Music in India follows
a semi classical touch. It still hold great musical importance in India,
specially in the villages of India.
Dances of India
Dance is a visual art form where the various movements of the body are used
to communicate something. Dances in India have always enjoyed a significant
position since ancient times. It is art and a source of great pleasure.
'Mudras' or hand formations play a pivotal role in the various dance forms.
Classical
Dance Forms in India
India is a land blessed with several dance forms. Every classical dance
form in India is highly influenced by the region from which they originates.
Bharatnatyam - This classical dance form has originated in the state
of Tamil Nadu and is very popular not only here but also worldwide.
Kathak - This is the major dance form of Uttar Pradesh.
Kathakali - This is a dance form of Kerala.
Kuchipudi - A popular dance form of Andhra Pradesh.
Manipuri - This is well known dance form of Manipur.
Mohiniattam - Kerala is also popular for its this dance form apart
from Kathakali.
Odissi - This is a popular dance form of Orissa.
