India can boast of an innumerable number of folk music which varies according to locality. Similar to the Indian dances, the nine emotions are the basics to the Indian music. The Indian music has seven musical notes which form the
Ragas. The musicians create numerous variations in feelings with the help of Tala and
Srutis.
The Indian music is mainly divided into two distinct categories, the South Indian or Carnatic music and the North Indian or Hindustani music. Basically, the essential features and underlying philosophy of both the styles are the same. But, the influences of the foreign invasions (by Persians and Arabs) are more evident in the Hindustani form.
Sitar, Veena, Tabala and Shehnai are some of the instruments that have been contributed to the world by India.
[Source ab (48) 30-Nov-04]
