In the 20th century, the classical Indian music has already penetrated the western civilization wherein Ravi Shankar’s sitar was used in one of the Beatles’ song in their Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album.

Today, the general perception for Indian music can be mostly heard in their films. Their films are mostly created with music as the fundamental factor. As part of their passion for music, Indians of modern era has been incorporating all their skills in creating melodic sounds which are said to captivate everyone’s heart who showed intense passion for Indian music. Their poetic compositions of harmonious sounds have created a reputation not only inside their country, but it also extends through their neighboring countries which also influenced the western culture.

During the 16th century, North Indian and South Indian tribes have started creating their own distinct sounds while still incorporating the classical melodies of earlier times. The music of Hindustani on the north was more open to outside influence than the music of southern Carnatic because of the strong Islamic presence. Although Hindustani was more open to outside music, Carnatic are quite skilful in playing foreign instruments.

While modern music continuously invades the planet with its numerous varieties of melody and rhythms to offer, Indian melody still has the overall tone and roots of its culture and classical Indian music. While Indian music offers varieties such as film, pop, and folk music, classical and cultural music has always played an important role in their modern day of living. As far as all Indians know, Indian music originated from Vedict hymns. They perform the hymns by chanting along with the melodic sounds of early Indian stringed instruments as well as drums and cymbals.

The rich history and culture of Indian music can be associated with their spiritual inspiration and cultural expression which have spanned and survived several eras. Indian classical music is said to evolve from the valley where Indus Civilization had first thrived. It has been traced back that during 2nd century BC through 5th century AD, the Dramatic Arts Treatise Natyasastra which was composed by Bharata has started the historic evolution of Indian music. Until then, the music has been widely practiced and was performed significantly during cultural festivities. As the Indian music continuously spread throughout the continent, other culture and religion even extend their patronage for the music. Among them are Muslim noblemen and rulers which are then starting to make a presence in India.