Indian classical music is a traditional and highly intricate form of music that has its roots in ancient Indian scriptures and cultural traditions. It is divided into two major traditions: Hindustani classical music and Carnatic classical music.

1. Hindustani Classical Music:

• Region: Primarily practiced in North India.
• Instruments: Sitar, tabla, sarod, santoor, flute, and others.
• Vocal Styles: Dhrupad and Khayal are two main vocal styles. Dhrupad is more ancient, devotional, and focuses on the purity of the ragas, while Khayal is more popular and allows for greater improvisation.
• Ragas and Talas: The music is based on ragas (melodic scales) and talas (rhythmic cycles). Each raga has a specific set of ascending and descending notes, creating a unique mood. Talas provide a rhythmic framework for the music.
• Improvisation: A significant aspect of Hindustani classical music is improvisation, where musicians explore and expand upon the ragas and talas in real-time.

2. Carnatic Classical Music:

• Region: Primarily practiced in South India.
• Instruments: Veena, violin, mridangam, ghatam, flute, and others.
• Vocal Styles: Carnatic music includes various vocal styles like Kriti, Varnam, and Padam. Kritis are compositions that explore ragas and talas.
• Ragas and Talas: Similar to Hindustani classical music, Carnatic music relies on ragas and talas. However, the specific ragas and talas in Carnatic music differ from those in Hindustani music.
• Precision and Structure: Carnatic music places a strong emphasis on precision, with compositions often having intricate rhythmic and melodic patterns.

Common Features of Indian Classical Music:

• Ragas and Talas: Both traditions use a system of ragas and talas to structure their music.
• Devotional Elements: Many compositions in both traditions have devotional themes and are used in religious contexts.

Guru-Shishya Parampara: The tradition of learning is often passed down from a Guru (teacher) to a Shishya (disciple) in a one-on-one learning environment.