Hindustani Classical Music is a North Indian classical music tradition that has been evolving since the twelfth century C.E., in what is now northern India and Pakistan, and also Bangladesh, Nepal and Afghanistan. The tradition was born from a cultural synthesis of several musical streams: the vedic chant tradition, the equally ancient Persian tradition of Musiqi-e assil, and also folk traditions prevalent in the region. The terms North Indian Classical Music or Shâstriya Sangeet are also occasionally used. Northern India shares with the south the use of ragas (melodic frameworks for improvisation and composition), the rhythmic principles of tala (cyclic metric patterns sometimes of great complexity), and the practice of nonmetric, rhythmically “free” improvisation. Although vocal music plays an important role, instrumental music is more important in Hindustani music than it is in Karnatak; there are some purely instrumental forms, such as the theme with variations known as gat. This book attempts to present a detailed and comprehensive discussion of the fundamental concepts and aspects of Hindustani classical music. The book will be useful to all those who wish to learn and acquire knowledge of Hindustani classical music. It will be of interest to all practitioners of Hindustani classical music.

Kanishk Patel is a celebrated musician and scholar in Hindustani Classical Music, recognized for his expertise in vocal traditions and musicology. His research interests encompass raga theory, musical aesthetics, and historical perspectives on Indian classical music. Patel's contributions include scholarly articles and performances that elucidate the intricate melodies and spiritual dimensions of Hindustani music, enriching cultural understanding and appreciation.