The music of India is one of the oldest unbroken musical traditions in the world. The origin of Indian classical music goes back to the Vedic times, when the Rishis (Hindu saints), deep in meditation, would contemplate different sound vibrations and tonal patterns and the effects it has on consciousness. In later times, temple priests would chant Vedic shlokas (verses) to certain ragas (melodic modes) in the temples.
It was and still is usually and preferably taught orally from guru to disciple, so the student can learn all the details and nuances of the art form. Like other spiritual traditions and paths, it is started at a young age and it requires a lot of dedication and practice to properly learn the art form. A musician belongs to a particulargharana (house) or lineage, each having its own traditions and manner of rendition and style.
Indian classical music is a living thing. There is a loose structure for the musicians to follow and the rest is improvised in the moment. Thus the performance is a more of a creation that creates an experience of presence and meditation for the listener. Thus Indian classical music is more of a spiritual experience rather than just mere entertainment for the enjoyment of the senses.
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