The medieval period in Indian music is a significant era that greatly contributed to the present musical style of India. During this period, several important developments and influences shaped the music landscape, leading to the emergence of various genres and styles that are still prevalent today.
1. Hindustani and Carnatic Music Traditions:
- The division of Indian classical music into two primary traditions, Hindustani and Carnatic, solidified during this period.
- Hindustani music developed in the North and was influenced by Persian and Islamic cultures.
- Carnatic music thrived in the South and maintained a strong connection to ancient Vedic traditions.
2. Bhakti Movement:
- The Bhakti movement, which emphasized devotion to a personal deity, had a profound impact on Indian music.
- Saints and poets like Kabir, Tulsidas, Mirabai, and others used music as a means of expressing their religious devotion.
- Devotional songs known as "bhajans" and "kirtans" emerged as popular genres during this period.
3. Development of Ragas and Talas:
- The concept of ragas, melodic frameworks of improvisation, became central to Indian classical music.
- Ragas were formalized, categorized, and extensively explored.
- Talas, rhythmic cycles used in composition and performance, also saw significant development.
4. Contribution of Musicians:
- Many renowned musicians left an indelible mark on Indian music during this period.
- Tansen, Baiju Bawra, and Swami Haridas were influential figures in Hindustani music, while Thyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar, and Shyama Shastri were prominent composers in Carnatic music.
- Talented instrumentalists also emerged, showcasing virtuosity on various instruments.
5. Royal Patronage and Music Centers:
- Indian music enjoyed royal patronage during the medieval period.
- Kings, nawabs, and zamindars extended financial support to musicians, leading to the establishment of important musical centers like Gwalior, Jaipur, Lucknow, Tanjore, and more.
- These centers attracted talented musicians and contributed to the dissemination of musical knowledge and traditions.
6. Exchange with Persian and Sufi Music:
- As a result of cultural exchanges and trade, there was a mutual exchange of musical ideas between Indian and Persian music.
- This led to the adoption of certain musical instruments like the sitar and tabla, as well as the influence of Persian ragas on Indian music.
- Sufi music also had a significant impact, particularly in the Qawwali genre.
7. Influence on Folk and Regional Music:
- The diverse musical developments of the medieval period greatly influenced folk and regional music traditions across India.
- Many classical ragas and talas found their way into folk melodies and rhythms.
- Regional styles like Rabindra Sangeet in Bengal, Thumri in North India, and Bhavageet in Maharashtra emerged during this period.
In summary, the medieval period in Indian music was a time of great musical creativity, evolution, and diversity. The emergence of Hindustani and Carnatic traditions, the devotional music of the Bhakti movement, the development of ragas and talas, and royal patronage all contributed to shaping the present-day musical style of India.