What is the Difference Between Carnatic Music and Hindustani Music?

Carnatic and Hindustani music are the two primary sub-genres of Indian classical music, each with its own distinct style and characteristics. Here are the key differences between the two:

1. Origin: Hindustani music predates Carnatic music in terms of origin. Hindustani music originated during the Vedic period, while Carnatic music was formed during the Bhakti movement in the 15th and 16th centuries.
2. Regional Popularity: Hindustani music is popular in North India, while Carnatic music is more prevalent in South India.
3. Influences: Hindustani music combines Islamic customs, Vedic chants, and Persian Musiqu-e-Assil music, reflecting Persian and Islamic influences in North India. Carnatic music, on the other hand, is considered a purer form, evolving from ancient Hindu traditions.
4. Ragas: Hindustani music has 6 major ragas, while Carnatic music has 72 ragas.
5. Instruments: Hindustani music typically uses instruments like Tabla, Sarangi, Sitar, and Santoor, while Carnatic music uses Veena, Mridangam, and Mandolin.
6. Vocal vs. Instrumental: Carnatic music emphasizes vocal music, with most compositions sung in the gayaki style. Hindustani music, however, has a separate repertoire for vocal and instrumental, with various instruments designed to accompany the singer.
7. Raga Essays (Alapanas): In Hindustani music, raga essays (alapanas) are elaborated from note to note, while in Carnatic music, raga essays are elaborated from phrase to phrase.
8. Swara (Pitch) vs. Laya (Rhythm): The core of Hindustani music is the Swara (pitch), while the core of Carnatic music is Laya (rhythm).
9. Taals: Hindustani music has 12 taals, while Carnatic music has 7 core taals.
10. Mathematics vs. Inspiration: Carnatic compositions are structured based on pure mathematics, whereas Hindustani music is led by inspiration from the surroundings.

Despite these differences, both Hindustani and Carnatic music share commonalities, such as the use of Sanskrit language scripts in their evolution and the presence of rhythmic beats or 'bol' demonstrated with the help of claps, finger counting, and swaying of the hands.

Comparative Table: Carnatic Music vs Hindustani Music

Carnatic and Hindustani music are two distinct styles of Indian classical music. Here is a table highlighting the differences between them:

Carnatic music originated in South India and has 72 ragas, while Hindustani music, which originated in North India, has 6 major ragas. Carnatic music primarily uses indigenous instruments such as Veena, Mridangam, and Mandolin, whereas Hindustani music incorporates instruments like Tabla, Sarangi, Sitar, and Santoor, which have Persian and Arab influences. Carnatic music focuses on more devotional themes and has a more homogenous style, whereas Hindustani music is influenced by Iranian and Afghan cultures. The two styles also differ in the way they present compositions, with Carnatic music primarily using Kritis and Hindustani music using Dhrupad, Khayal, Thumri, Dadra, and Gazals.