Question

Which of the following statements accurately reflects the impact of Turkic influence on Indian music during the medieval period?

• A. The Turks discouraged local musical traditions and replaced them with purely Persian styles.
• B. Turkic influence led to the introduction of new instruments like the rabab and sarangi, and figures like Amir Khusrau played a key role in shaping a blended musical tradition.
• C. Indian music remained unaffected by external influences during this period.
• D. Musical developments were limited to royal courts and had no connection to spiritual movements like Sufism or Bhakti.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Turkic influence led to the introduction of new instruments like the rabab and sarangi, and figures like Amir Khusrau played a key role in shaping a blended musical tradition.

Turkic Influence: The Turks inherited a rich musical tradition from the Arabs and introduced new instruments such as the rabab and sarangi to India. Cultural Synthesis: The Sufi and Bhakti movements further enriched and popularized this evolving musical style. Key Figures: Amir Khusrau and Sufi saint Pir Bodhan were pioneers in shaping this musical tradition. Perso-Arabic Influence: The arrival of the Turks introduced Perso-Arabic ragas like aiman, ghora, and sanam into Indian music. Literary Contributions: During the reign of Firuz Tughlaq, the Indian classical text Raga Darpan was translated into Persian. Royal Patronage: Raja Man Singh of Gwalior, a great patron of music, incorporated elements of Muslim musical traditions into his work Man Kautuhal.