History & evolution of raags across the centuries
Raag Timeline
From the Vedic jatis to Hindi film music — trace how Indian classical raags evolved across millennia of musical tradition.
Before 1000 CE
Ancient Period
Raags rooted in the Gandharva Veda tradition, Natyashastra of Bharata Muni, and early Jatis. These forms predate formal thaat classification and retain the most ancient melodic characteristics.
Representative Raags
1000 – 1500 CE
Medieval Period
The age of the Sangita Ratnakara and early court music. Shahjahan-era compositions began merging Dhrupad with Persian influences, codifying the raag system into recognisable form.
Representative Raags
1500 – 1700 CE
Mughal Era
Court patronage under Akbar, Jahangir and Shah Jahan gave rise to Khyal and a flowering of new raags. Tansen, the legendary vocalist, is credited with creating or popularising many forms of this period.
Representative Raags
1700 CE – Present
Modern Era
The 20th century brought radio, recordings, and Hindi film music — exposing raags to mass audiences. Composers like Ravi Shankar and Vilayat Khan introduced new forms while preserving classical rigour. Film music created hybrid raags that blend multiple thaats.
Representative Raags