Carnatic music (southern Indian classical music)

Carnatic music is a classical music tradition from Southern India characterized by intricate melodies (melakartas), rhythmic patterns (tala), and expressive vocal or instrumental performances. It emphasizes devotion, improvisation, and emotional expression within a structured framework of scales and compositions. Performers often improvise around a core melody, bringing personal artistry to each rendition. Instruments like the veena, violin, and mridangam are prominent, alongside rich vocal traditions. Rooted in centuries-old religious and cultural practices, Carnatic music aims to evoke spiritual feelings and connect listeners with divine consciousness through complex, ornate melodies and rhythmic cycles.