The albums that define
hindustani classical music.
Our picks for where to start with hindustani classical music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top Hindustani classical music artists
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The hindustani classical music essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
Ravi Shankar
Live: Ravi Shankar at the Monterey International Pop Festival
A mesmerizing blend of intricate ragas and rhythmic tabla, transporting listeners into the depths of Indian classical music.
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Ravi Shankar
Three Ragas
'Three Ragas' serves as a foundational entry point, highlighting the core aspects of Indian classical music in just three pieces. Each raga presents a different mood and technique, illustrating Shankar's skill and the genre's emotional richness.
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Zakir Hussain
Making Music
This album exemplifies the blend of traditional Indian elements with contemporary jazz influences, offering a well-rounded introduction to Hussain's style. Its collaborative nature allows listeners to witness how Hussain interacts musically with others, enhancing their understanding of his artistic vision.
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Shreya Ghoshal
Humnasheen
A lush blend of haunting melodies and emotive vocals that transcend traditional boundaries, exploring the depths of love and longing.
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Shreya Ghoshal
Mukhor Porag
A tender exploration of love and longing expressed through lush melodies and emotive vocal performances.
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Sonu Nigam
The Music Room
A vibrant fusion of traditional Indian sounds with contemporary pop sensibilities, showcasing a diverse array of emotional themes.
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Sonu Nigam
Mausam
A vibrant blend of Indian classical and contemporary pop that showcases emotive melodies and intricate arrangements.
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Asha Bhosle
You've Stolen My Heart – Songs From R.D. Burman’s Bollywood
Asha Bhosle's vocals weave through vibrant Bollywood soundscapes, blending traditional melodies with contemporary rhythms.
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Sultan Khan
Piya Basanti
A rich tapestry of emotive vocals and intricate ragas that bridge traditional Hindustani classical music with contemporary sensibilities.
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K. S. Chithra
Ustad & the Divas
A vibrant fusion of traditional Indian melodies and contemporary pop rhythms, showcasing a diverse range of vocal styles.
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Hariprasad Chaurasia
Call of the Valley
A serene exploration of Hindustani classical music, blending intricate ragas with soulful improvisation across lush instrumentals.
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Ram Narayan
Rag Lalit
A profound exploration of Rāg Lalit, melding intricate melodies with emotive depth that resonates across time and space.
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By decade
Where Hindustani classical music landed in each era.