The state is known for pioneering the development of musical instruments, which find mention in ancient Sanskrit literature. Music is also known to have flourished in the Gupta Period, and much of the musical tradition in Uttar Pradesh was developed during the period.
The musicians Tansen and Baiju Bawra, two of the Navaratnas (Nine Jewels) of the court of the Mughal emperor Akbar, are still immortal for their contribution in the field of music.
The sitar and the tabla, the two most popular instruments of Indian music, were developed in the region during this period. The Kathak style of classical dance, which originated in Uttar Pradesh in the 18th century as a devotional dance in the temples of Vrindavan and Mathura, is the most popular form of classical dance in northern India.
There are also local songs and dances of the countryside. The songs and dances of the countryside are significant features of local culture. They include the kajari of Mirzapur and Varanasi, the Alha Udal, a folk epic, and various other village dances. |
