Contribution of Sangeet Ratnakar in the Development of Indian Music A Study

Indian music is one of the worlds most ancient and rich cultural traditions, which has developed continuously from the Vedic period to the modern era. Many scholars and texts have contributed to this development, among which Sangeet Ratnakar, composed by Sharangadeva in the 13th century, holds special significance. Sharangadeva himself belonged to a learned Brahmin family from Kashmir and was associated with the court of the Yadava ruler King Sindhana. During his time, Indian culture was going through a transitional phase ancient classical traditions were still influential, regional styles were evolving, and foreign (especially Persian) influences were gradually entering music and the arts. In such a context, Sharangadeva created Sangeet Ratnakar by synthesizing various musical traditions.