The term Hindustāni Paddhati denotes the Hindustani musical system, prevalent in Northern India, distinguishing itself from the Carnatic style that emerged in the southern regions of the Indian subcontinent. In broad terms, the influence of Persian musical cultures, introduced during the Mughal dynasty, became a defining factor in the distinction between Hindustani and Carnatic genres. Notably, a considerable number of representatives of the Hindustāni Paddhati are musicians of the Islamic faith, seamlessly incorporating Hindu forms of the divine into their performances.

The introduction of certain sounds to Western audiences can be attributed to the Beatles, specifically George Harrison. However, prior to this, violinist Yehudi Menuhin and saxophonist John Coltrane had explored Indian music, particularly the Khayal style, as detailed later. These three musicians, representing the realms of Pop Music, classical music, and Jazz, respectively, were influenced by sitarist Pandit Ravi Shankar in their artistic productions.

A pioneering figure, French musicologist Alain Daniélou, had delved into the study of Indian music three decades earlier. While his approach was more theoretical than performative, his focus was primarily on the Dhrupad style, despite possessing a comprehensive collection of recordings, studies, and manuscripts covering various aspects of Indian music.

Notably, guitarist John McLaughlin is credited as perhaps the first to integrate different styles, introducing Rāga and Tala concepts into Jazz.

Defining the term Rāga poses challenges. It involves the "juxtaposition" of musical notes, adhering to specific rules that stimulate aesthetic enjoyment for the listener. This juxtaposition differs from compositional harmony due to the improvisational and soloistic nature of the music, coupled with the absence of harmony and counterpoint. Precise rules govern the creation of countless Rāgas, distinguishing masters and musicians based on their profound knowledge of these rules.

Key elements in describing a Rāga include its name, rules for ascending and descending movements, presence or absence of note alterations, relationships between tetrachords, "hierarchical" note relationships, numerical nature of the scale, progression of notes, exposure timing, and a distinctive short phrase for immediate recognition.

The term Tāla signifies the rhythmic cycle supporting Rāga exposition. Each Tāla is linked to a specific number of pulsations, introducing a fundamental aesthetic element in Indian music where the cycle's merging points coincide with the end and beginning of all variations to the theme.

North Indian music comprises four styles:

1. Dhrupad
2. Khayāl
3. Thumrī
4. Tappa

Dhrupad, with its name meaning "immovable," embodies a solemn and sober musical form. Originating in the 13th century, it generally consists of four stanzas and focuses on themes of moral rectitude and wisdom.

Khayāl, meaning "joking fantasy," is the most widespread style today. It evolved from Dhrupad, embracing more embellishments and expressive nuances. Three distinct styles within Khayāl are recognized, each marked by its unique characteristics.

The instrumental form of Khayāl involves both a purely instrumental and vocally influenced approach, known as gayaki, where instrumentalists emulate the singing style.

Thumrī, considered an evolution of Khayāl, is shorter in duration, emphasizing ornamentation, and influenced by the object treated in the text and the performer's mood.

Tāppā, born from Punjab's folk music, was elaborated to the levels of classical forms. Compositions known as Shaurī introduced various rhythmic and melodic ornaments.

In conclusion, beyond these classical genres, modern compositions known as Ādhunika Saṁgīta or modern music exist, encompassing film music and pop genres. The challenge lies in categorizing these forms within Western-defined terms that might not precisely capture their essence. Nevertheless, recognizing distinctions between classical and non-classical genres in the Hindu tradition underscores the diversity and richness of Indian musical expressions.