If one has to pick something that bedazzled those who ventured into the subcontinent without being familiar about its peculiarities, it would have to be Indian Classical Music. This art has survived, evolved and adapted as it continues to venture through time, but now as the pace at which history is being created is faster than ever before, it remains to be seen whether Indian Classical Music and everything that it has to offer can keep up.

Today, India is open to new cultures to an extent one could not even imagine a few decades ago. Young Indians prefer to listen to music from the West, and fewer people are interested in playing or even listening to traditional Indian Classical Music. As legends who once captivated the hearts of the nation leave this world, one cannot help but wonder whether the Indian Classical Music the world came to love will continue to enthral audiences.

If Indian Classical Music wishes to be a part of the future, it is essential that the Indian government, private organizations and ordinary people continue to support it financially. The media, especially the radio and television stations should continue to give due coverage to this beautiful genre of music. Universities can also play a leading role in the revitalization of Indian Classical Music by holding lectures and providing a platform to both emerging and prominent musicians.

It is imperative for the survival of Indian Classical Music that young people from all over the world be encouraged to not just listen to but also perform it. Schools should train students in this field, and performance schools should also be set up. If these steps are not taken, the musical heritage of India will be lost and we will all have to answer our children when they ask us why we were unable to protect it.