Research Proposal

 Effects of Indian Classical (Hindustani) Music on Mental Health

        Indian classical (hindustani) music, dating back to around 5000-2000 BC, is one of the oldest forms of music. It is a profound art form which combines mastery of musical notes (swaras) with emotional depth and spiritual connection.  Hindustani music uses Raagas, which are scales consisting of specific notes organized in distinct patterns. These invoke different emotions, and are categorized by time of day, and/or season. Recent research suggests that Indian classical music, particularly through its Raaga system, has the potential to reduce stress, regulate mood, and enhance cognitive functions. However, as more of the research on music and its effects on mental health are focused on the Western scene, research on Indian classical music is sparse and anecdotal. Throughout this research, we will look at the extent to which Indian classical music impacts mental health, as well as how can this be integrated into modern therapeutic practices.

To develop a well-rounded understanding of the effects Indian classical music has on mental health, this paper will make use of research gathered from peer-reviewed journals, including interdisciplinary research connecting music, neuroscience, and mental health. As a student of Indian classical music, I have an understanding of the Raagas, and have experienced the effects it has had on mood. Discussions in cultural and academic settings have also highlighted music’s therapeutic effects, however I am curious about its scientific basis. 

A central component of my research will be an interview with my Indian classical music guru (teacher). This interview will provide first-hand insights into the philosophical and practical aspects of Raagas, connecting traditional and personal knowledge, and modern scientific understanding. Through my initial research, I am discovering that music therapy has the ability to regulate brainwaves, reducing stress. However, I am encountering a gap as there is less research that specifically focuses Indian classical music compared to Western music. To address these, I will use cross-culture analyses to compare Indian and Western approaches, and explore the research of Indian music therapists. I plan to utilize direct anecdotals my Indian classical music teacher can provide based on his own experiences, and those of the numerous other students he has. 

The introduction of the paper will provide background information on Indian classical music, and present the thesis and research question. Within my body paragraphs, I will explore existing research on music therapy, focusing on the effects of Raagas on mental health. I will discuss my interview with my guru and analyze qualitative data which can be used to show the therapeutic potential of Raagas. Within my conclusion, I will summarize findings, and address limitations and places of growth. I will also explore how to integrate Indian classical music into modern therapeutic practices. My goal is to identify non-traditional means of improving states of mental being. 

Works Cited:

Leante, L. (2017). Raga and emotion in North Indian Classical Music. In W. F. G. Veenstra & P. B. Basu (Eds.), Rethinking Emotion: Interdisciplinary Perspectives. Oxford University Press. https://academic.oup.com/book/25919/chapter-abstract/193659993


Darbar. (n.d.). Ragatherapy: Indian music's healing powers. Darbar Arts Culture and Heritage Trust. Retrieved from https://www.darbar.org/article/ragatherapy-indian-music-s-healing-powers


Sairam, T. V. (2017). Raga therapy and its effects on mental health. Indian Journal of Psychiatry, 59(4), 459–461.https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5618810/#:~:text=Listening%20to%20certain%20ragas%2C%20for,experience%20of%20hope%20and%20optimism. 








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