Abstract

Bowed instruments have a long-standing heritage within the diverse genres of Indian music, with the violin ultimately rising to a position of pre-eminence. Although the violin is foreign in origin, it has been deeply assimilated into Indian musical culture and is now regarded as an integral part of many traditions. Although the origin of many bowed instrument are often linked to India, there is currently no concrete historical evidence to support claims that the violin itself evolved here. The violin is generally believed to have entered India through foreign traders, especially the Portuguese, and gradually gained prominence in South Indian classical music while also finding a place in various folk traditions. This paper explores the unexplored historical roots that traces the origin, adaptation, and integration of the violin into Indian music from an Indian perspective.