Dhrupad is the most ancient form of Indian Classical vocal and instrumental music. For centuries, it has been practised all over India with regional differences in presentation, compositions and techniques. Today aspects of the Dhrupad heritage can still be traced in the main vocal and instrumental styles of India but the pure Dhrupad tradition continues. Above all, the spiritual and contemplative nature of the music is maintained as it was in the past. Dhrupad's purpose has always been for worship rather than for pure entertainment and the atmosphere created by the music is one of beauty and serenity. In fact, the word Dhrupad is derived from ' Dhruva ', the steadfast evening star and ' Pada ' meaning poetry.

The fascinating journey of Dhrupad begins with the primordial sound of OM – from the god Shiva himself. From this sacred beginning came the great tradition of Sam Veda , the chanting of ancient Sanskrit texts. Then, from the singing of Sufis and saints in ancient temples, the music traveled to stately courts and eventually to today's world of concerts and recordings. Despite all the ups and downs of this journey, the majestic, sacred atmosphere of the music's earliest roots remains.

Dhrupad is characterized by a purity of tone and raga. Its architectural beauty, systematic development, spaciousness, theatre and beauty of sound offer a sense of peace and contemplation to the listener.

Dhrupad is performed in two parts - Alap and Bandish.

In alap , the singer uses syllables taken from Sanskrit mantra which add texture to the notes while exploring microtones and overtones. The raga is slowly and methodically developed in a meditative mode. The speed of alap increases with the use of an accelerating rhythmic pulse that builds to a point, where the melodic patterns literally dance in space.

The bandish is a short poem accompanied by the pakhawaj (a double-headed horizontal drum). The poem is sung using melodic and rhythmic improvisations. The intricate patterns and improvisations woven by the pakhawaj player and the singer create a dialogue often playing against or complimenting one another.