Indian Devotional Music

Sufi Kalam: The Mystical Music of Kashmir

Sufi Kalam is a characteristic genre of devotional and mystical music belonging to the Kashmir Valley.

Primary Reference: Standard Educational Reference

Archived:

Updated:

'Sufi Kalam', a type of devotional music, is characteristic of:

[U.P. P.C.S. (Pre) 1994]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Sufi Kalam represents the spiritual synthesis of Persian mystical poetry and the indigenous melodic traditions of the Himalayan valley.

Authentic Source Evidence


Sufi Kalam (also known as Sufiana Mausiqi) is the traditional devotional music of Kashmir.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Option B is Correct: It was brought to the region in the 14th century by Sufi saints like Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani.

  • Instruments: It prominently uses the Santoor (a 100-stringed dulcimer), which is iconic to Kashmiri music.

  • Language: It is sung in Kashmiri and Persian, focusing on themes of divine love and union.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What is the iconic instrument used in Sufi Kalam?"

    The Santoor, a stringed instrument that is played with small wooden mallets.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Sufi Kalam acts as the musical soul of Kashmir, preserving the region's pluralistic 'Kashmiriyat' through shared spiritual melodies."

    Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

    Sufism 3

    Analysing authentic U.P. P.C.S. (Pre)previous year questions is non-negotiable for serious aspirants. Thoroughly decoding past exam trends related to Indian Devotional Music helps you understand the examiner's mindset. Mastering specific entities like Sufi Kalam and Kashmir music builds the analytical intuition needed to clear the exam. Practice Previous Year Questions here →

    UPSC Question Bank | Verified
    Live Archive Status