The correct answer is Neither 1 nor 2. Important Points Hindustani and Carnatic styles are two sub-genres of Indian music. Similarities between both Similar concepts like sruti, raga, swara, taal. Origin of both can be traced to Vedas (Sama Veda) - The oldest Hindu scriptures - and to 13 -14th century. Both monophonic in nature i.e. based around a single melody line, quite elaborate and expressive. However, differences exist in nature, style of singing, instruments and technique involved. Additional Information Hindustani Carnatic North India South India Instruments uses are sitar, tabla, sarangi, Shehnai etc. Instruments used are violin, veena, gottu, mridangam. Chief source is Sangit Ratnakara of Sarangdeva. The chief source is saint Puranasara Das and Carnatic trinity. The number of ragas less. Emphasis on vocal music: songs are composed to be sung. It is not Kirti based, it is raga based. Meant to be performed on singing style when played on instruments. Separate repertoire for instrumental and vocal. Number of ragas is more - 72 ragakarta It has Persian and Islamic influence and is a cultural synthesis of Vedic chanting and folk music. It is Kirti based while Hindustani is raga based. Less rhythmic and less structured. More rhythmically structured and intensive than Hindustani. Accompanist does not play a major role. Accompanists have a much larger role. It can be sung in various styles known as Gharana such as Gwalior Gharana, jodhpur Gharana etc. It is sung in a single style.