History - Amir Khusro

Allaudin Khilji (1296 A.D - 1316 A.D) had a court minister named Hazrat Amir Khusro who was highly gifted in music with an exceptionally innovative mind. To put it in brief, his contribution to Hindustani Classical Music is unmatched. It is said that he created the Sitar (probably inspired by the Veena and other string instruments of Persia). The modification of the Pakhawaj into the Tabla is also credited to him.

It has also been said that Amir Khusro introduced many styles of singing including Khayal, Tarana, Ghazal and Qawali. He is credit for some most popular Ragas like Yaman, Poorya and Poorvi.

Another musician, Nayak Gopal, in the court if Allaudin Khilji, is remembered for his musical talent. Tradition says that he invented several Ragas including Pilu and Sarang.