India as Known to Panini: A Study of the Cultural Material in the Ashtadhyayi c8.s14.1

c8.s14.1

The tradition of the musical art in India is of high antiquity. In the sculptures at Bharhut and Sanchi both vocal and instrumental musicians are found frequently represented. In the *Arthaśāstra* of Kauṭilya music and musicians are often mentioned. In the *Jātaka* literature music forms a chief item of social and individual entertainment. Pāṇini's *Ashṭādhyāyī* which in point reflects an even earlier stage of culture, shows an equally full acquaintance with the various branches of the musical art. Besides referring to vocalists and instrumentalists, the *Ashṭādhyāyī* also mentions orchestral bands including singers to the accompaniment of *vīṇā*, one of the most popular instruments in ancient Indian music.