The NCERT Indian Classical Arts Curriculum aims to introduce students of Classes 3 to 8 to India’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. The initiative incorporates Indian music, dance, theatre and visual arts into school education in line with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
NCERT has developed Arts Education textbooks such as Bansuri and Kriti to encourage students to explore different art forms through creative and activity-based learning. These textbooks introduce students to musical concepts, traditional dance forms, storytelling, artistic expressions and regional cultural traditions.
The main objective is to develop creativity, cultural awareness and appreciation of Indian arts rather than provide professional-level training in music or dance.
News in Brief
- NCERT has introduced dedicated Arts Education textbooks, including Bansuri and Kriti.
- The curriculum covers four major areas: Music, Dance, Theatre and Visual Arts.
- Students explore musical concepts such as swar, laya, rhythm and traditional songs.
- Indian classical and regional dance traditions are introduced through age-appropriate activities.
- The initiative promotes creativity, cultural understanding and artistic expression.
NCERT Bansuri and Kriti Textbooks: Curriculum Structure
NCERT has developed separate Arts Education textbooks for different stages of school education.
| Textbook | Class/Stage | Main Focus |
| Bansuri | Preparatory Stage (Classes 3–5) | Introduction to music, dance, theatre and visual arts |
| Kriti | Middle Stage (Classes 6–8) | Creative exploration and understanding of different art forms |
For example, Bansuri–I is the Arts textbook for Class 3, while Kriti–I is designed for Grade 6.
The textbooks are based on the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023. They use activities, illustrations, projects and digital resources to make arts education more engaging.
Four Major Components of NCERT Arts Education
The NCERT curriculum covers four important areas of artistic learning.
| Art Form | What Students Explore |
| Music | Songs, musical instruments, rhythm and musical traditions |
| Dance | Body movements, gestures, rhythm and dance traditions |
| Theatre | Storytelling, acting, stage performance and expression |
| Visual Arts | Drawing, painting, colours, crafts and creative designs |
This integrated approach allows students to experience different forms of art instead of studying them only as theoretical subjects.
1. Indian Classical Music
Students are introduced to the basic elements of Indian music and traditional musical practices.
Some important concepts include:
- Swar: Musical notes or sounds.
- Laya: Speed or tempo of music.
- Raga: A melodic framework in Indian classical music.
- Taal: A rhythmic cycle.
- Shabd: Words used in songs and musical compositions.
- Shloka: A traditional Sanskrit verse.
Students also explore traditional songs, musical instruments and music from different regions of India.
The objective is to develop an understanding of musical expression and India’s diverse musical heritage.
2. Indian Classical Dance Forms
The curriculum introduces students to major Indian classical dance traditions and their cultural significance.
The eight major classical dance forms of India are:
| Classical Dance Form | Associated State or Region |
| Bharatanatyam | Tamil Nadu |
| Kathak | North India |
| Kathakali | Kerala |
| Kuchipudi | Andhra Pradesh |
| Manipuri | Manipur |
| Mohiniyattam | Kerala |
| Odissi | Odisha |
| Sattriya | Assam |
3. Theatre and Traditional Storytelling
Theatre education introduces students to the art of storytelling and stage performance.
Activities may include:
- Storytelling through words and expressions.
- Acting and role-playing.
- Improvisation and creative performance.
- Understanding characters and situations.
- Participating in group performances.
These activities encourage students to communicate confidently and express their ideas creatively.
4. Visual Arts
Visual Arts help students express their imagination through different materials and techniques.
Students explore activities such as:
- Drawing and painting.
- Colour mixing and pattern creation.
- Paper crafts and creative designs.
- Exploring traditional Indian art forms.
- Making artistic projects using different materials.
The objective is to improve observation, imagination and creative thinking.
Ancient Indian Texts and Traditional Knowledge
Indian art and performing traditions have developed through centuries of cultural and intellectual contributions. Several traditional Sanskrit texts are associated with music, dance, theatre and artistic expression.
Important examples include:
| Ancient Text | Associated Subject |
| Natyashastra | Drama, dance, music and performing arts |
| Brihaddeshi | Indian music and musical traditions |
| Sangita Damodara | Music and performing arts |
| Abhinaya Darpanam | Dance expressions, gestures and movements |
Natyashastra
Traditionally attributed to Bharata Muni, the Natyashastra is an important Sanskrit treatise on Indian performing arts. It discusses drama, dance, music, expressions and stage performance.
Brihaddeshi
Traditionally associated with Matanga Muni, Brihaddeshi is an important text in the history of Indian music and musical traditions.
Sangita Damodara
Sangita Damodara is a traditional work associated with music and performing arts.
Abhinaya Darpanam
Traditionally attributed to Nandikeshwara, Abhinaya Darpanam discusses dance expressions, body movements and hand gestures.
These traditional knowledge sources help explain the historical foundations of India’s artistic traditions.
Teaching Approach: Learning Through Activities
The NCERT Arts Education curriculum focuses on experiential and activity-based learning.
Instead of limiting students to textbook explanations, it encourages participation in practical activities.
Some examples include:
- Abhinaya: Expressing emotions through facial expressions and body language.
- Hasta Mudras: Exploring hand gestures used in Indian dance.
- Storytelling: Communicating stories through words, movements and expressions.
- Dance Movements: Learning basic steps, postures, jumps and rhythmic movements.
- Music Activities: Singing songs and understanding beats and rhythm.
- Creative Projects: Combining music, theatre, dance and visual arts in group activities.
This approach helps students develop creativity, confidence, communication and teamwork.
Role of NEP 2020 in Arts Education
The National Education Policy 2020 promotes holistic and multidisciplinary education. It emphasises connecting classroom learning with India’s cultural heritage, knowledge systems and creative traditions.
The National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023 further provides the curricular direction for Arts Education.
The NCERT textbooks reflect this approach by including music, theatre, dance and visual arts as important areas of learning.
For instance, the Bansuri–I textbook for Class 3 explains that Arts Education includes these four components and recommends dedicated learning time for them.
Benefits of Introducing Indian Classical Arts in Schools
The inclusion of Indian arts in school education can provide several educational and cultural benefits.
- Cultural Awareness: Students become familiar with India’s classical and regional art traditions.
- Creativity: Music, dance, theatre and visual arts encourage imagination and creative thinking.
- Communication Skills: Storytelling and performances help students express their thoughts and emotions.
- Understanding Heritage: Students learn about traditional art forms and India’s cultural history.
- Teamwork: Group projects and performances promote cooperation and collaboration.
- Holistic Development: Artistic activities support emotional, social and creative development alongside academic learning.
Conclusion
The NCERT Indian Classical Arts Curriculum is an important step towards integrating India’s artistic heritage into school education. Through textbooks such as Bansuri and Kriti, students get opportunities to explore music, dance, theatre and visual arts.
Aligned with NEP 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023, the initiative promotes creativity, cultural awareness and experiential learning. Its primary aim is to help students appreciate India’s diverse artistic traditions while supporting their overall development.
