In Sikh tradition, which is most prominent in the Punjab, 31 Ragas were
codified for ritual use.
These Sikh hymns are very old versions of Ragas also known in Hindustani
Music, some from Carnatic music.
For example the "court Raga", King of Ragas and Raga of Kings, Darbari
Kanhada, known in Sikh tradition as "Kanra".
The rendering of Sikh ragas is always very devotional, minimalistic and
unpretentiously beautiful.
What separates Sikh music from other North Indian music is the
preference of bowed string instruments. Though Tanpuras are used,
Sarangi, Dilruba etc. are very much in favor, including the spectacular
"Taus", a peacock shaped bowed Sitar, which acts in many ways like a
viola da gamba.
(Which can be seen here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lgme4gUk7Hc)
Also, from what I have seen, Sikh music likes different instrumental
colors in one performance.
Regardless of your belief, this mashup sounds pretty good.
Though interestingly Darbari Kanada/Kanra is most consistent, Sikh,
Hindustani or Carnatic. Many recordings take about the same time (10
min) and follow the same arch.
This too matches exactly, after a Prelude the Sonata starts with the
singer and ends simulataneously.
https://soundcloud.com/tristan-von-neumann/antonio-bertali-sonata-in-d-a-4-raag-darbari-kanra-prof-surinder-singh-sikh-tradition
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