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The first traces of the development of the art forms of music in Varanasi were formed in the Maurya period. Later in non-vedic literature we come across two forms of music, one known as Marg and the other as Deshi. During the period when Sanskrit no more remained the spoken language of the people, these two forms of music must have continued to be patronized by the kings and the people alike. Some of the vocal forms of music which attained distinction and came to be known by a style typical to Varanasi are Bhairavi, Thumri, Dhruvapad, Khayal, Tappa and Holi. Similarly, Shahnai a wind instrument, Pakhawaj and Tabla among percussion instruments and Kathak as a dance form have come to be distinguished for their style as developed in this city.