The western approach to modern composition is often described as rule-based and highly conceptual, while the Indian approach is supposed to be model-based and empirical. However, this simplistic dichotomy leads to ethnocentric biases, notably the assumption that creativity is a salient feature of Euro-American culture while non-western cultures are perceived as stagnant and "traditional", thereby meaning unable to innovate.

The challenge of contemporary art forms in non-western cultures is to set up interactive environments in which artists may be able to use and expand their creative potential without being confronted with procedures exclusively elaborated in a foreign culture.

In its attempt to link musical practice with theory (the handling of musical objects and compositional processes), computational musicology is probably the unavoidable "interface" between musicians and software designers. The remaining question is how this interaction may be encouraged in the present Indian social-cultural context.