Nepal is a country with diversity. People from different ethnic groups live in Nepal. Every group has their own culture, language, music and musical instruments. Sarangi is one of the traditional musical instruments of the Gandarbha or Gaine caste.  This community played instruments with narrative tales and folk songs. With time and change in the music sector, it has become popular in other music genres such as Nepali, rock and film music.

The price of sarangi in Nepal ranges from NPR 2,000 to NPR 5,000 depending upon the various things like wood used and other things.

Construction of Sarangi

Sarangi was found by the Gandarbha community. Traditionally, it is made up of a single piece of wood from a tree that is easily available. Most of them are saaj, sisau, khirro, saur, and lankuri. The upper and lower chambers, where the bridge rests, are generally covered with the dried skin of sheep or goat. The strings of the neck are tied with tuning pegs.

The sarangi consists of four strings. The original strings were made up of sheep intestine. However, these days, badminton strings, nylon and steel strings have generally replaced gut strings. The bow was traditionally strung with horse tail-hair, but in modern days, nylon bowstrings are common. The size of the Sarangi differs according to the players’ preference.

How to Play the Sarangi?

There are different methods of producing notes on the Sarangi. Most players play the Sarangi by pressing the strings slightly with their fingers of the left hand and bowing the strings with the right hand. Also, traditionally, the Gandarvas used to bow the root note continuously along with the notes of the song.

Price of Sarangi in Nepal

The price of sarangi in Nepal is different depending on the quality and the use. Some sarangis with high-quality materials are quite expensive, and some are budget-friendly. The price of a sarangi depends on your wants. The price of a sarangi starts from 300 to more than 50000.

Where to Buy Sarangi in Nepal

Offline Stores to by Sarangi

1. Asan & Indra Chowk (Kathmandu):
These bustling traditional marketplaces are not only famous for their cultural richness but also for musical instruments, including Sarangi. You’ll find locally crafted Sarangis ranging from basic beginner models to more refined, hand-carved instruments. Bargaining is common here, and you can directly speak with the sellers or even artisans.

2. Pokhara Lakeside Souvenir Shops:
In Pokhara, especially along the Lakeside area, many souvenir shops sell Sarangis as cultural items. While some may be decorative, others are playable and crafted for tourists and beginner musicians. It’s a great place for tourists who want to take home a piece of Nepali folk tradition.

3. Music Stores in Bhaktapur or Patan:
These historical cities are home to skilled artisans and small shops that sell authentic musical instruments. Many of these Sarangis are handmade using traditional wood and stringing methods, providing better sound and durability.

Online Platforms to Buy Sarangi

1. Swodeshi: 

Swodeshi is an online platform where all the handmade products are made and sold. So, you can buy the handmade decorative sarangi in the Swodeshi in reasonable price.

2. Daraz Nepal:
Daraz offers a wide range of Sarangis at competitive prices. You can browse options, read customer reviews, compare prices, and have the product delivered to your doorstep. Perfect for those looking for budget-friendly beginner options.

3. SastoDeal:
Another trusted online platform where you may occasionally find Sarangis listed, especially around festivals or cultural events. Always verify seller ratings and product descriptions for authenticity.

4. Local Artisans via Facebook/Instagram Pages:
Many skilled luthiers (instrument makers) in Nepal promote their handmade Sarangis on social media. Pages like “Sarangi Nepal,” “Nepali Folk Instruments,” or individual artisan profiles often allow you to order custom-made Sarangis directly.

5. YouTube Artisans with Direct Contact:
Some Nepali artisans showcase their Sarangi-making process on YouTube. They often provide contact details in the description, allowing you to order personalized instruments while supporting local craftsmanship.

Things to Check Before Buying a Sarangi

Buying a Sarangi isn’t just about picking the cheapest one. Here are key things to inspect:

• Sound Quality: The most important feature. Tap or bow the strings to check if it produces a deep, resonant sound. A dull tone might indicate poor construction or cheap materials.

• String Tension & Tuning Pegs: Make sure the strings are tight and evenly spaced. Loose or unstable tuning pegs can make it hard to maintain pitch.

• Type of Bow and Rosin Used: Traditional Sarangis come with a curved bow made of horsehair. Ask what kind of rosin is recommended for smoother playability.

• Seller Reviews or Authenticity: When buying online, go through reviews and ratings. If purchasing in-person, ask questions about the origin and wood type.

• Return or Warranty Options: Especially important for online purchases. Check if there’s a return policy in case the product doesn’t match the description.

Why Handmade Sarangis Are More Valued

Handmade Sarangis use aged wood, are tuned and tested by the artisan, and often carry cultural motifs. They produce better sound, last longer, and support the traditional craft industry in Nepal.

Conclusion

The sarangi is a true gem of Nepali music, with a sound that resonates deeply within the soul. Its unique construction, rich history, and emotive qualities make it stand out among other instruments. Despite its complexity, the sarangi is still famous in the music industry. Now it is our responsibility to protect this unique instrument and let the younger generation know about it.