The sarangi musical instrument is a unique and deeply expressive tool that plays a crucial role in South Asian classical music. This traditional bowed string instrument has earned a distinguished place in Indian, Nepali, and Pakistani musical traditions, thanks to its human-like tone and versatility.

The sarangi is a bowed, short-necked three-stringed instrument which is basically played in Nepal and India.

Across the hills and cities of Nepal, one can often find a Gaine (Gandharva) musician with a Sarangi in hand. Whether on a quiet street corner or at a local festival, the sound of the Sarangi stops people in their tracks. Its haunting, emotional tones draw in both locals and tourists — some dance, some listen in silence.

Even though many tourists can’t understand the lyrics of the folk songs, they’re still moved by the Sarangi’s melodies. Its sound transcends language and speaks straight to the heart. Over time, Nepal has even become a destination for foreigners who travel here just to learn the Sarangi, fascinated by its emotional power and deep cultural roots.

What is Sarangi Musical Instrument?

The sarangi musical instrument  is a short-necked fiddle that typically measures around 76 cm (30 inches) in length. Known for its rectangular, slightly waisted body, it is traditionally carved from a single block of wood, with a hollow resonance chamber. The instrument features three main gut strings and multiple sympathetic strings that resonate to create its signature sound. Played vertically, with the left shoulder supporting it, the sarangi is bowed underhand, using a heavy horsehair bow. The left hand’s unique playing style, using nails and cuticles to press the strings, allows for a smooth, expressive tone.

What is a Nepali Sarangi?

The Nepali Sarangi is a traditional string instrument played with a bow. It is carved from a single block of wood, traditionally using hardwoods like sisau, saaj, or kher. The instrument has four main parts:

• Stomach and chest (the hollow body, or soundbox),
• Neck (where the strings run),
• Head (often decorated or carved),
• And four tuning pegs—historically called kaan (meaning “ears”).

Earlier, the Sarangi’s strings were made from goat intestines, giving it a raw, organic sound. Today, most are made using ready-made synthetic or metal strings, offering better durability and easier tuning. Despite changes in materials, the handcrafted process remains traditional, with the entire instrument carved from a single piece of wood—starting from the chest and stomach before the neck and head are shaped.

It takes an artisan 3 to 7 days to make a single Sarangi, depending on the size and design. The most common sizes available are 19 inches, 27 inches, and 30 inches, each offering slightly different tonal ranges and resonance.

History of the Sarangi

The origins of the sarangi remain somewhat uncertain, though it is believed to have evolved over centuries within the Indian subcontinent. Once used predominantly to accompany vocal performances, its deep, resonant sound made it a favorite for mimicking the human voice. Throughout history, the sarangi has been integral to both classical and folk music, particularly in Hindustani music. Its rich tone has made it a key instrument in the Indian music world for centuries.

Construction & Design of the Sarangi

The body of the sarangi is traditionally made from a single block of wood, often red cedar (tun), and is divided into three sections: pet (stomach), chaati (chest), and magaj (brain). The lower resonance chamber is covered with goat skin, and the bridge is typically made from camel or buffalo bone. The sarangi musical instrument features three main strings, with anywhere from 11 to 37 sympathetic strings, which are crucial in producing the deep, complex resonances that characterize its sound.

How to Play the Sarangi ?

Mastering the sarangi involves several techniques, and its unique playing style requires both skill and precision. Here’s how the instrument is played:

• Posture: The player sits cross-legged and holds the instrument vertically against their left shoulder.
  

• Bowing Technique: The bow is held with an underhand grip, and the player uses their nails and cuticles to press the strings.
  

• Finger Placement: The left hand presses the strings on the neck, creating specific pitches. This, along with the sympathetic strings, gives the sarangi its distinctive sound.

Types of Sarangi Musical Instrument

There are various types of the sarangi musical instrument, each suited to different music genres:

1. Folk Sarangi: This version is smaller and used predominantly in regional folk music. It has four strings and is played with a more straightforward bowing technique.
2. Classical Sarangi: Larger and more precisely crafted, the classical sarangi is used in formal settings and features more strings, allowing for intricate musical expressions.

And also the sarangi can be both decorative and professional — decorative sarangis are used for display, while professional sarangis are crafted for playing music.

Besides this there are four main types of Sarangi which are discussed below:-

1. Sindhi Sarangi

The Sindhi Sarangi musical instrument is a traditional variant of the Sarangi that originates from the Sindh region, now divided between India and Pakistan. It is known for its rich, deep, and resonant tone. The Sindhi Sarangi typically has a smaller body compared to other types, which contributes to its brighter, more focused sound. It is used in various folk and classical music traditions, especially in the Sindhi and Rajasthani musical repertoires. The instrument usually has 3 main strings for melody, and 30 to 40 sympathetic strings that enhance the overall sound.

The Sindhi Sarangi is often played with the fingers in a technique similar to the violin, but with a bow made from horsehair. The instrument has a unique ability to express deep emotions and is considered the “closest” instrument to the human voice, especially in the hands of a skilled player.

2. Bishna Sarangi

The Bishna Sarangi is a variant that comes from the Punjab region and is often associated with the Bishna community of musicians. It is larger than the Sindhi Sarangi, and its construction typically involves a slightly more refined and intricate design, sometimes with more decorative elements. The body is made of wood, and the design of the soundboard, which is traditionally carved out of a single piece of wood, allows it to produce a fuller and richer tone.

This Sarangi typically has 4 main strings and more sympathetic strings than the Sindhi version. The Bishna Sarangi is known for its strong, sustained, and powerful sound, which suits the classical traditions of Hindustani music. It is especially used in the Thumri and Dhrupad styles, and its tonal quality is perfect for rendering subtle nuances in slow ragas. The Bishna Sarangi’s sound can be described as both melancholic and tender.

3. Kachua Sarangi

The Kachua Sarangi, sometimes called the “turtle-shaped Sarangi,” gets its name from the distinctive shape of its body, which is said to resemble a turtle’s shell. This Sarangi is more compact and features a shorter neck, which results in a more mellow and softer tone compared to the other types. The Kachua Sarangi is typically used in folk music, particularly in rural areas where it is used to accompany storytelling, dance, and other folk performances.

It has a unique timbre, characterized by a deep, earthy resonance, and is often favored for its expressive power in bringing out the raw emotions in folk melodies. The sound of the Kachua Sarangi can be described as warm and rich, and it is particularly effective in expressive solo performances. The Kachua Sarangi is typically played in semi-classical or folk styles, and its sound has a more intimate quality, making it suitable for devotional music or sufi traditions.

4. Dilkusha Sarangi

The Dilkusha Sarangi (meaning “heart-delighting Sarangi”) is a variation that focuses on producing a particularly sweet and enchanting tone. It is named for its ability to evoke joy and emotion, often described as the instrument that “wins the heart” of its listeners. The Dilkusha Sarangi has a more finely tuned body and is typically smaller and lighter than other types, contributing to its bright, resonant sound.

The Dilkusha Sarangi has fewer sympathetic strings than the Sindhi Sarangi, and it is designed for lighter classical music, as well as light folk tunes. The melodic range of the Dilkusha Sarangi is often very wide, allowing it to produce both sharp and soft notes, making it ideal for performances in romantic and devotional contexts. Its tonal quality is often described as sweet and captivating, perfectly suited for the rendering of Ragamalika or Raga-based melodies with high emotional expressiveness.

What Makes Nepali Sarangi Unique?

Although the Sarangi is found in other South Asian cultures, Nepal’s version is distinctly different—especially from the Indian classical Sarangi:

Unlike the complex Indian Sarangi, the Nepali version is easier to handle, making it a great choice for beginner musicians, spiritual players, and folk music lovers.

Sarangi Musical Instrument Across Cultures

The sarangi musical instrument is used across several South Asian cultures:

• India: A cornerstone of Hindustani classical music, it is often featured in both instrumental compositions and vocal accompaniment.
• Nepal: In Nepali traditions, the sarangi is crafted from local materials and is used in a variety of cultural performances.
• Pakistan: The sarangi remains an essential instrument in classical and qawwali performances.

The Myth Behind the Name: Sarang and the Sarangi

There are many theories about how the Sarangi got its name. One of the most poetic links is to the Sarang, a mythical bird believed to sing beautifully only when it rains. Its voice was said to bring emotional peace to listeners.

The Sarangi, too, is known for producing tones that mimic human voice and nature, making this connection more than just symbolic. Some believe the name comes from combining “sau” (hundred) and “rang” (colors), reflecting the instrument’s ability to express a hundred emotions through its four strings.

Famous Sarangi Players

Many legendary musicians have brought the sarangi musical instrument to global attention:

• Ustad Sultan Khan: A virtuoso who played with renowned artists such as Ravi Shankar and Zakir Hussain.
• Pandit Ram Narayan: Known for elevating the sarangi to a solo concert instrument.
• Ustad Sabri Khan: Helped introduce the sarangi to Western audiences through international performances.
• Aruna Narayan: The first Indian woman to professionally play the sarangi, she has played a vital role in preserving its legacy.

Sarangi vs. Violin

Though both are bowed string instruments, the sarangi differs significantly from the violin:

• Construction: The sarangi has a shorter neck and a boxier body, typically carved from a single block of wood.
• Playing Technique: The sarangi is played vertically, using the nails to press the strings, whereas the violin is played horizontally with the fingers.
• Sound: The sarangi produces a more nasal, resonant tone that closely resembles the human voice, whereas the violin has a brighter, more sustained sound.

The Sarangi in Today’s Nepal

The Sarangi isn’t stuck in the past. In fact, it’s gaining popularity among modern musicians and youth, thanks to artists like:

• Shyam Nepali
• Prince Nepali, a master Sarangi player who carried the instrument’s legacy to national and international stages
• And various international fusion collaborations

These musicians have helped reintroduce the Sarangi to mainstream audiences by mixing it with jazz, rock, pop, and blues. At the same time, traditional folk groups continue to use it during festivals and rituals across Nepal.

It’s not just for musicians either—many people use the Sarangi as a decorative piece, a spiritual object, or a cultural souvenir.

Why Should You Own a Sarangi?

If you’re someone who values culture, tradition, and craftsmanship, here’s why a Sarangi belongs in your home:

Authentic Folk Sound
Experience the emotional depth of Nepali music—even if you don’t play, a single stroke of the bow can move your soul.

Handmade by Artisans
Each Sarangi is individually made by Nepal’s Gandharva community, giving you a unique, soul-crafted item.

Cultural Preservation
Your purchase supports local craftsmanship and helps keep Nepali traditions alive.

Great for Gifting or Décor
Perfect as a meaningful gift for musicians, travelers, or those who love world culture.

Spiritual & Meditative
Its deep tone creates a calming, meditative environment—ideal for yoga spaces or spiritual corners.

Conclusion

The sarangi is a true gem of Indian classical 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 in the world of traditional music. The sarangi  has played a vital role in shaping the melodies of Hindustani classical music and continues to captivate audiences with its ability to mimic the human voice.

Despite its complexity, the sarangi  is making a comeback in both classical and fusion music, thanks to dedicated musicians preserving its legacy and introducing it to younger generations. As the world discovers more about this remarkable instrument, its cultural significance and emotional depth only become clearer.

If you’ve ever been moved by the sounds of a sarangi musical instrument, we’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts in the comments below, or let us know how the sarangi has influenced your love for Indian music.

FAQs About the Sarangi Musical Instrument

• Is the sarangi difficult to play?

Yes, the sarangi requires dedicated practice due to its unique techniques, including precise finger placement and bowing.

• Can the sarangi be learned online?

While online resources exist, personal instruction is recommended for learning the complex techniques of the sarangi .

• What sets the sarangi apart from the violin?

The sarangi  has a unique construction and playing style, producing a tone that mimics the human voice, unlike the violin, which has a brighter sound.

Made by the Gandharva Community

At Swodeshi.com, we’re proud to say that our Sarangis are handcrafted by the Gandharva community of Nepal—traditional musicians and storytellers who have passed this craft down through generations.

Their role in Nepali culture is significant. Gandharvas (or Gaines) traveled from village to village, performing songs that relayed stories, social messages, and even news. Their Sarangis weren’t just musical instruments—they were tools of storyteling and cultural preservation.

By purchasing a Sarangi from Swodeshi.com, you are directly supporting this community and helping preserve a unique part of Nepal’s heritage.

✅ Made from: Single block of Saaj or Kher
✅ Time to craft: 3–7 days

✅ Available sizes: 19″, 27″, 30″
✅ Ships internationally: Yes

Ready to Bring the Sound of Nepal Into Your Home?

Whether you’re a music lover, a collector, or someone looking for a piece of Nepali soul, the Sarangi is more than an instrument—it’s a connection to culture, history, and emotion.

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📦 We offer international shipping
💬Questions? [WhatsApp:+977-9741802999, Email: care@swodeshi.com ]