Predominantly seen across Rajasthan and Gujarat, Ravanahatha is a stringed instrument which functions similar to a violin. However, the origin of this instrument is not believed to be India, but Sri Lanka, where it was played by the Sinhalese people during the times of the king, Ravana. The instrumrnt also gets its name from the king. While the sound box is usually made of a coconut or gourd shell, the cover is made of goat hide and the neck is a wooden piece. The string which was earlier made from horse hair, is now replaced by steel.
Though it was quite popular during the rule of the royals in western part of India, presently Ravanahatha is commonly played only by the street musicians. Music aficionados can buy this instrument from any of the numerous shops in Jaisalmer, Jodhpur etc.
The first four pictures were captured from Jodhpur and the last one from Jaisalmer.
Good to read. Try to include a small byte of video of their playing.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Shrinidhi. I didn't take any video of them playing. Was more keen on listening and taking photographs. I should next time.
DeleteI found this article in a FB group and curious to read as the name suggest about 'Ravana'.I am a Sri Lankan but I didn't know about this instrument.Glad you shared such an interesting detail with beautiful photos...
ReplyDeleteThank you, Amila. Glad to know that you liked it.
DeleteNice to know about this..
ReplyDeleteGlad you liked it.
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