Sarangi Musical Instrument: History and Playing Tips

Discover sarangi musical instrument, playing techniques, and price. Learn how to care for your sarangi and explore its role in classical music.
Explore Musical Instruments
5 min
9-Dec-2024

The sarangi is a short-necked, bowed string instrument hailing from India, boasting a soulful resonance thanks to its three main playing strings and up to 37 sympathetic strings. Made from a single block of tun wood and covered in goat skin, it is a marvel of craftsmanship. Traditionally used in classical and folk music, the sarangi stands out by sliding the fingernails along the strings, producing rich and emotive sounds. Experience the sarangi, where each note tells a story.

Check out all the musical instrument options on Bajaj Mall or visit any of Bajaj Finserv’s 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities in India. With our zero-down payment offers, you can effortlessly own the musical instrument that suits your taste and preferences without any initial payment.

What is Sarangi?

The sarangi is a traditional Indian string instrument renowned for its soulful and expressive sound, often compared to the human voice. It features a rectangular wooden body and is played with a bow. The instrument is a staple in Indian classical music, particularly in vocal accompaniment and folk traditions. The sarangi's rich, resonant tones are achieved through its unique construction and playing techniques, making it a cherished and essential instrument in Indian musical heritage. If you are a guitar lover, you will find many options on Bajaj Mall.

Historical significance of Sarangi musical instrument

The sarangi has a profound historical significance in Indian music, dating back several centuries. It is believed to have evolved from the ancient bowed instruments and has played a vital role in the development of Hindustani classical music. Historically, the sarangi was used to accompany vocalists, enhancing the emotional depth of performances. Its prominence in both court music and folk traditions highlights its versatility and cultural importance. You can also look at Kempa music instruments on Bajaj Mall.

Anatomy of the sarangi

The sarangi is crafted from a single block of tun wood and features a rectangular resonating chamber covered with goat skin. It has three main gut strings that are played with the bow and up to 37 sympathetic metal strings that vibrate in resonance, creating its distinctive sound. The neck is fretless, and the instrument is played by sliding the fingernails along the strings rather than pressing them down, allowing for nuanced pitch modulation and expressive playing.

Playing techniques of sarangi

  • Bow technique: The bow is drawn across the strings in a fluid motion to produce sound.
  • Fingernail sliding: Players use their fingernails to slide along the strings, allowing for smooth transitions and pitch variations.
  • Use of sympathetic strings: These strings vibrate in harmony with the played strings, adding depth to the sound.
  • Vibrato and ornamentation: Various techniques are used to add emotional expression and embellishments to the music.

Factors to consider when investing in a sarangi

Quality of wood

Ensure that the instrument is made from high-quality tun wood for better sound resonance

Number of sympathetic strings

More sympathetic strings can enhance the richness of the sound

Craftsmanship

Look for well-crafted instruments with precise construction and finishing

Playability

Consider the comfort and ease of playing, including the bow's quality and the fingerboard's smoothness

Sound quality

Assess the instrument's tonal quality and resonance to ensure it meets your musical needs


These factors will help you choose a sarangi that best suits your needs and preferences, ensuring a satisfying musical experience.

Updated price list of Sarangi in India (2024)

Model

Price

Musical Works Sarangi professional quality tun wood with original bow and,and heavy padded bag

Rs. 30,000

Sindhi Sarangi Folk Musical Instrument of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Rs. 32,500


Disclaimer:
The features, availability, and pricing of each model are subject to change and may vary. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please visit the official website.

Discover the timeless beauty of the Sarangi on Bajaj Mall. With Bajaj Finserv’s easy financing options, embrace the convenience of zero-down payment offers, making it easier than ever to bring the soul-stirring sounds of this unique instrument into your life. You can borrow up to Rs. 3 lakh and repay it over a tenure of up to 60 months. Explore a range of other musical instruments like the Tabla, Sitar, Flute, Harmonium, and Mridangam to add a melodious touch to your musical journey. With Bajaj Finserv, owning a piece of India's rich musical heritage is just a note away, all without any upfront costs.

Also read - List of Musical Instruments in India

Financing options with Bajaj Finserv

Click through Bajaj Mall, your virtual haven for irresistible offers on the sarangis. Once you have gathered all the details, venture to the nearest Bajaj Finserv partner outlet to personally select your ideal musical instrument. Seamlessly transact using Bajaj Finserv financing options, ensuring that your shopping experience is as harmonious as the melodies you will create. Enjoy the blend of convenience and elegance in your shopping journey.

Advantages of shopping using the Bajaj Finserv

  • Competitive prices: Benefit from competitive pricing on Bajaj Mall, ensuring your purchase remains budget friendly.
  • Easy EMIs: Enjoy hassle-free shopping with Bajaj Finserv.
  • Zero down payment: Some products qualify for our zero down payment policy, allowing you to skip the initial lump sum payment entirely.
  • Options and accessibility: Explore a wide range of products available at partner stores across multiple cities through Bajaj Finserv’s partner stores.
  • Exciting deals and cashback offers: Avail exciting deals and cashback offers when using Bajaj Finserv financing options for purchasing the sarangi.
  • Free home delivery: Select products come with the added convenience of free home delivery.

 

Popular Musical Instruments

Harmoniums

MIDI Keyboards

Chenda

Maracas

Bassoons Instrument

Trumpet

Octapad

Lute

Santoor

Congo Instruments

Mouth Organ

Mridangam

Harp

Tambourine

 

 

Bajaj Finserv app for all your financial needs and goals

Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.

You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:

  • Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.
  • Invest in fixed deposits and mutual funds on the app.
  • Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
  • Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
  • Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-qualified limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on Easy EMIs.
  • Shop from over 100+ brand partners that offer a diverse range of products and services.
  • Use specialised tools like EMI calculators, SIP Calculators
  • Check your credit score, download loan statements and even get quick customer support—all on the app.

Download the Bajaj Finserv App today and experience the convenience of managing your finances on one app.

Do more with the Bajaj Finserv App!

UPI, Wallet, Loans, Investments, Cards, Shopping and more

Disclaimer

While care is taken to update the information, products, and services included in or available on our website and related platforms/websites, there may be inadvertent inaccuracies or typographical errors or delays in updating the information. The material contained in this site, and on associated web pages, is for reference and general information purpose and the details mentioned in the respective product/service document shall prevail in case of any inconsistency. Subscribers and users should seek professional advice before acting on the basis of the information contained herein. Please take an informed decision with respect to any product or service after going through the relevant product/service document and applicable terms and conditions. In case any inconsistencies observed, please click on reach us.

*Terms and conditions apply

Frequently asked questions

What is the origin of the sarangi musical instrument?

The sarangi is believed to have originated in Northern India, with historical references dating back to the 13th century. It evolved from older bowed instruments used in folk and devotional music. The sarangi gained prominence in the Mughal courts and became integral to Hindustani classical music, particularly in vocal accompaniment.

How is the sarangi different from other Indian classical instruments?

The sarangi differs from other Indian classical instruments in its unique ability to mimic the human voice due to its fretless neck and playing technique involving sliding fingernails along the strings. Unlike the sitar or tabla, which have frets and are plucked or struck, the sarangi is bowed, producing a continuous, expressive sound ideal for vocal accompaniment and intricate melodies.

What is the average price of a sarangi instrument?

The average price of a sarangi varies depending on the quality and craftsmanship. A basic, student-level sarangi might cost around Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 20,000, while professional-grade instruments can range from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 100,000 or more. Custom-made or antique sarangis can be significantly more expensive due to their superior build and historical value.