From North To South: Meet The Musical Instruments Behind Traditional Indian Music

Do you also get mesmerised listening to songs like "Tum Aa Gaye Ho, Noor Aa Gya Hai" or "Tujhse Naraz Nahi Zindagi"? Does it seem like these songs speak straight to your soul? Well, if your answer is yes, a major credit goes to the musical instruments used in the background. From sarod to tabla, each indian musical instrument has its own story. And even before Bollywood embraced it, it was cherished by people in India and abroad. Artists like Pandit Ravi Shankar played a part in that journey. He brought the sitar to global ears, blending classical Indian ragas with stage performance. But he wasn't alone. Across the country, many musicians kept the roots of Indian music alive through instruments like the tabla, veena, and shehnai. These weren't just tools for sound; they were part of ceremonies, teachings, and traditions. Even today, these musical instruments are taught in homes and schools, used in temples and concerts, showing how deeply they are woven into India's cultural rhythm.

From North To South: Meet The Musical Instruments Behind Traditional Indian Music; Photo Credit: Pexels

Indian musical Instruments like tabla, sitar, and dhol add depth and emotion to the music. Coming from all across the country, these instruments blend easily with modern beats giving rise to today's music. Many composers still use them to connect with tradition while creating music that feels fresh, real, and rooted in Indian identity.

Also Read: Fall In Love Again: Listen To "Ishq Hai" From Mismatched And Curate Your Own Dreamy Playlist

Musical Instruments From Different Parts Of India

Sitar

The sitar is a long-necked string instrument with movable frets. It is widely used in Hindustani classical music. It has a gourd resonator and played with a mizrab (wire pick). The sitar's sound comes from plucking and vibrating strings. Often used in solo or duet acts. Many players tune it based on ragas.

Tabla

Tabla is a pair of hand drums with different sizes and pitches. It is a key rhythm instrument in Hindustani music. Made of wood and metal, it has a special black spot at the centre for tone. Played with fingers and palms. Often used in both classical and fusion music.

Veena

Veena is a South Indian plucked string instrument with frets. Often played in Carnatic music. It has a long wooden body and is placed across the lap. It produces both melody and drone. Used during temple music and classical concerts. Played using fingers or plectrum.

Mridangam

Mridangam is a barrel-shaped drum used in Carnatic concerts. Played with hands, it has two sides, giving bass and treble sounds. Made with jackfruit wood and leather. Played while sitting on the floor. It supports both dance and music events.

Shehnai

Shehnai is a wind instrument made of wood with a flared metal bell. It is often used in North Indian weddings and temple functions. Played with breath and finger holes. Its tone is unique and used for auspicious events.

Sarod

Sarod is a fretless string instrument from North India. Played with a plectrum, it produces a deep, heavy sound. Used in Hindustani classical music. It has metal strings and is tuned to various ragas. Sarod needs fine fingerwork for fast slides.

Dhol

Dhol is a double-sided drum played with sticks. Common in Punjab, it drives folk music like Bhangra. It has a loud, dance-friendly sound. Played by holding on the shoulder. Used in weddings and festive shows.

Santoor

Santoor is a stringed instrument played with wooden mallets. It has many strings stretched over bridges. Found in Kashmir, it is used in both classical and folk music. It makes a soft ringing sound when played. Can be placed on the lap or table.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the easiest Indian instrument for beginners?

Tabla and dhol are among the easiest for beginners because they follow patterns that are easy to learn and don't require tuning during the early stages.

2. Do Indian musical instruments need regular tuning?

Yes, most string musical instruments like sitar, veena, and santoor need regular tuning to match ragas. Drums like the tabla and the mridangam also need tuning with tools.

3. Can these musical instruments be learned online?

Yes. Many tutors and platforms now offer video lessons and live classes for all the listed musical instruments, making it easier to learn from anywhere.

4. Is buying these musical instruments online safe?

Buying from trusted sellers with good reviews is safe. Look for seller ratings, return policies, and packaging details before purchase.

5. What should I check before buying an instrument?

Check size, material, tuning method, and sound samples. Also, confirm if it comes with a case or accessories.

Amazon Prime gives users faster delivery, early access to deals, and special discounts on many musical instruments. If you're looking to buy traditional Indian musical instruments online, Prime helps you get them quicker and often at a better price. It also offers easy returns and exclusive deals during Prime sales. This makes upgrading or starting your music journey more convenient and affordable.

Indian musical instruments are not just for concerts; they are tools that connect generations, cultures, and learning. From the Sitar to the Dhol, each one carries deep tradition and modern use. Whether you are learning, teaching, or collecting, these musical instruments offer sound and story together. Upgrading to a better version brings a clearer tone and easier play. With online platforms making them easy to find, now is a good time to start or upgrade your collection. Shop now on Amazon