RANGEEN

Background of the Sitar

The sitar is one of the most iconic string instruments in Indian classical music, especially in the Hindustani tradition of North India. It likely evolved during the 13th–16th centuries, drawing influence from older instruments like the veena and Persian instruments like the setar (which means "three strings"). The sitar became widely popular in the 18th century and reached international fame in the 20th century, largely due to artists like Pandit Ravi Shankar and Ustad Vilayat Khan, who introduced it to Western audiences. It's known for its deep, resonant sound and the use of meend (glissando or pitch bending), taans (rapid note sequences), and taraf (sympathetic) strings that vibrate along with the played notes, enriching its tone.

Key Parts of the Sitar

1. Kunti (Tuning Pegs):
   • Used to tune the main and sympathetic strings.
2. Tar (Strings):
   • Usually 18–21 strings, including:
     • Main playing strings (melody and chikari).
     • Sympathetic strings (resonate automatically with the played notes).
3. Frets (Pardas):
   • Movable metal frets tied with silk threads; allow tuning adjustments and bending notes.
4. Tabli (Soundboard):
   • The flat wooden top that amplifies sound.
5. Tumba (Resonator):
   • A large, round gourd that serves as the main resonating chamber.
   • Some sitars also have a second tumba (smaller, behind the neck) for additional resonance.
6. Dandi (Neck):
   • The long hollow neck where frets are placed; supports the strings.
7. Jawari (Bridge):
   • The curved bridge that creates the sitar’s characteristic sound.
8. Gulu (Neck Heel):
   • The curved joint where the neck meets the body.