Esraj

History

The esraj is a 19th-century evolution of the dilruba and taus, lighter and a little easier to play. It became popular among Bengali musicians and was carried back into Sikh kirtan in the modern revival. Many contemporary kirtanis learn esraj as a gentler stepping-stone toward the taus.

A bowed string instrument closely related to the dilruba, with a fretted neck and sympathetic strings. Popular in Sikh kirtan revival efforts for its singing tone and ability to closely follow the vocal line.

Tuning & playing guide

Four main playing strings tuned Sa – lower Pa – lower Sa – lower Pa, with around fifteen sympathetic strings tuned to the swaras of the raag. The playing string is stopped against the moveable frets with the back of the fingernail. Bow underhand with light, even pressure.

Hear how it sounds