Percussion
Nagara
ਨਗਾਰਾ
Guru Hargobind Sahib ji (Ranjit Nagara)
History
Guru Hargobind Sahib ji established the Ranjit Nagara at the Akal Takht in the early 1600s as the sovereign drum of the Khalsa, signalling the rise of Miri-Piri. Its thunder still announces Nihang processions and major gatherings today.
A large kettle-drum struck with two wooden beaters. Guru Hargobind Sahib ji established the Ranjit Nagara at Akal Takht as a sovereign drum of the Khalsa — its thunder still announces gatherings and Nihang processions today.
Tuning & playing guide
Two skin heads tied over a large iron or wooden kettle, tensioned with rope. Tighten the rope lacing until the heads ring open and resonant. In damp weather, briefly sun or warm the heads (not on direct flame) to bring back the tone. Struck with two wooden beaters, one in each hand, with a steady marching pulse.
Hear how it sounds
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Keep the metal or wooden shell dry and rust-free — wipe it down after outdoor processions. The skin head will sag in damp weather; sun it briefly or warm it near (not on) a fire to bring back the tone. Avoid striking the very centre of the skin repeatedly, which wears a hole; vary the stroke position. Re-tighten or relace the rope tension when the head loosens.