It is the main bow instrument of India. An instrument of robust construction whose resonator box is carved, in a peculiar shape, from a single piece of wood. The harmony tabla is of skin and the wide neck ends in a square peg box. The three or four strings of gut are played with a bow. Several metal strings, which sound in sympathy, are placed beneath the main strings.
It serves especially to accompany song and has a beautiful sound. An excellent player, sliding his nail over the strings, easily obtains expressive glissandos, which are especially valued in the accompaniment of the voice.
