All about Esraj

Esraj (Esraaj) is an instrument with a recorded history of several centuries. Esraj is a bowed instrument and is found mostly in
the Eastern part of India (Bengal). The origins of the instrument are somewhat obscure. It is first mentioned around the
change of century by Debendranath Tagore. Mostly high cast women were playing Esraj for their own pleasure in the house,
that led to the conclusion that the reason for its occurrence may be found in the social structure of India. The instrument is
predominantly used as an accompaniment for classical music singers and musicians.

                          The shape of the instrument resembles a smaller version of the well known instrument, the Sitar. The
                           fret board and fret placings of the instrument are identical to that of the Sitar. However, similarities
                           almost end there.

                           The Esraj is a string instrument played with a bow. The instrument has four main strings and fifteen
                            vibration strings. All are metal strings. Only the first (and occasionally the second) strings are
                            played. Other strings provide a rich vibration effect making a fuller and deep, soothing tone. Esraj
                            creates the typical richly ornamented sound that echoes the human voice.

                           The instrument is made from rosewood or sometimes teak. Unlike the Sitar which has a bottom part
                            which is hard, the Esraj has a leather covering at the bottom similar to that of a Banjo with a bridge
                            which keeps the strings together. The bowing is done just above the bridge, as in violins and violas.
                            The Esraj is played in a sitting position with the bottom part of the instrument (where bowing is done)
                            resting on the lap of the player.

                           There are two major playing styles of this instrument. In the Bhatkhande style, the top part of the
                            instrument rests against the left shoulder of the player while playing, whereas in the Shanthiniketan
                            style, the instrument is held on a freestanding ninety degree vertical posture.

                           The Esraj had its golden era when the famous poet and philosopher Rabindranath Tagore chose it
                            as an accompaniment for his Tagore songs (Rabindra Sangeet). This situation arose out of the India
                            liberation movement when it became very unpopular to use anything that was of Western influence.
Santiniketan, his highly evolved artist community, could still be called the home of the Esraj.

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SATHSARA The splendour of Esraj
Music with a soul. Pamper yourself.

All About Esraj