The foundation of Sikhism was laid down by Guru Nanak, the first Guru of Sikhs. Guru Nanak propagated his message by using the alchemy of music, poetry and raag to preach the devotional love of God and oneness. Kirtan is an integral part of the Sikh faith. Traditionally stringed instruments (Tanti Saaj) were used to perform kirtan. The sound produced by these instruments have a profound effect on the emotions and psychological health which in turn benefits the body, mind and soul. During the Udasis (travels), Guru Nanak resounded the sacred hymns to the tunes of the Rabab played by Bhai Mardana (his muslim companion). In the Sikh culture, no festival is complete unless kirtan, a devotional melody in the honor of the God is sung.
The traditional Gurmat Sangeet involved the recitation of sacred hymns written in Guru Granth Sahib along with the stringed instruments (Tanti Saaj). When visiting a Sikh temple, one will observe a wide range of rich harmonic themes and extensive percussion systems supported by the melodious stringed and percussive instruments. The Sikh Gurus developed most of these instruments like Firandia Rabab, Jori, Saranda, Taus, Dilruba, Sarangi and Esraj.
India is home to numerous instruments including the Rabab, the first instrument of Sikhs. Originally it was used in Arab culture in classical and folk music. It is approximately 3 feet long and is made primarily of Indian Tonewood. It comes in several styles, shapes and sizes. The Rabab that was made by Bhai Firanda was known as Firandia Rabab. Guru Nanak selected this instrument because it can produce both Sur and Taal which cannot be produced by other instruments.
The Saranda was created by Guru Arjan Dev Ji in Goindval, a city in Northern India. Saranda is a bowed instrument with 3 main strings and 30 sympathetic strings. It creates a unique soul pleasing sound.
The Jori is a percussion instrument and its an important part of the Sikh music tradition. The Jori was brought into existence by Bhai Satta Dum and Bhai Rai Balwand. The Jori was created by splitting the Pakhawaj (barrel instrument) into a two-piece drum set.
An instrument that is widely used in the world of Indian classical music, the Sarangi is an enchanting and powerful instrument. The name Sarangi translates to 100 colors. The sound of this instruments resembles the human voice.
The word “Taus” means peacock in Persian, the Taus is a combination of 2 instruments, Sarangi and Sitar. It is a very unique and beautiful instrument which fascinates everyone.
The Dilruba translates to the “heart stealer”, is a smaller version of Taus. The reason for its creation was predominantly due to the practicality of being able to travel with it. It was created by the 10th guru, Guru Gobind Singh (The Master of languages). Just as the diverse range of instruments that form the part of the Sikh music tradition, there are different artists like Rababis, Ragis and Dhadhis that keep the tradition of Sikh music alive.
Learning an instrument and playing one of them is essential to the Sikh way of life which can connect us to the divine energy. Music is not only important for Sikh musicians but also for anyone who wants to uplift themselves spiritually. Sikh music tradition is an invaluable treasure for the nation and is loved by people belonging to other communities and religions all over the world.