Esraj
Esraj with bow, from Monoj K Sardar and our own workshop. Bowed and fretted, and considerably more approachable than the sarangi.
Choosing yours
The esraj is bowed like a sarangi but fretted like a sitar, which makes intonation far easier to find. It is common in Bengali music and in Sikh devotional playing.
Instruments are supplied with a horsehair bow. The body is usually tun wood with a skin belly.
Care and climate
The skin belly responds to humidity. Keep the instrument away from dry heat, slacken the bow after playing, and store it out of direct sun.
Questions we get asked
Is the esraj easier than the sarangi?
Considerably, because it has frets. Intonation is far easier to find, though bowing technique still takes time.
What music is it used for?
Bengali classical and folk music, and Sikh devotional music, where it accompanies shabad kirtan.
Does it come with a bow?
Yes, a horsehair bow is included with every instrument.