The Gurmat tradition has greatly enriched human heritage by introducing masterfully crafted musical instruments that serve as tools to enhance our focus, philosophy, personality, and consciousness. Through these beautiful instruments, we can master our emotions and lead joyful lives. The Gurus gifted humanity six special instruments: the Rabab, Saranda, Jori, Sarangi, Taus, and Dilruba.These six instruments are not merely for performance or entertainment, nor were they created to showcase technical skill. They were designed as tools to sharpen our focus, deepen our life philosophy, shape our character, and awaken us to our full human potential. In recent times, much of the conversation has shifted toward debates about the instruments’ size, shape, or origin — distractions that overlook their true purpose. Rather than arguing over form, let us return to the why: these instruments were thoughtfully introduced and refined by the Sikh Gurus to support the expression of Gurmat Kirtan — a path of resonance, emotional alignment, and inner transformation.

RABAB

In the year 1500, at village Bharoana near Sultanpur, Punjab, India, a remarkable instrument was born — Rabab. Crafted by Bhai Firanda to the specifications of Guru Nanak Dev, the Rabab is revered as the first instrument of the Gurmat Kirtan tradition. Made primarily from ‘Tunn’ wood and stretching approximately 3 feet in length, this plucked instrument resonates with a deep, powerful sound, thanks to its gut strings and a hollow base covered with animal skin.

Rabab holds a special place in Sikh heritage. It was paid for and then gifted to Guru Nanak Dev by his elder sister, Bebe Nanaki, and became known as the ‘Firandia’ Rabab. Guru Nanak entrusted this cherished instrument to his dear friend Bhai Mardana, who played it as they traveled together. Wherever Guru Nanak's voice lifted in Sabd, the Rabab accompanied him with grace and majesty, laying the foundation for ‘Kirtan,’ the sacred tradition of singing Sabd.

The ‘Firandia’ Rabab is known for its remarkable versatility. It not only sings and resonates with depth, but also carries rhythm through its plectrum, removing the need for a separate percussionist. Light and portable, this two-in-one instrument became the perfect companion for travel — allowing Guru Nanak and Baba Mardana to share messages of love and unity through sound as they journeyed across the world.

SARANDA

Saranda is a mesmerizing instrument created in 1576–77 in Goindval, Punjab, by 13-year-old Sri Arjan Mal, who later became Guru Arjan Dev. He didn’t build it just for music, but as a way to help people feel more deeply connected to the sacred words of the Guru — called Sabd or Gurbani. 

Though similar instruments exist in other parts of the world for folk traditions, the Saranda holds a special place among Sikhs. It was uniquely crafted for Gurmat Kirtan —the sound of inner communication and reflection. Its design, choice of wood, and distinctive string arrangement make it look, sound, and feel unlike any other.

Saranda features three main playing strings and around 30 sympathetic strings that resonate together, creating a rich, deeply moving sound. Its large, hollow body produces tones that feel full and warm — like a gentle embrace for the soul.

To truly understand the magic of the Saranda, you have to play it — and allow your heart to follow where its sound leads.

JORI

A long time ago, in the year 1580, music echoed through the court of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. Among the musicians were two devoted Gurmat Kirtaniyas, Bhai Satta and Bhai Rai Balvand. They were known for their love of the Mirdang — a large, single drum. One day, they split it into two, giving birth to a new instrument: the Jori.

Jori is a pair of hand-played drums. But it’s more than just rhythm — it’s a language. Every beat tells a story. It mirrors the rhythm of your heart, your breath, your daily life.

Jori became an essential part of the Gurmat Kirtan tradition, infusing Gurbani with the vibrant pulse of time itself. Its sound doesn't just accompany — it uplifts, grounds, and connects.

In moments of busyness or stress, playing Jori can bring calm and clarity. It teaches presence, discipline, and deep listening — not just with the ears, but with the heart.

Some say Jori brings you closer to the Divine. But one thing is certain — when your hands meet its surface, something shifts. Something sacred begins.

So come. Place your hands on the drum. Feel the rhythm. Let Jori carry you on a journey — through sound, soul, and silence.

SARANGI

Sarangi is a powerful and mesmerizing instrument, revered across India and beyond. Believed to have been created by the great scholar Ravan around 5000 BCE, it is considered the oldest bowed instrument still in use today.

Its name, Sao-rangi, meaning “one hundred colors,” reflects its remarkable ability to express a wide range of emotions and tones. Often called the mother of all stringed instruments, the Sarangi is unique in its ability to mimic the human voice—deep, resonant, and full of feeling.

During the time of Guru Hargobind Sahib, the sixth Sikh Guru, Sarangi was brought into the tradition of Gurmat Kirtan. It became the chosen companion for singing the 22 Vaars (spiritual ballads) found in the Sri Guru Granth Sahib.

This classical Sarangi differs from the Dhadd Sarangi or Totta, which are more commonly used in folk traditions. Crafted from Tunn wood, it features three gut strings and a sound box covered with goat skin. Its voice-like resonance touches the heart, offering both emotional depth and spiritual upliftment.

TAUS

Taus was created in 1682–83 in Paonta, India, by Guru Gobind Singh. Its name, derived from the Persian word for “peacock,” reflects both its elegant, peacock-shaped design and its majestic presence — a true masterpiece of sight and sound. Originally pronounced Ta-voos, it is affectionately called Ta-oous in Punjabi.

A bowed instrument, Taus is known for its deep, mellow tones. It features four main playing strings, approximately seventeen sympathetic strings, and twenty frets. Carved from a single piece of wood and topped with goat skin, its large, hollow body produces a rich, resonant voice that seems to breathe with emotion.

In the tradition of Gurmat Kirtan, Taus — like all sacred Sikh instruments — is more than just musical. It is a spiritual tool, designed to align mind, body, and soul. Playing it nurtures focus, emotional balance, and inner resilience. Its sound invites stillness, reflection, and strength.

These instruments are not merely objects of music; they are divine companions on the path to harmony and self-discovery.

DILRUBA

Dilruba is a graceful instrument cherished in Gurmat Kirtan education and often heard during Kirtan in Gurdvaras. But have you ever truly listened to its gentle, soul-touching sound?

Created by Guru Gobind Singh  in 1690 at Anandpur Sahib, the Dilruba was designed as a smaller, lighter alternative to the Taus — making it easier for Sikh warriors to carry during their travels. Its compact form and soothing tone made it ideal for sharing Kirtan on the move.

Even today, the Dilruba continues to help us stay centered, calm, and connected. Its sound is easy to play and speaks directly to the heart.

Let its tender notes guide you inward—and bring stillness and peace to your path.