The Gurmat tradition has greatly enriched human heritage by introducing exquisite musical instruments that serve as tools to enhance our focus, philosophy, personality, and consciousness. Through these beautiful sounds, we can master our emotions and lead joyful lives. The Gurus gifted us six special instruments: the Rabab, Saranda, Jori, Sarangi, Taus, and Dilruba. However, as society has drifted toward quick fixes and distracting entertainment, these yogic instruments have become rare treasures. Let us explore their sounds and structures in search of a harmonious companion for our voices.

RABAB

In the year 1500, in Sultanpur, Punjab, India, a remarkable instrument was born—the Rabab. Crafted by Bhai Firanda to the specifications of Guru Nanak Dev, the Rabab is revered as the first instrument of the Sikhs. 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.

The 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 noted for its versatility. It not only sings and resonates powerfully but also keeps rhythm with its plectrum, eliminating the need for a separate percussionist. This two-in-one instrument, light and portable, was the perfect companion for their journeys, allowing Guru Nanak and Bhai Mardana to spread messages of love and unity using sound across the world.

SARANDA

The Saranda is a beautiful instrument created in 1576–77 in Goindval, Punjab, by a 13-year-old named Siri Arjan Mal, who later became Guru Arjan Dev Ji. He didn’t just make it for music, but to help people feel closer to the sacred words of the Guru, called Sabd or Gurbani. He encouraged everyone to sing Sabd with the Saranda and feel connected to something greater.

While other similar instruments are used in different countries for folk music, the Sikh Saranda is special. It was made just for singing Gurmat Kirtan—the music of the Sikh path. It looks, sounds, and feels different because of how it’s built, the kind of wood it uses, and its unique strings.

The Saranda has three main strings and about 30 extra ones that all vibrate together to make a deep, moving sound. Its big, hollow body makes the music feel full and warm—like it’s hugging your soul.

To really understand the magic of the Saranda, you just have to play it—and let it take your heart on a journey.

JORI

A long time ago, in the year 1580, music filled the court of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. Among the singers and musicians were two friends, Bhai Satta and Bhai Rai Balvand. They loved playing the Mirdang, a big, single drum. But one day, they had an idea—what if they split the drum in two?

And just like that, the Jori was born.

The Jori is a pair of drums that you play with your hands and fingers. It doesn’t just make music—it tells stories. Every beat is like the rhythm of your heart, the rhythm of your day, the rhythm of life itself.

The Jori became a special part of Sikh music. It brought energy and emotion to Kirtan—the singing of sacred words. And just like that, it became more than an instrument. It became a friend.

When life feels busy or stressful, playing the Jori can help you find calm. It teaches you focus, balance, and how to listen—not just with your ears, but with your heart.

Some say the Jori even helps you feel closer to the divine. But one thing is for sure—when you play it, something magical happens.

So come closer, little one. Place your hands on the drum. Feel the beat. Let the Jori guide you on a journey through sound, soul, and silence.

SARANGI

The Sarangi is a powerful and beautiful instrument, known across India and beyond. It’s believed to have been created by the scholar Ravan around 5000 BCE, making it the oldest bowed instrument still played today.

The name Sao-rangi means “one hundred colors,” showing how many emotions and sounds it can express. Often called the mother of all stringed instruments, the Sarangi is special because it can sound just like the human voice—deep, rich, and full of feeling.

During the time of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, the Sarangi was brought into the sacred space of Sikh music. It was used to sing the 22 Vaars (ballads) written in the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.

It’s different from the Dhadd Sarangi or Tota, which is used in folk singing. The classical Sarangi is made from Tunn wood, has three gut strings, and a sound box covered with goat skin. Its voice-like sound touches the heart and uplifts the spirit.

TAUS

The Taus was created in 1682–83 at Paonta, India, by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Its name, meaning “peacock” in Persian, reflects its elegant, peacock-shaped design—a true visual and musical masterpiece. Originally pronounced Ta-voos, it’s lovingly known as Ta-oous in Punjabi.

A bowed instrument, the Taus is known for its deep, mellow tones. It features four main strings, about seventeen sympathetic strings, and twenty frets. Carved from a single piece of wood and covered with goat skin, its large, hollow body gives it a rich, resonant voice.

In Sikh tradition, the Taus—like other sacred instruments—serves as a tool for inner growth. It helps balance the mind, body, and soul, allowing us to tune our emotions and build psychological strength. Playing it nurtures coordination and evokes deep feelings, from reflection to resilience.

These instruments are not just musical—they are divine companions on the journey to harmony and self-discovery. 

DILRUBA

The Dilruba is a beautiful instrument loved in Sikh music and often heard during Kirtan in Gurdvaras. But have you ever truly listened to its gentle, soul-touching sound?

Created by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1690 at Anandpur Sahib, the Dilruba was made as a smaller, lighter version of the Taus—so warriors could carry it easily. Its size and sound made it perfect for spreading sacred music on the move.

Even today, the Dilruba helps us stay calm, focused, and connected. It’s easy to play and speaks straight to the heart. 

Let its soothing notes guide you inward and bring peace to your journey.