Ravanahatha

The Ravanahatha is a historical bowed string instrument believed to have originated in ancient India. Its name is often translated as "Ravan's bow," referring to the mythical king Ravana from the Ramayana epic, who is traditionally credited with its invention. The instrument is considered a precursor to many modern string instruments, including the violin.

Historically, the Ravanahatha was typically made from a hollowed-out piece of wood, often coconut shell, with a skin stretched over the opening. A neck was attached, and strings were made from gut or horsehair. A bow, also strung with horsehair, was used to play the instrument, producing a resonant and often melancholic sound. The Ravanahatha was played in various regions of India, particularly in Rajasthan, where it is still found in folk music traditions.

Performers of the Ravanahatha were often itinerant musicians, sometimes referred to as Bhats or Charans, who would sing epics and devotional songs accompanied by the instrument. The melodies produced by the Ravanahatha are characterized by their intricate ornamentation and expressive qualities. While its prevalence has diminished with the advent of newer instruments, the Ravanahatha remains an important artifact in the study of Indian musical history and continues to be preserved and performed by a dedicated few.