Instruments at the Museum

Nagara

The Nagara is a percussion instrument having two kettle drums, which are played with two sticks, the Surnai and Nafeeri. It is often played in a pair and is known as the joh nagara. The bigger drum is made of copper and is coverd with buffalo skin to produce a deep and heavy sound. The smaller is made of steel and is covered with camel skin, producing a light sound. Earlier used as a war drum, its beat heralded the arrival of kings and princes and meant that the army was marching into battle. Today it is played on festive occasions forming a part of the orchestra for the folk operas or to accompany the shehnai or "Indian oboe", an indispensable component of any North Indian wedding.