Banaras Sehnai
Musical Instrument
History
The term “shehnai” comes from the Persian words “shah” (king) and “nai” (flute), meaning “king of flutes.” A double-reeded instrument with seven to nine holes, it resembles the oboe. Ustad Bismillah Khan popularized the shehnai globally, elevating it from weddings and religious ceremonies to classical concerts. His connection to Varanasi influenced his music, blending folk dhuns, classical raags, and the expressive thumri style, giving the shehnai its distinctive, soulful character.
Raw Materials and Tools
The shehnai is crafted from seasoned wood, typically teak or ebony, for durability and resonance. Its flared bell is made of metal, usually brass or copper. The reeds, essential for sound production, are crafted from fine cane. Tools used in making the shehnai include chisels, drills, files, and sandpaper for shaping the wood, along with specialized knives for cutting and refining the delicate reeds.
Process
The shehnai is a traditional Indian musical instrument made primarily of wood, featuring a double reed at one end and a metal flared bell at the other. The shehnai is technically classified as a quadruple reed woodwind instrument, consisting of four reeds stacked on top of each other. These reeds are attached to a metal tube, which connects to the wooden body of the shehnai. The wooden body features basic finger holes without any mechanical components and culminates in a metal sound funnel.
Design and Color
The shehnai has a long, hollow wooden body with finger holes, a flared metal bell, and a quadruple reed for sound production.
Product Range
Shehnai