Most traditional tribal instruments of Jammu & Kashmir are designed and constructed while on the move. They are made of wood, animal skin, clay or metal and create unique sounds and rhythms, helping establish the identity of the community and the region to which they belong.
According to researcher-author Dr Javaid Rahi of the Gujjar/Bakerwal community, some instruments are only used by the nomads and by certain tribes during cultural gatherings, marriage functions and festivals.
Accompanying the Dhol is a popular wind instrument, the Sharnai. Its name is derived from the Persian words Surr (feast) and Nay (pipe reed). Dhol and Sharnai are an important part of any Gujjar ritual.
Some handmade instruments are only used by nomads and by certain tribes during cultural gatherings, marriage functions and festivals
Sharnai players are called ‘Merasi’ in Gojri while Dhol musicians are called ‘Mirasi’. Usually, the seniormost in a drum team plays the Sharnai.
The troupes are invited for marriages, Khatnal, Leetari, Satranj Chekai, Laadi and other celebrations. For dances, they play beats mainly called Dhukro.
Some instruments are daily implements that produce sounds incorporated in folk songs. For instance, the Chimtoo (tongs) is a kitchen tool but Gujjars modify it to use as an accompanying instrument while reciting mystic poetry.
Women beat the Ghadhoo or Ghodholi — an earthen pot or pitcher — like a Tabla for rhythm during marriages. In some tribal areas, religious considerations do not allow the Dhol, but use the Ghadhoo instead.
Gojri music also uses the Tota Saargi, which is slightly different to the string instrument, Sarangi. It’s very popular and played in the singing of Baet, Barramah and other Gojri folk songs.
Ustad Mohammad Hussain Merasi, Ustad Ghulam Mohammad Danslaya, Ustad Jatoo Merasi, Ustad Noora Merasi and Bashir Mastana are some popular names who sing Gojri folk with the Saargi.
Nomads also use the Yaktaro — a wood instrument with one string — to sing Sufiyana Gojri poetry.
The vibrant and spiritual tribal music of Jammu & Kashmir is enriched by these one-of-their-kind flutes, strings and whistles. Most of these are not available in the open market but are handcrafted by the nomads for their journey. Sadly, very few people even know of their existence now.
