Israj

The Israj

The Israj is a modern variant of the Dilruba, differing slightly in structure and using a bow to play. It is only 300 years old and mainly found in the Punjab, being used for Sikh music in the kirtan linage and Indian classical music. After a decline in popularity, the rise of the “Gurmat Sangeet” movement has reintroduced the Israj to a wider audience.

Rabindranath Tagore made this instrument mandatory for all the students of sangeet bhavana of Shantiniketan.

This instrument is not only beautiful to look at, it has the sweetest sound. Not cloying but a melody that invokes summer breezes with gentle rain…its resonance field hums within one’s own body.

We find that listening to the Israj is akin to meditation. We can only imagine the bliss felt by those who are blessed to play. There is a peace within both the Israj and its predecessor the Dilruba. We are so grateful to all who play and further expose the sound of it to the world…and maybe the heavens.
If the late great bard of India, Tagore, thought it important we know we are in the presence of greatness. After all he bent words to the will of his wisdom so to us, it follows the Israj bends music to its ecstasy.