The esraj or esraaj (from the Punjabi: ਇਸਰਾਜ Shahmukhi: اسراج) is a stringed instrument found in two forms throughout South Asia. It is a relatively recent instrument, being only about 300 years old.

The esraj, also spelled as esraaj, is a captivating stringed instrument steeped in the cultural heritage of the Indian subcontinent. Originating approximately 300 years ago, it finds its roots primarily in North India and Pakistan, particularly in Punjab, where it is integral to Sikh music and Hindustani classical compositions, as

Known as the ‘Voice of the Sikhs’, the esraj is generally used as an accompanying instrument, and is also performed as a solo instrument in the Bishnupur tradition. Having a strong resemblance to the dilruba , it is originally from Afghanistan, and is said to have made its appearance in North India during Pashtun rule.

The main difference between the esraj and dilruba is the shape of their soundbox. The dilruba has a broad rectangular or rather trapzoid sarangi-like sound box, whereas the esraj has a roundish, oval- shaped sound box which is cut from the sides to facilitate bowing.

The Esraj, popularly seen in the northern parts of India, predominantly Punjab, in the Sikh music, Hindustani music and also in West Bengal, is among the very rare, divine and precious Indian classical instruments that’s played by a handful of players in today’s time.

2023年10月24日 · Join me on a soulful journey into the enchanting world of the esraj, an exquisite and melodious musical instrument that resonates with the rich cultural heritage of India.

2022年3月7日 · SOLO is a documentary that explores a new-age Indian music guru and his European disciple’s lifelong tryst with the Esraj, a dying accompanists’ instrument indigenous to the Bengal...

The esraj originated 300 years ago and was traditionally used to accompany singing. Similar to the dilruba, the esraj is a fretted stringed instrument. Whereas the dilruba has a trapezoid shaped sound box, the esraj has a smaller oval sound box and fewer sympathetic strings.