Sangtar

Sangtar, also spelled Sangtar, is a term used within certain Hindustani classical music lineages (gharanas) and communities, primarily in reference to a specific musical instrument and the musical traditions associated with it. The term refers to a type of bowed string instrument, similar in construction and playing style to a sarangi but historically distinguished by its specific construction, ornamentation, and the specific repertoire performed on it.

The Sangtar differs from the more common sarangi in subtle but important ways. Historically, the soundbox might have been constructed differently, perhaps employing a different type of wood or a distinct carving style. Ornamentation on the instrument itself, such as inlay work or the style of the bridge, could also be distinctive markers. Most importantly, the repertoire played and the playing techniques employed on the Sangtar were often tied to specific performance traditions and family lineages. It may have been associated with specific devotional styles or particular types of compositions not commonly performed on other bowed instruments.

The term "Sangtar" also implies a specific school of musical thought or gharana. The instrument is not simply a physical object; it embodies the knowledge, techniques, and musical philosophy passed down through generations. A Sangtar-vadak (Sangtar player) is therefore not just someone who plays an instrument but a carrier of a specific musical tradition.

Historically, the distinction between Sangtar and sarangi might have been more pronounced, reflecting regional variations and differences in lineage traditions. Today, the term may be used more broadly, sometimes synonymously with sarangi, particularly as regional and lineage distinctions blur due to globalization and increased cross-cultural interaction within Hindustani classical music. The instrument's usage and the term "Sangtar" are primarily found in specialized musical circles and academic research relating to Hindustani classical music.