Bobbilli Veena

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About Bobbilli Veena

The traditional ‘Saraswati Veena’ from Bobbili is famed for its fine tune and distinctive notes.
It is a large plucked string instrument used in Carnatic music.
The making of the veena began in the 17th century during the reign of Pedda Rayudu, the king of Bobbili Samsthanam who was a great patron of music.
Features
- These veenas are painstakingly crafted from Jack-wood tree logs in Gollapalli, a town in Bobbili (AndhraPradesh).
- It takes almost a full month for a log of mute wood to be crafted into a fine musical instrument.
- Jack-wood is preferred as it is light and the unique grain of the wood renders the quality of swara or tone.
- A single piece of wood is used to create the instrument giving it the name ‘Ekandi Veena’.
- These Veenas are also remarkable for the exquisite designs etched on the body, making each piece exclusive.
- With their origin dating back to the Seventeenth Century, these veenas are played in a distinctive style, which also led to the coinage of the ‘Bobbili Veena Sampradayam’.
It earned a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2012 for its unique design and high-quality craftsmanship.

Q1) What is Carnatic Music?

Carnatic Music is a form of Indian classical music with origins in Southern India. Lyrics in Carnatic music are largely devotional; most of the songs are addressed to the Hindu deities.

Source: Strung out: Bobbilli Veena craftsmen struggle for livelihood