Bobbili veena is a large plucked string instrument used in Carnatic classical music. The Veena is named after Bobbili, a place where it was invented. In 2011 the musical instrument got a Geographical Indication tag from the Government of India.[1][2] [3][4]

Bobbili Veena
Bobbili Veena, in a glass case for decorative purpose.

History

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Bobbili Veena is considered to be invented in Bobbili of Vizianagaram district, Andhra Pradesh. The making of the Veena started in the 17th century during the reign of Pedda Rayudu. At that time, playing Veena was a common practice in India, specially South India. The entire development process of the Veena took more than three centuries. Bobbili kingdom rulers were fond of music, and many of them learned to play Veena.[5] In the Bobbili kingdom, the Veena used to be supplied by Sarwasiddi community craftsmen. These craftsmen were from Gollapalli. The craftsmen community who make this musical instrument are known as "Bobbili Veena sampradayam" (Bobbili Veena community).[6]

Description

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A Bobbili Veena is carved from a single piece of jack wood.[7]

References

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  1. ^ ":::GIR Search:::". ipindiaservices.gov.in. Archived from the original on 8 May 2017. Retrieved 5 May 2017.
  2. ^ "State Wise Registration Details of G.I Applications (15 September 2003 – Till Date)" (PDF). Geographical Indication Registry. p. 6. Retrieved 5 May 2017.
  3. ^ "Bobbili veena gets special GI tag". The Times of India. 31 December 2011. Retrieved 25 January 2016.
  4. ^ "Bobbili touch keeps veena alive". The Hindu. 14 April 2014. Retrieved 25 January 2016.
  5. ^ Ranjan, Aditi; Ranjan, M. P. (2009). Handmade in India: A Geographic Encyclopedia of Indian Handicrafts. Abbeville Press. p. 281. ISBN 978-0-7892-1047-0.
  6. ^ "Craft of making Bobbili Veena, Carnatic music, India,Tanjore". Gaatha. Retrieved 25 January 2016.
  7. ^ "Lepakshi Bobbili Veena". lepakshihandicrafts. Archived from the original on 31 January 2016. Retrieved 25 January 2016.