Tungna

The Tungana or Tunga (Nepali: टुङ्ना) is a plucked string instrument from Nepal. It is made from a single piece of carved wood. The front hollow body (which serves as the sound-box) is covered with stretched animal skin on which the 'bridge' sits.[1] The Tungna has four strings which is anchored to the keys and body at both ends and the 'bridge' acts as a cantilever thus maintaining the tension of the strings.

Not to be confused with cittern, zither, or guitar.
Tungana
Tungana or Tungna
Other namesTungna
Classification String instrument (plucked)
Hornbostel–Sachs classification321.322 (necked box lute)
(Chordophone)
DevelopedNepal and Bhutan
Related instruments

It is mostly played by the people in the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal mainly the Tamang people during auspicious occasions, gatherings and festivals. The musicians play the Tungna and sing songs, which they compose themselves especially to welcome the New Year or during the harvest season. Most households of this mountain region have at least one Tungna in their house.

See also

References
  1. Nagendra Śarmā (1992). Secrets of Shangri-La: an enquiry into the lore, legend and culture of Nepal. Nirala Publications. p. 51. Retrieved 24 March 2012.
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