The word sitar is derived from the Persian word sehtar, meaning “three-stringed.” The instrument appears to have descended from long-necked lutes taken to India from Central Asia. The sitar flourished in the 16th and 17th centuries and arrived at its present form in the 18th century.

How was the sitar invented?

The sitar is a traditional and classical stringed instrument believed to have been invented in India around 700 years ago. It is played by striking a plectrum known as the mizrab (in Persian) or mezrab on the main strings of the instrument. There are two types of sitar: sada and tarabdar (also spelt tarafdar).

Why was the instrument invented?

Instruments were created to make musical sounds. Any object that produces sound can be considered a musical instrument, most particularly, if it was designed for that purpose.