What is a Shehnai?
Q: What is a Shehnai?
A: A Shehnai is a South Asian music instrument that is typically played at marriages and other ceremonies, rites, and rituals.
Q: What is the origin of the word Shehnai?
A: The word Shehnai has a Turkish origin and combines 'Sheh' (or 'Shah') meaning 'Royal' and '-Nai' or 'Ney', a type of Flute.
Q: What is a Surnai?
A: A Surnai is a version of the Shehnai that is played in the Northern and North-western areas of India and Pakistan, especially at traditional Polo matches.
Q: What is the Shehnai usually made of?
A: The Shehnai is usually made of wood.
Q: How does the Shehnai need to be played?
A: The Shehnai has to be blown like a flute to play it.
Q: What is the regional name for the Shehnai in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana?
A: The Shehnai is referred to as Nadasvaram in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Q: Who is considered the maestro of Shehnai?
A: Ustaad Bismillah Khan is considered the maestro of Shehnai.
