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Desert Musician Revives Dying 1500-Year-Old Instrument
9 Feb
Summary
- Elderly musician masterfully plays the 1,500-year-old Morchang.
- The Morchang is a jaw harp-style lamellophone with metal ring.
- Viral video showcases the instrument's comeback from oblivion.
A 1,500-year-old instrument from Rajasthan, the Morchang, is experiencing a revival thanks to a viral video of an elderly musician playing it. This ancient folk treasure, originally used by shepherds, was fading from view but is now being brought back to life by rural artisans and performers.
The Morchang is a unique jaw harp-style lamellophone, featuring a metal ring and prongs with a flexible central tongue. Players hold it between their teeth, plucking the tongue and shaping sounds with their breath and mouth cavity to create rhythmic pulses, often accompanied by dholak drums.
This resurgence highlights how simple instruments can resonate through ages, especially when skilled players like the musician featured in the viral video keep them alive. The Morchang's comeback battles against fading traditions, demonstrating the power of digital platforms in preserving cultural heritage.
