Panche Baja: A Set of 5 Nepali Musical Instruments

What is Panche Baja?

Panche Baja is made of two Nepali words “Panche’” and “Baja“. Panche means ‘five’ in Nepali language while Baja means ‘musical instrument’. So, it is a set of 5 different traditional musical instruments of Nepal. They are played on various occasions, such as marriage ceremonies. Each occasion has a different style of tones. They are played to the rhythm of traditional Nepali folk songs. It is played traditionally by the Damai/Gaine castes of Nepal. All the Components of the Panche Baja family were described below in brief.

Panche baja

List of Panche Baja Components

All the components of baja are listed below:

  • Sanai/Shehnai
  • Tyamko
  • Damaha/Nagara
  • Dholaki (Dholak)
  • Jhyali/Jhymta/Jhuma

Alternatives instruments:

  • Narshigha
  • Karnal

One who wants to see all these components can visit The Music Museum of Nepal, located in Tripureshwor Kathmandu.

1. Sanai/Shehnai/Sahanai

sanai
Sanai

A sanai is a double-reed wind instrument used in Panche Baja. The sanai has a curved metal body, with a flared bell at the end and several finger holies (6-9 holes) along the length of the instrument. It is similar in shape to a Western oboe but has a different nasal tune that is produced by the player blowing into the reeds. While playing it, the player blows into the reed and closes and releases the holes with his finger. It is very difficult to play it requires an expert with a great breath controller. Sanai has been an integral part of Nepalese culture for centuries.

2. Tyamko

tyamko

Tyamko is a small kettle drum(bowl-shaped) like a Nepali musical instrument which is an essential member of panche baja. It is made of wood or copper. The upper parts of the instrument are covered with cowhide. It is played with two sticks(each in both hands) by standing, carrying on a strap around the neck, and putting on the player’s waist.

3. Dholak/Dholaki

Dholak
Dholak

Dholaki is a cylindrical drum like instrument. It is made of wood and animal hide is stretched over the open ends of the drum. It is played by striking two sticks or with hands only. This instrument is believed to be a precursor to the modern-day dhol.

4. Damaha/Nagara

Damaha
Damaha

Damaha is a Kettle drum with bowl-shaped slightly bigger than Tyamko. It is made of wood or brass. It is also covered with leather or animal hide. Damaha is usually played by standing. A neck strap is used to hold it. It is also played with two sticks like Tyamko. The two sticks used for striking are called Gajo.

5. Jhyali/Jhurma/Jhymta

Jhyali
Jhyali

Jhyali is a cymbal-type musical instrument and a member of panche baja. It consists of two metal plates that are struck together to produce a ringing sound. It is usually made of bronze or brass. Jhayali is played by holding one metal in each hand and striking them together.

Alternatives components:

These alternatives are used in Naumati baja(nine sets of musical instruments) while they are also used in panche baja as alternatives.

  • Narsiha: It is a C-shaped trumpet made of copper alloys or copper alloys. It is also an important member of Panche Baja. Narsiha usually is played along with other member of panche baja in Nepalese weeding ceremonies.
  • Karnal: Karnal is a long straight trumpet usually made of copper or brass. It can be up to a meter long and has a large bell-like structure at one end while another end is used to blow air.
Narsinga
Narsinga
Karnal
Karnal

FAQs:

1. Why panche baja is called so?

Ans. In Nepali, Panche baja means “five instruments”. It is traditionally played by a group of 5 musicians playing various instruments. The instruments include Jhyali, Dhamaha, Tyampo, Sanai, Dholak, Narasimha, etc. So, we can say the name “panche baja” is likely chosen because of the number of musicians and instruments involved in the traditional performance.

2. Describe an occasion when panche baja is arranged to play.

Ans. This Baja is often performed on occasions like Nepali weddings, religious events, and even some festivals. It is served as a form of entertainment and celebration. It is also played at various cultural events, and in public spaces, where it is served as a way to bring people together and promote cultural exchange.

3. Why should we preserve Panche baja? or write its importance?

Ans. Panche Baja is an important cultural tradition of Nepal. It holds Nepal’s history and heritage. It is a form of expression that reflects the country’s customs, beliefs, and values. In addition to its cultural significance, it also plays a vital role in preserving and promoting our traditional music to the world. In short, it is an important part of Nepal’s cultural identity and a vital aspect of the country’s artistic and musical heritage.

4. How panche baja is gaining popularity in Nepal?

Ans. Nowadays, Panche Baja is gaining popularity all over Nepal because of the following reasons:

Cultural preservation: As mentioned above, it is an important aspect of and cultural identity of Nepali people. Many organizations are focusing on preserving panche baja as a part of the preservation of cultural and musical heritage.
Government promotion: The government of Nepal is promoting it, as a part of its cultural heritage and encouraging it to perform in various national and international events.
Fusion with Modern Music: With the advent of globalization, it has been fused with modern music. This has made it more appealing to the younger generation, who are more like to be interested in contemporary sounds and music.
Tourist Interest: Increasing volume of tourist visiting Nepal are also contributing to the popularity of this Baja. It is a popular entertainment form often included in cultural tours and events.
Social Media: With the widespread use of social media, these Baja performances are now easily shareable and accessible to a wider audience. this has helped to increase its visibility of it and attracts new fans. 

5. Who plays Panche Baja?

Ans. Traditionally, it was played by the Damai and Gaine castes of Nepal.

6. What measures do you suggest to preserve Panche Baja?

Ans. I would like to suggest the following measures to preserve it:

Awareness programs should be organized so people will initiate to preserve it.
Competitions to play such folk musical instruments should be organized.
Some clubs at the local level should initiate the preservation of such folk instruments.
Governments should help people who are involved in making and playing it at any cost.

Also Read: Popular Dances of Nepal | Folk Dance | Classic Dance

Leave a Reply

Scroll to Top