Melodies on the Move: Satpal’s handmade Saranghis bring tradition to Chandigarh streets

By Saurabh Duggal

In the bustling streets of Chandigarh, a unique melody often fills the air, capturing the attention of passersby. The source of this enchanting sound is Satpal Singh, a 46-year-old artisan from Bidhal village in Sonepat.

Satpal roams the streets selling handmade saranghis, a traditional musical instrument he crafts with skill and dedication.

The saranghi, made from bamboo and a small earthen cup, with benjo wires, is an instrument that Satpal Singh learned to create in 1996.

His journey with the saranghi began during a tour to Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh, where he became fascinated by the instrument. Upon his return, he learned the intricate art of making and playing the saranghi from Attar Singh, a craftsman from the nearby village of Bhainswal, where this traditional craft has been preserved for generations.

"Making the saranghi was not that difficult," Satpal recalls, "but mastering the art of playing it took me 2-3 years."

Now, his repertoire includes many popular Hindi numbers, and he even shares his music on his YouTube channel, 'SS Old Music.'

Coming from a weaver community with no land of his own, Satpal Singh has found a livelihood in his craft. Apart from selling in the streets of Chandigarh, he also travels to various states, including Goa, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh, to sell his saranghis, sometimes making more profit in these regions.

Despite the challenges, he has managed to support his family, including his daughter, who is currently in 12th grade. His hard work ensures that his children receive a good education.

Satpal manages to sell around 150 pieces each week.

"The current kids have not seen saranghi, so they get fascinated and buy it to try their hand at the musical instrument and keep it as a showpiece," he explains. Over the years, the price of a saranghi has increased from Rs 5 in 1996 to Rs 100 in 2024.

Satpal Singh's efforts not only sustain his family but also keep the tradition of the saranghi alive, introducing a new generation to its unique charm and cultural significance.