The 'pena', a traditional bowed string instrument, is associated with which state?

Explanation

The pena is a traditional bowed string instrument of Manipur, played by the Meitei people. It is one of the oldest musical instruments of the state and is closely linked with its religious and cultural traditions.

The pena has a simple but distinctive structure. Its body is made from half a coconut shell, covered with animal skin, and it has a long bamboo rod as its neck. It has a single main string, traditionally made of horsehair, and it is played with a curved bow, which is often decorated with small bells that jingle as the player moves the bow. The player usually sings while playing the pena, and the instrument accompanies the songs.

The pena is traditionally played during the Lai Haraoba, the most important ritual festival of the Meitei people, which is held to please the traditional deities (Umang Lai) and to celebrate the creation of the world. During the festival, pena players sing old songs and stories, and the instrument is used in rituals and dances. It is also used to accompany the singing of ballads, such as the story of Khamba and Thoibi, the famous lovers of Manipuri folklore. The art of playing the pena was traditionally passed down in families. Because few young people learn it today, the government and cultural organisations are working to preserve it.

Manipur has a rich musical and dance culture. Its classical dance, Manipuri, is famous for the Raas Leela. Other instruments of Manipur include the pung (a drum used in the Pung Cholom dance) and the kartal (cymbals).

Why not the other options?

• ✗Rajasthan is known for bowed instruments such as the kamaicha and the sindhi sarangi.
• ✗Kerala is known for instruments such as the chenda and the edakka.
• ✗Punjab is known for instruments such as the tumbi and the algoza.