CultureSeptember 1, 2026

sitar

si-TAHR

Definition

A plucked stringed instrument common in Hindustani classical music, characterized by a long neck and a gourd-shaped resonator.

Etymology

Derived from the Persian word 'sehtar', meaning 'three strings', which traces back to the Sanskrit word 'saptatantri', meaning 'seven-stringed'.

In the news

The article mentions Harrison's use of the sitar to illustrate how his exposure to Indian classical music influenced the musical direction of The Beatles.

Quote of the day by George Harrison: ‘Everything else can wait, but the search for God cannot wait, and lo

Read the full article ↗

The Economic Times

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