DIVINITY FOR WORSHIP OF LOCAL DEITY IN HIMACHAL PRADESH

DHANERA: A INCENSE POT

Dhanera/ Incense pot is a silver pot on one side and a handle on the other side. Dhanera is used for worship the deity by placing "Ghee" and fragrance plant leafs over the burning charcoals in incense pot. 

MACE: POWER AND AUTHORITY

The mace represents the Royal authority and Sovereignty of local deity. The Mace is carried in front of the local deity procession during fair/festival/fest. The Maces symbolizes the power and authority of local deity over the villages and independence from external authority.
           

NARSINGHA:

Nar-Singha also called Ransinga which is an ancient and royal instrument and played in all part of Himachal Pradesh during the procession of deities and their worship. It is made of metals like brass or silver, it has the shape of the English letter 'S' consists of two parts which are joined together. Both two parts are of the shape of English alphabet 'C'.  Ran-Singa produce all the seven "Swaras". This musical instrument is known by various names in different parts of Indian States. As the name signifies the instrument is in the shape of serpent and the flare is the face as also the hood with an open mouth including the split tongue.    

KARNAL:

Karnal is also a royal instrument of divinity and played most part of the Himachal Pradesh. This musical instrument is very ancient and used like the Ransinga. It has a straight body made of brass, copper or silver. Only two and three high notes can be played on it. It has a prominent bell resembling a datura flower. It is used during deities processing and local the occasions of local marriages.

SHEHNAI:

Literally Shehnai means "the Emperor of the Wind instruments" and is the perfect musical instrument, capable of producing the subtlest notes. It is made of wood or metal. It is played during marriages and local deities procession.     

       

NAGARA:

Narara is made of copper and is covered with goatskin that is tightened with the strings running across the body to produce a heavy and deep sound. The Nagara is played with two sticks and is played on deities worship, festival/ fairs/ fest, social occasions (marriages).   

                                            DHOL:

Dhol is a very popular musical instrument also played during deities worship, festival/ fairs/ fest, social occasions (marriages). It has big round hollow body and is made either of wood/brass/silver. Both the open ends are covered with goatskin that is tightened with the strings running across the body of the Dhol. It is played with hand and stick.                                                            

PC: Dr Lalit Mohan