Handmade musical instruments in high demand

The demand for handmade musical instruments in Rawalpindi is on the rise, with discussions about skilled instrument manufacturers on Shahullah Dutta Road even reaching foreign countries.

Skilled artisans crafting instruments such as Dholak, Tabla, Flute, Taram, Dab, Rabab, Guitar, Harmonium, Drum, Chitrali Sitar, and other electronic instruments have found significant employment opportunities. In recent years, there has been a substantial increase in the number of shops specialising in handmade musical instruments on Shahullah Dutta Road.

Zain, a craftsman with two decades of experience in crafting musical instruments by hand, attributes the international recognition of Rawalpindi's musical instruments to the dedication of local artisans who continue to craft instruments by hand in this modern age. These skilled individuals have a busy schedule, as 50% of the instruments they produce are ordered by enthusiasts from foreign countries. Zain mentions that locally made musical instruments find their way to destinations like the US, Europe, the UK, UAE, Australia, and other countries.

He believes that with government support, this business has the potential to generate foreign exchange by promoting it on an international scale.

The owner of Lubba Saaz, a shop that has been established on Shahullah Dutta Road for four decades, explained that his father initiated the business four decades ago when there were only a couple of shops on this road where artisans handcrafted musical instruments.

Over time, the number of music enthusiasts has grown, resulting in numerous shops being established in the area. Handcrafted musical instruments produced here are priced from Rs2,000 to Rs0.2 million. The raw materials used in crafting these instruments include animal skins, wire, plastic, wood, silver, copper, and other locally sourced metals.

Craftsmen spend 15 to 20 days to create just one drum. Although handmade instruments take time, they cannot be equaled by modern machine-made counterparts in terms of durability and the quality of music they produce.

Muhammad Shayan, a young man shopping for a guitar on Shahullah Dutta Road, pointed out that the surge in demand for handmade musical instruments can be attributed to social media. Many popular social media artists use these instruments to showcase their talent, and they find these instruments ideal for playing. Additionally, the growing passion for music among the younger generation is a significant factor.

Shayan emphasised the therapeutic value of playing musical instruments, citing how many youngsters earn money by performing at various shows. The instruments found in this market are crafted with great care and style.

Not only enthusiasts but also musical instrument sellers from various cities, come to order instruments from here and sell them at a profit.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 17^th, 2023.