Veena Facts
The veena is a plucked string instrument with origins in ancient India. It’s used primarily in Carnatic classical music (South Indian) and Hindustani classical music (North Indian). The earliest veenas were referenced as far back as 15th century BC, and were similar to harps.
There are several types of veenas–some with frets and some without. Saraswati and chitra veenas used in Carnatic music are in the lute family. Rudra and vichitra veenas used in Hindustani music are technically zithers.
Depending on one’s playing technique and use of amplification devices, the instrument has a wonderful sound for both traditional and contemporary music.
More Veena Facts
Fun Fact
A person who performs on this string instrument is called a vainika.
Notable vainikas include Veenai Dhanammal, Veenai Gayathri, Rugmini Gopalakrishnan, Jayanthi Kumaresh, Nirmala Rajasekar, Veene Sheshanna, Veena Subbanna, Prince Rama Varma, and Tirupati Srivani Yalla.
Goddess Saraswati
Indian Handicraft Cotton Tapestry
Goddess Saraswati Cotton Tapestry
Listen to the Veena
Performed by Nirmala Rajasekar
Often called a “Carnatic Ambassador,” Nirmala Rajasekar is an internationally renowned veena virtuoso. She has performed south Indian classical music throughout the world, earning many awards along the way. Nirmala also enjoys collaborative projects with other music traditions including western classical and jazz.
We Love Veenas
Shop for the Best Veena Gifts
We’ve created more than 3,000 products for string instrument players and music lovers. Find a unique gift for your favorite vainika.
Beware of copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Veena collection.
Find a Veena Online
Lakshman Sruthi Joint Veena
Product details:
- Handmade in India
- Good sound quality
- Unique look, beautifully crafted from Jack Fruit Wood
- Includes one set of Veena strings, Meetti, Veena stand, Veena cover, Mela cover
Generic Lakshman Sruthi Joint VeenaCrafted from Well Seasoned Jack Fruit Wood
Shop for Veena Gifts
Would you like to sell our string instrument products online and earn referral fees? Here’s how to become an affiliate.
Shop for Veenas and Accessories
Disclosure: Some of the links on this website are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, we will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.
Explore String Kings Music






1 comment for “Veena Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts”