Panche baaja is a set of five traditional Nepali musical instruments that are played during holy ceremonies like marriages. Panche Baajas are usually played by Damais and the Gaine, Dalit ("untouchable) castes in Hindu tradition. A larger band, with nine instruments, is termed Naumati Baja (music with nine instruments). They always have nine different pieces instruments but, there are only six types of instruments. Naumati Baja consists all the instruments used in Panche Baja with an addition of two pipe instruments; either Narsingha or Karnal. Narsingha is a long, curved horn like pipe instrument, popular in Central Nepal. Karnal, the Narsingha of Western Nepal is not curved like Narsingha. Karnal is a straight and big-mouthed natural trumpet. In Naumati Baja, there are two Damaha and two Sahanai to make a total of nine instruments. Folk Music is an indelible part of Nepali culture and living. Widely popular across all age groups, Lok Chautari offers the viewers feel of the Nepali Folk Music be it the popular numbers or the new releases. Tune in to Lok Chautari on Terai Television for the finest Folk Music Videos.
