The wire of 'Jodi' in Tanpura is played by which finger?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 2:
The wire of 'Jodi' in the Tanpura refers specifically to the instrument's two middle strings, typically the second and third, which are tuned to the keynote *Shadja* ('Sa') and form the core of the continuous, overtonal drone. The classical playing technique for the Tanpura dictates a precise fingering pattern for the right hand to maintain a uniform, un-metrical flow. In this method, the Index finger, known as *Tarjni*, is traditionally responsible for plucking the second, third, and fourth strings in sequence. Since the two middle 'Jodi' strings fall into this group, they are struck with the *Tarjni* finger as part of the continuous, circular plucking motion, which emphasizes the stability of the tonic 'Sa'.

The incorrect option is 1:
The finger known as *Madhyama* is the middle finger. According to the established technique, the middle finger is reserved exclusively for playing the first string of the Tanpura, which is most often tuned to *Pancham* ('Pa') or occasionally *Madhyam* ('Ma') depending on the *Raga*. The function of the *Madhyama* is to pluck only this string, followed by the *Tarjni* playing the remaining three, thus creating the characteristic four-beat cycle of the drone. Using the *Madhyama* for the 'Jodi' wires (strings two and three) would violate this essential alternating pattern and disrupt the balance and uniformity of the drone.

The incorrect option is 3 and 4:
The fingers *Anamika* (Ring finger) and *Kanistha* (Little finger) are not typically used for plucking the main strings of the Tanpura. The proper technique involves a very light, rolling, or striking action with the fleshy part of the finger tips, and only the Index (*Tarjni*) and Middle (*Madhyama*) fingers are engaged in this core action. The *Anamika* and *Kanistha* fingers might rest near the instrument's neck to help stabilize the hand, but they do not participate in producing the drone. Their exclusion ensures the requisite delicacy and consistency of the sound production from the *Jod* wires.