Generations bonded by sacred horn craft

In the narrow lanes of Kaserian Bazar, also known locally as Bhandya Wala bazaar, the rhythmic sound of hammer on brass echoes a centuries-old tradition. Here, the family of Vijay Kumar has been handcrafting the traditional musical instrument ‘Narasingha’ for eight generations, a craft passed down like a sacred inheritance.

Made entirely by hand from brass sheets, the Narasingha is a ceremonial horn used to announce religious processions and is traditionally played by Gawantaris in Udasi Deras. “Our Narasinghas are used not just in Punjab, but also in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh,” said Vijay with quiet pride.

Besides the Narasingha, the family also makes the ‘Nagfani’ and ‘Turhi’—musical instruments typically used at Sufi shrines (mazaars) and Hindu temples. Occasionally, Buddhist Lamas visit the workshop to order the long, curved horn known as ‘Knaal’.

Vijay Kumar traces his lineage back to the founding days of Amritsar. “My ancestors were called here by Guru Ramdas Ji himself,” he said, recalling names like Koju Mal, Amir Chand, Pindi Das and Amolk Ram, who were all master artisans in their time. My grandfather, Dewan Chand, who passed away in 1999, carried the family tradition forward, followed by Baldev Kumar, said Vijay Kumar.

A photograph of their great-great-grandfather still hangs in their modest workshop, a visual testament to a family legacy rooted in craftsmanship and devotion.

“As per our family tradition, I started working as a child,” Vijay said. “I learned everything from my father. His skill was unmatched, his joints never leaked, and his instruments were perfect.” According to him, the durability of their instruments means customers’ usually only need to buy once. “People rarely return unless it’s for a repair,” he added. Each Narasingha begins as a plain brass sheet. The artisans shape it into pipes, then curve and join the sections by hand, using only basic tools and years of experience. “Our fingers are trained by time. It’s all about practice,” Vijay said. Although he admits he’s not a skilled player himself, he says the real magic happens when professional musicians at Udasi Deras perform with the Narasingha.

Despite the dwindling interest in crafts and limited financial returns, the family continues with contentment. “We’re satisfied with what we earn, it’s enough for food, clothes and shelter,” Kumar said.

Amritsar