The Sarangi, a bowed, string instrument of the Indian subcontinent is highly expressive but notoriously difficult to play. The name Sarangi is said to mean “a hundred (sau) colors (rang)”. The reference to the multiplicity of colors is often said to connote to the richness and evocativeness of the sound of the Sarangi.
It is an extremely diversified instrument, closely resembling the human voice. The history of evolution of Sarangi is in itself a tale of romantic hues. Legend has it that once upon a time, a hakim (a physician), weary from his travels, laid down to rest under a tree when his ears caught the melodious notes emanating from the dense forest. A search revealed the dried-up hide of a dead monkey stretched over the branches of a tree. As the gentle winds caressed the hide, soothing sounds wafted forth. Thus, was born the Sarangi, say the legends. Apart from this, no authentic account of the origin of Sarangi is available.
The characteristic feature of Sarangi playing is its uncanny ability to imitate the vocal ornaments such as gamakas (oscillations around the note) and the smooth meend (sliding movements). Though it started out as an accompanying instrument for vocal concerts, in the recent times, it has gained popularity as a solo instrument.

One of the renowned artist is Sri. Sarwar Hussain