Morchang - Jew's Harp

This instrument belogs to Langa Community of western Rajasthan. It is said that this instrument was first used by the shepherds while they took there animals for grazing. Later it was adopted by the Langaa community. Morchang is Jews harp is an elastic thin iron strip called the tongue a fixed to a circular iron ring. This strip projects a little beyond the right at one end at the other end is slightly curled. It passes right along the centre of the ring and between the two arms. The instrument is held in the left hand and the fork portion is held in the mouth. The curled end of the tongue is plucked by the forefinger of the right hand. The cavity of the mouth acts as resonator. When played along with the Dholak, the combined effect is delightful and pleasing.