Abstract

The state of Jammu & Kashmir is a cultural mosaic which includes culturally distinct three regions Kashmir, Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh. Of the three regions, Kashmir has remained the focus of scholars and visitors alike for its enchanting beauty, cultural continuity and high tradition of scholarship. All this helped natives to develop a holistic view of social and cultural life. Ever since the dawn of history, there has been no dearth of rulers who patronized and promoted all genres of art in Kashmir. Gifted with creative imagination and innovation, Kashmiris developed rich folk traditions and music. Nilamat Purana, a century Mahatmya, fully records this. Based on the review of primary as well as secondary historical texts and discussions with leading Bhand Pather artists, the article attempts to explore the history, theory and playing technique of musical instruments that are used with Bhand Pather-the folk theatre of Kashmir