Significance
Gongona is a Bodo jaw harp — a flat bamboo reed instrument (6–7 inches long) played by gripping the solid end with the teeth and striking the free end with the fingers to produce a distinctive twanging, resonating sound. It is mostly played by women and girls during Bwisagu and Domashi.
History & Cultural Context
The Gongona is an important instrument in Bodo folk music — celebrations and festivals are incomplete without it — and has been played on international platforms to represent Bodo culture and tradition.
Process & Techniques
The centre of the instrument has resonating lines carved so they do not touch the external semi-flexible frame. Pitch is tuned by adjusting the length, width and base of the resonating lines. The player holds it to the mouth and strikes only the semi-flexible frame; the movement of air and the contour of the mouth change its timbre.
Traditional Knowledge
A sustainable instrument made from native bamboo, the Gongona is crafted in a compact style that can be carried and played easily, using skills passed from generation to generation.
GI Registration Details
GI Number
GI 616
Application No.
616
Class
Class 15
Filing Date
29 August 2022
Registration Date
March 2024
Registered Applicant
Bodo Musical Artisan's Association
Facilitated By
Bodo Culture and Heritage Preservation Board (BCHPB)
Geographic Origin
Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), Assam
Verification Status: VERIFIED
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