Significance
Sifung is a long Bodo bamboo flute (27–29 inches) — much longer than other flutes — with one blowing hole and five finger holes, in contrast to the seven-holed Indian bansuri. It produces a softer tone and is central to Bodo music and dance.
History & Cultural Context
A Bodo origin myth recounts how cowherds, watching cattle, placed a crab on a piece of reed; the crab’s claws imprinted marks on which five holes were made, and thus the flute (ciphun) was born. From that day the Sifung was played instead of whistling. It is played on Kherai puja, Garja puja, Bwisagu, Domashi and marriage ceremonies.
Process & Techniques
The Sifung is a long flute with one end closed by its natural bamboo node, made by artisans with hands-on skill developed over generations. It is considered a sustainable instrument in terms of raw material, manufacture and disposal.
Traditional Knowledge
Its distinctive design — one blowing hole and five finger holes — and its soft, peaceful tone set it apart from other flutes. Any Bodo celebration or festival is considered incomplete without it.
GI Registration Details
GI Number
GI 614
Application No.
614
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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