The Thanjavur veena is the first musical instrument in the country to get the Geographical Indication (GI) tag (Andhra Pradesh’s Bobbili Veena has also received GI tag).
- There are four types of veena; Rudra veena, Vichitra veena, Saraswati veena and Chitra veena.
- While Rudra veena and Vichitra veena are popular in Hindustani classical music, Saraswati veena and Chitra veena are used in Carnatic classical music.
- Thanjavur is the only place where Saraswati veena is made. Saraswathi, the goddess of learning and arts, is portrayed with a veena.
- The production of veena, handcrafted with skill and perfection, requires dedication, time and devotion. Jackfruit wood is used to make veena.
