Name: Pena
Type: Chordophones > Lutes > Monochords >
Hornbostel-Sachs No#: 321.221.7
Area: Manipur
Country: India
Region: South Asia

Description: The [in Tangkul: ꯄꯦꯅꯥ Pena ; in Naga: Tingtelia], is a single stringed instrument falling in the spiked-lute category. It is similar to some of the traditional Indian stringed musical instruments such as Ravanahatha, Ubo or the Kenda. Found in various parts of the country.

Etymology: It is generally believed the name of the instrument is a derivation of the ancient Meetei term Pena sheijing Pena. The Naga people call the instrument [tingtelia].

History: The Pena, is considered to be one of the oldest Kangleipak musical instruments. It was once believed to be a part of luxurious living and was played at the royal gatherings. However, the instrument slowly became associated with the folk culture of Manipur and Bangladesh, where its presence became regular during festivals. Manipuri festival of Lai Haraoba fostered the use of the instrument considerably. Later, it also made its presence in the folk theatre.

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