Kangling

The kangling is a Tibetan wind instrument. These ancient instruments, of Indian origin, were historically crafted from a human thighbone.
Nuns playing kangling at Nagi Gompa. Image courtesy of Jampa Palden.

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The kangling is a Tibetan wind instrument. These ancient instruments, of Indian origin, were historically crafted from a human thighbone. This ‘thighbone trumpet’ is often used in rituals concerning wrathful deities. A blast of this trumpet produces a piercing, bright tone. These days they are often made of precious metals instead of human or animal bones.

Nuns playing kangling at Nagi Gompa. Image courtesy of Jampa Palden.

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