---
url: 'https://kalasudha.com/en-int/faq/instruments-artforms/what-is-the-difference-between-an-ekanda-and-an-ottu-veena'
title: 'What is the difference between an ekanda and an ottu veena?'
author:
  name: rajeevk
  url: 'https://kalasudha.com/en-int/user/fce96177fd193d3a'
date: '2026-10-19T15:10:00+00:00'
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summary: 'An ekanda veena is carved from one block of wood and an ottu veena joins separate parts, and sources treat the ekanda as the higher grade.'
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 FAQ · Instruments & artforms

# What is the difference between an ekanda and an ottu veena?

 Updated 19 October 2026

 

An ekanda **[Saraswati veena](/en-int/instrument/veena)** has its resonator, neck and head carved from one block of wood; an ottu veena, also called sada or khanda, joins parts made separately. Retail and museum sources treat the ekanda as the higher grade. Makers hollow the main resonator from jackfruit wood, favouring trees of about 40 to 50 years.



 

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