Murchana Sitar Though the maker is relatively unknown outside of India, this sitar exhibits the characteristics of many other famous makers of the 60's. I have found this instrument very comparable to Rikhi Ram's of the same vintage. The upper tumba of this sitar is really nice as it is made of natural gourd, verses spun wood which came into use later on. Real gourds are often more responsive, and of course lighter in weight. The tabli of this sitar is kind of fascinating, the carving is very thick, but it has a huge sound. The level of carving on this sitar is quite impressive, and the chocolate brown finish complements it very well.