The Tirhio is a traditional wind instrument of the Santhal tribe of Bihar. Classified as a thick-walled cylindrical bamboo tube, one end is supposedly closed by a bamboo knot. In addition to six finger holes along the body, the instrument has a separate blowing hole to produce pleasing melodic tunes.
The Santhal tribe, being one of the largest indigenous communities in eastern India, mostly abides around the states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal. The tirhio is probably the most cherished instrument of the Santhals and holds a sacred position in their folk music and cultural traditions. It forms a basis for making rhythmic, soul-stirring music that supports the Santhali songs and dances during ceremonies, dances, and social gatherings.
The instrument is rarely seen or heard outside the Santhal community, as the art of playing it is handed down from generation to generation. The instrument remains key to the Santhal identity and their art of storytelling, serving as a proud legacy of their rich traditions in music. The very manner in which the instrument is made-the bamboo being an obvious choice-not only connects with the workings of nature but also with sustainable traditions of craftsmanship.