A sitar is a plucked stringed instrument that is commonly used in classical Indian music. It has a long, hollow neck with frets and a rounded gourd-like body, and it is played by sitting cross-legged and plucking the strings with a plectrum, or pick. The sitar has between 18-20 strings, with six or seven main playing strings and the rest serving as drone strings.

The sitar is known for its distinctive sound, which is characterized by its resonant, metallic tone and the use of glissando and vibrato techniques. It is often used as a solo instrument in Indian classical music, and it is also used in ensemble settings, such as with tabla drums and other Indian instruments.

The sitar has a long history in Indian music, dating back to the 13th century. It has been played by many famous musicians, including Ravi Shankar and Vilayat Khan, and it has also been used in contemporary Western music, such as in the music of the Beatles.

Overall, the sitar is an important instrument in Indian classical music and is recognized for its unique sound and technical demands. It continues to be a popular instrument for both traditional and modern music genres.