Hindustani bansuri vs Carnatic flute

Both are bamboo flutes from the same Tirupati workshop. The difference is fingering and the music they are built for.

Hindustani bansuri

A Hindustani bansuri has six holes. We make it in top, middle, small, and bass lengths so you can match the register of the raga. The middle flute in D is the everyday concert size. See the full Hindustani flutes range.

Carnatic flute

A Carnatic flute has eight holes and the fingering used for South Indian classical music. Middle flutes cover the usual kriti register. Bass flutes go lower. Start with a Carnatic middle flute in D or open all Carnatic flutes.

If you are unsure which system you play, ask before you buy. A six-hole flute will not feel like an eight-hole flute in the same key. Our FAQ and contact page are the quickest way to check.