Rubab also known as the lion of instruments is a lute like instrument and   is attested from the 7th century CE. It is mentioned in old Persian books, and many Sufi poets mention it in their poems. It is the traditional instrument of many Central Asian as well as South Asian countries. The rubab was the first instrument used in Sikhism; it was used by Bhai Mardana, companion of the first guru, Guru Nanak.

Rubab is one of the oldest musical instruments in Kashmir and is commonly used to create all forms of music in Kashmir. The body of Rubab is carved out of a single piece of wood, with a head covering a hollow bowl which provides the sound- chamber. The bridge sits on the skin and is held in position by the tension of the strings. It has three melody strings tuned in fourths, two or three drone strings and up to 15 sympathetic strings.