An Indian reed instrument, it is a conical instrument with a double reed on one end and a flared bell on the other. Measuring between 30 and 50 cm in length, the wooden body of the shehnai consists of six to eight keyless finger-holes which are used to play different notes. It is considered to signal sanctity and auspiciousness and is prominently played in parts of northern India at weddings. It is one of the nine instruments that are a part of the Naubat or the traditional ensemble of nine instruments used in royal courts.