It's True !

The dotara -- one of the most important folk instruments used in various genres of folk music throughout the land of Bengal, has two main forms -- the Bangla and the Bhawaiya. The Bangla form originated in the Rahr Bangla region, where it is still played. It has metal strings, which give it a brighter tone than other instruments played in the area. The bhawaiya form is almost extinct in contemporary times and has a more primeval beginning than its bangla cousin. The strings are its striking feature, being either made of thick cotton strings or more popularly of catgut, giving it a more bass timbre. This instrument is widely used in the Bhawaiya, Jaalpariya and Mahishali forms of folk music, prevailing in and around the Bengal Province.