(The N in this name is pronounced like 'n' in 'turn'. )
Arani is an instrument to generate fire, mostly used in vedic rituals. It consists of two woodden pieces of two different trees ( Shami and Aswaththa both considered sacred by Indians), one arranged over the other. One piece is rubbed against the other thus generating fire from friction.
The usage of Arani has its own system and the set of hymns recited while using it are different for different occassions.
It was a must for every Vedic pracitioner in those days.
"After praying to Naaraayana, Nara, Sarasvathi and Vyaasa, then one should read the Jayam."
DEDICATED TO MY DEAR NIECE VYSHNAVI KRISHNA