Maddalam of Palakkad Kerala Percussion Musical Instrument Type of Dholak
MRP Rs 22,000.00
The maddalam or madhalam (Malayalam) is a drum made out of the wood of the jackfruit tree. It has two sides for playing, made out of leather, and has different kind of sounds on each side. The maddalam is a heavy instrument which is hung around the waist of the person playing, and the player stands all the while to perform
- Size : 24 inch
- Primary Material : Wood & Leather
- Item Weight : 12 kg
- Usage : Festivals / Religious art forms
The Palakkad Maddalam, thought to have been created in the 13th century, is regarded as a holy percussion instrument. This is because when it is struck, it produces the Om sound. Moreover, it is claimed to have been a part of Shiva's dance. Maddalam was made in the Palakkad district of Kerala.The maddalam is a heavy instrument which is hung around the waist of the person playing, and the player stands all the while to perform. The maddalam is a vital instrument in traditional Kerala percussion ensembles like Panchavadyam, Keli and Kathakali orchestra. This Maddalam is a cylindrical wooden drum. Both sides of the Maddalam is covered with skin. Although the Maddalam has two faces, only one surface of it is beaten. The drummer suspends the Maddalam from his neck such that it hangs more or less vertically and with two sticks held in both the hands, he strikes the upper.