Maddalam

Maddalam is a barrel shaped drum. It is made from the wood of the jackfruit tree.

The drumheads are made of thick layers of leather. The left side of the maddalam produces resonating notes and the right side produces notes to maintain the rhythm. The skin on the left side is covered with a layer of black paste before playing.

The performer wears it horizontally around his waist. He remains in a standing position and uses both hands to play on it.

The Maddalam is used as an accompaniment for Kathakali performances.