Chenda

Chenda is the main percussion instrument used in almost all festivals and celebrations in India. Now it is also used in public campaign programs. It is widely used in Kerala, Karnataka, Tulu Nadu, and Tamil Nadu. Other Indian states also have it, but the name, shape, and sound are different. Chenda is main in various rhythms such as Dhruvam, Panchari, Adantha, Anjadanta, Chemba, Chembada, and Tripuda in Kerala. It is an indispensable percussion instrument in world-famous Kathakali. The Chenda has two sides known as Valamthala means right head and Edamthala means left head. The left head is used for playing this instrument and the right head is used for tuning. The right head is the Deva instrument and the left head is demonic instrument. So, the right head is used in temples and Kathakali and the left side are used in other programs. Chenda is made up of jackfruit tree wood. White Teak and Cassia fistula wood is also used to make this instrument. The right head and left head is made up of wood skin. The two sides are made by four or five layers of skin.