Introduction
The Mridangam is more than just a percussion instrument—it is considered a sacred symbol of rhythm and devotion in South Indian classical music. As the primary drum of Carnatic music, its deep resonance and intricate tonal quality make it stand out among percussion instruments. But behind every performance lies an extraordinary process: the art of making the Mridangam.
The making of a Mridangam is not a simple manufacturing activity—it is a craft tradition passed down through generations, combining precision, patience, and spiritual reverence. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of Mridangam making, the materials used, and why this ancient art is considered sacred.
· The word Mridangam comes from Sanskrit: Mrid (clay/earth) + Anga (body). The earliest versions were made of hardened clay.
· Over centuries, artisans shifted to jackfruit wood, known for its durability and tonal richness.
· The craft is traditionally practiced by specialized families in South India, especially in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh.
· For artisans, the process is not merely technical—it is devotional work, treating the Mridangam as an offering to music and the divine.
A traditional Mridangam requires natural, carefully chosen materials:
1. Wood (Koodu/Body): Usually jackfruit wood, chosen for strength and acoustic properties.
2. Animal Skins: Goat or cowhide for the drumheads.
3. Syahi Paste: A special mixture of rice paste, iron filings, and starch for the black patches.
4. Ropes/Leather Straps: Used for tightening and tuning.
5. Paste Mixtures: Applied to the left head (Thoppi) for deeper bass sound.
Each material is selected with care, ensuring durability and sound precision.
· The jackfruit tree is most preferred because of its density and resonance.
· The log is carefully chosen, ensuring no cracks or hollow spots.
· Artisans believe the purity of the wood directly affects the sound quality.
· The log is carved into a barrel-shaped hollow shell using traditional hand tools.
· The shape must be symmetrical for balanced sound output.
· The inside is smoothed to create proper resonance.
👉 This step takes great skill, as the thickness of the shell controls both tone and durability.
· Two sides are prepared:
o Valanthalai (Right Head): Produces sharp treble tones.
o Thoppi (Left Head): Produces deep bass.
· Layers of goat or cowhide are cut, dried, and shaped into circular pieces.
· Multiple layers are combined to strengthen the head.
· A unique paste called syahi is applied to the center of both drumheads.
· Ingredients: rice flour, iron filings, and natural starch.
· The syahi controls vibration, giving the Mridangam its distinct tonal clarity.
· Application is done with great care and often requires years of practice.
· The prepared heads are fixed to both ends of the wooden body.
· Strong leather straps or ropes are used to hold them tightly.
· The tension in these straps controls the basic tuning.
· A special temporary paste mixture (made of flour, semolina, and water) is applied before performances.
· This deepens the bass sound, making the Mridangam more versatile.
· The Mridangam is tuned by tightening or loosening the leather straps.
· Wooden pegs are sometimes inserted under the straps to fine-tune pitch.
· The right head (valanthalai) is usually tuned to the tonic (sa) of the main artist.
Making a Mridangam is a sacred responsibility. Artisans:
· Often chant prayers before beginning the process.
· Follow traditional methods without machines, ensuring authenticity.
· Take weeks or months to complete one Mridangam.
This dedication ensures that each instrument is unique, carrying the soul of the craftsman.
1. Availability of Jackfruit Wood – Increasing deforestation has made sourcing quality wood difficult.
2. Animal Skins – With modern restrictions, artisans struggle to obtain traditional materials.
3. Time and Labor – The process is slow and labor-intensive compared to factory production.
4. Declining Artisans – Younger generations often move away from this traditional profession.
Despite challenges, many families continue this art to preserve heritage.
· Superior Sound Quality: Handcrafted Mridangams produce richer resonance than factory-made versions.
· Spiritual Connection: Made with devotion, considered offerings to the divine.
· Cultural Preservation: Every handmade Mridangam sustains centuries-old knowledge.
· Durability: Traditional methods ensure instruments last decades with proper care.
While tradition dominates, some innovations are being introduced:
· Synthetic Skins: To replace animal hides in certain regions.
· Machine Assistance: For carving wood, though purists still prefer hand tools.
· Export Quality: Mridangams are now made for international musicians with customized tuning.
· Eco-Friendly Efforts: Some makers experiment with alternative sustainable woods.
Yet, the essence of Mridangam making remains deeply traditional and spiritual.
The making of a Mridangam is not merely a technical process—it is a sacred art form. From selecting the right jackfruit wood to carefully applying the syahi, every step reflects patience, precision, and devotion.
This ancient craft is more than creating an instrument; it is about preserving India’s musical and cultural heritage. Each Mridangam carries the soul of the artisan, the blessing of tradition, and the eternal rhythm of the divine.
In a world of mass production, the handcrafted Mridangam stands as a symbol of authenticity, spirituality, and timeless music.