Chenda
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Chenda is a cylindrical percussion instrument used widely in the state of Kerala, India. It is also used in some parts of Karnataka and where it is called Chende.
Chenda is mainly used as an accompaniment in Hindu religious art forms of Kerala. Chenda is used as accompaniment for Kathakali, Koodiyattam among many forms of dances and rituals in Kerala. It is also used in a folk dance-drama called Yakshagana popular in Karnataka.
[edit] Using chenda
A chenda is made out of a cylindrical wooden drum, and has a length of 2 feet and a diameter of 1 foot. Both side of it is covered with skin (usually cow skin). Chenda is suspended in drummers neck so that it hangs vertically facing the upper parchment of the covered skin. using two stiks the drummer strikes the upper parchment.
[edit] Different types of chenda
- Uruttu chenda - for playing variations.
- Veekku chenda - one which beats the basic rhythm.
- Acchan chenda