Idakka

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Using Idakka during Panchavadyam performance - far end.

Idakka is an hour-glass drum from Kerala, south India. They are very similar to the damaru which is found throughout India. Where the damaru is played by rattling knotted cords against the resonators, the idakka is played with a stick. Like the damaru the idakka's pitch may be bent by squeezing the lacing in the middle. It is slung over the left shoulder and the right side is beaten with a stick. The left hand is used for tightening and loosening the tape wound round the middle. Varying the tension of the tape produces variations in tones. Simple melodies extending over one octave can be played in this instrument. The Edakka is one of the five instruments that constitute the panchavadhyam of Kerala.

The Idakka is considered to be a Devavadyam (a very auspicious instrument). During pooja time it is the custom to play the Idakka as an accompaniment to singing.

In Kathakali, the Idakka is played when a female character holds the stage (when the Chenda is not played). In Koodiyattam, the Idakka gives good support to the Mizhavu (the pot drum).

The Idakka is an indispensable accompaniment for other dance forms, most notably Mohiniyattam and Krishnanattam. It has become an accepted member of several dance troupes outside Kerala.

An Idakka artist in action - In the middle.

Of all the tradititional instruments of Kerala, Idakka is regarded as the most difficult to learn and master.There are many institutions in Kerala where Idakka and other instruments are being taught.Majority being situated in Central Kerala(Ernakulam and Thrissur districts).

Of the current lot of Idakka artists, the most famous include Thiruvilvamala Hari,Chottanikara Subhash Marar(also an expert in Timila),Tichur Mohanan and Chendamangalam Unni. The one name which is always synonymous with Idakka and Sopana Sangeetham is the Pallavur Legend - Pallavur Appu Marar.