Mrdangam is one of the oldest and popular percussion instruments of India, Mrdangam is used as an accompaniment for classical music and dance performances. The instrument is a cylindrical instrument, with a slightly bulged central portion, which is hollow within the inside. It is made of wood, about 2 ft long. Both the openings of the cylindrical portion are fastened with leather. The Mrdangam is played with bare hands.
The right side of the Mrdangam is called valanthala and the left is called the idamthala. The right side is smaller in circumference compared to the left. The shruthi or the pitch of the instrument is adjusted by applying certain mixtures to the leather face. Depending on the size of the Mrdangam, the Shruthi or pitch varies.