The Indian classical musical instruments are truly versatile. The dhole or dholak as it is known to masses is example of simple musical instrument which can be used in so many different ways in various musical domains. It is a folk drum used mainly in north India, Bangladesh and Pakistan. All these places have developed their own style of using this musical instrument. Bhangra being one of the dance forms which is performed in combination if ‘dhol’. It is often referred as dholak. There is a difference between dhol and dholak. The dhol is usually the bigger version of dhol. It is also called a bhangra dhol. They are easily available all over UK.

Dhol – Its origin

As per earliest records the origin the dhols may have originated in India. They may have been used from very early days in Hindu temples. However there are some pieces of evidence of their origin from Persia. It may also have some connection with Indo-European connection.

Different techniques of playing dhol–

Dhol is relatively simple musical instrument with tumbler like structure with skin on both sides of instrument. But what adds distinguishing quality to this instrument is numerous playing techniques. In parts of the world where this musical instrument evolved there are several methods of playing the instrument. It can be played with sticks on both sides. As there is a difference in pitch in both sides of a dhol, playing it with sticks needs has specific method. Low pitched side is played on the left side and the high pitch side on the right side. Sometimes low pitch may also be kept in the left side. It is this flexibility that has rendered dhol extreme popularity.

Construction of dhol-

Apart from the playing style the other thing that renders it its versatility is its construction. The key element which brings in a difference in construction of a dhol is its skin. Even a minor change in its size, use of specific wood and dimension change the way a dhol produces sounds. Among this wood is also an important factor. As a dhol has to be carried on shoulder it is important that the wood it is made up of should be of light weight and at the same time it must sturdy enough. It can also be made out of shisham wood. Shisham wood is especially strong. But they are very heavy so they cannot be carried easily. Bhangra dhols are generally not made out of shisham wood as they heavy weight doesn’t allow them to dance with.

Once the wood is decided upon, the next factor which influences a dhol’s performance is the skin used on both sides of the instrument. A bhangra dhol usually has the ends made up of goat skin. Special attention is must be to the thickness of the skin used on both sides. The thickness may vary on either side. The side with thicker skin is responsible for deeper sound. The side with lighter skin produces lighter sound. A dhol must be tightened with ropes laced over it body.