Chenda ചെണ്ട is a cylindrical percussion instrument used widely in the state of Kerala, India. It is also used in some parts of Karnataka where it is called the Chende.
The chenda is mainly played as an accompaniment in the Hindu religious art forms of Kerala. The chenta is used as an accompaniment for Kathakali and Koodiyattam and among many forms of dances and rituals in Kerala. It is also played in a folk dance-drama called Yakshagana which is popular in Karnataka.
A chenda is made out of a cylindrical wooden drum, and has a length of 2 feet and a diameter of 1 foot. Both ends are covered (usually with cow skin). The chenta is suspended from the drummers neck so that it hangs vertically. Using two sticks, the drummer strikes the upper parchment. This instrument is famous for its loud and rigid sound.
Different types of Chenda
* Uruttu chenda - for playing variations.
* Veekku chenda - one which beats the basic rhythm.
* Acchan chenda
Chenda melam
Chenda Keli is performed by Chenda and Maddalam accompanied by elathalam and valantala. This type of keli is used for two purposes.
One it is a part of temple ritual. Another purpose is to inform the people that "there is a Kathakali that going to start today", like a prior notice to the people.
Everybody has a wrong impression that Keli is originated from Thayambaka. But actually it is vice versa. The structure and the musical combinations of Thayambaka is taken from Keli.
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