Discover the Tabla: India’s Rhythmic Treasure

India with its rich cultural heritage and centuries-old musical traditions, is the birthplace of some of the world’s most intricate and melodious instruments. Among these, the tabla shines as a beacon of rhythm and musicality, celebrated across classical, folk, and contemporary genres.

This post pays tribute to the legendary Late Ustad Zakir Hussain, a maestro whose genius elevated the tabla to unprecedented global acclaim. Known for his unparalleled skill, innovation, and charisma, Ustad Zakir Hussain not only mastered the instrument but also redefined its role on the world stage. He seamlessly bridged the gap between Indian classical music and international audiences, collaborating with artists across genres to showcase the tabla’s versatility. His performances introduced millions to the intricate beauty of Indian rhythm, earning him accolades and establishing the tabla as a global instrument.

My earliest memory of him playing the tabla dates back to the iconic TV commercial from the 1990s.

Let’s explore the making of this iconic instrument. The craftsmanship behind the tabla is a fascinating blend of skill, tradition, and artistry.

Origins of the Tabla

Before delving into the intricate process of its creation, it is essential to explore the fascinating origins of the tabla. The tabla, a pair of hand-played drums, is believed to have evolved from the ancient Indian drum pakhawaj, a barrel-shaped percussion instrument that played a prominent role in classical music and temple rituals.

The exact origin of the tabla is often debated among historians and musicologists, with some attributing its creation to Amir Khusrau, the 13th-century poet and musician in the court of Sultan Alauddin Khilji. According to legend, Khusrau is said to have split the pakhawaj into two smaller drums, thus creating the tabla. However, this theory lacks substantial historical evidence and is widely regarded as a myth.
Another perspective suggests that the tabla as we know it today took shape during the Mughal era, particularly in the 18th century, under the patronage of Emperor Akbar and his successors. This period saw the flourishing of Hindustani classical music, where the tabla was refined and integrated into musical traditions like khayal, thumri, and ghazal.

The tabla’s design and playing technique also reflect influences from Persian and Central Asian musical traditions, brought to India by the Mughals. Over centuries, it became an indispensable part of Hindustani classical music, accompanying instruments like the sitar, sarod, and vocal performances, while also carving a niche in folk and devotional music.
Today, the tabla stands as a symbol of rhythmic sophistication, embodying centuries of cultural exchange and artistic evolution.

A tabla set consists of two drums:

• Dayan (Right Drum): Made of wood, usually sheesham or neem, it produces higher-pitched tones. The wood is aged to reduce moisture content and prevent warping.
• Bayan (Left Drum): Made of metal, often brass, copper, or aluminum, it produces deeper, bass-rich tones. The quality and thickness of the metal impact the richness of the sound.

Each component is crafted with precision to produce the tabla’s unique sound.

The Crafting Process

Selection of Materials
The journey begins with sourcing the finest materials. The right drum requires sturdy hardwood, which is shaped into a hollow drum using traditional methods. For the left drum, craftsmen use metal sheets that are molded into a bowl-like shape. The selection of wood and metal greatly influences the tonal quality of the instrument.

Shaping the Drums
Craftsmen shape the dayan on a lathe machine to achieve a perfectly cylindrical body. Precision is key, as the inner dimensions influence resonance and tonal clarity. The bayan, on the other hand, is hand-beaten to form a semi-spherical shape. This process requires immense skill to create a consistent sound chamber.

Crafting the Drumheads (Pudis)
The drumheads, or pudis are the most intricate component of the tabla. They are made from multiple layers of treated animal skin, typically goat or buffalo. Buffalo skin is preferred for durability, while goat skin adds flexibility.
The central black spot, known as syahi, is a unique feature that gives the tabla its distinct tonal quality. A paste made from iron filings, starch, and adhesive is applied in concentric circles. This black spot is responsible for producing the tabla’s rich harmonic overtones. The application requires exceptional precision, as any irregularities can distort the sound.

Assembling the Tabla
The pudi is stretched over the drum’s opening and fastened with braided rawhide laces. These laces are looped through holes in the drumhead, running down the sides to connect with wooden dowels at the base. The dowels are hammered to tighten or loosen the laces, fine-tuning the pitch of the drum. This step demands expert tuning skills, often done by ear.

Final Touches and Tuning
Each drum is tuned meticulously to match specific pitches, often requiring adjustments with a tuning hammer. The dayan typically aligns with the tonic note (Sa) of the musical scale. Many tablas feature polished surfaces, engraved designs, or even decorative inlays, reflecting the cultural and artistic heritage of the craft.

The entire process, often carried out by master artisans in small workshops, embodies a deep respect for tradition, with knowledge passed down through generations. A finely crafted tabla can take weeks or even months to complete, making it not just a musical instrument but a testament to centuries of craftsmanship and dedication.

Sustainability and Challenges

The tabla-making industry, rooted in tradition, faces growing challenges in the modern era. One of the major issues is the availability of raw materials.

• Wood: The hardwoods used for the dayan, such as rosewood or teak, are becoming increasingly scarce due to deforestation and strict environmental regulations. Sustainable forestry practices are being encouraged, but access to high-quality wood remains limited.
• Animal Skins: The use of goat and buffalo skins for the drumheads has raised ethical concerns, and stricter regulations on animal by-products have impacted their supply. Additionally, younger artisans are exploring synthetic alternatives, but these often fail to replicate the tonal richness of natural skins.
• Metal: The quality of brass and copper used in the bayan has also declined, with artisans frequently resorting to lower-grade metals or alloys, which affect the instrument’s durability and sound.

The rise of machine-made alternatives poses another challenge. While machine-crafted tablas are faster to produce and more affordable, they lack the nuanced sound quality and personalization that handcrafted tablas offer. This has led to a decline in demand for traditional tabla craftsmanship, putting the livelihoods of artisans at risk.

To address these issues, various initiatives are underway:

• Promoting sustainable sourcing of materials, such as using certified wood and exploring eco-friendly alternatives to animal skins.
• Encouraging younger generations to join the craft through government schemes and training programs.
• Raising awareness about the value of handcrafted tablas to support artisans financially and culturally.
• Incorporating innovation, such as hybrid tablas that combine traditional craftsmanship with modern materials, to appeal to contemporary musicians.

Despite these challenges, efforts by non-profit organizations, cultural festivals, and even individual musicians have played a role in preserving and sustaining this heritage craft.

Conclusion

The tabla is far more than a musical instrument; it is a living symbol of India’s artistic and cultural heritage. Each rhythmic beat tells a story of the dedication and skill of master artisans who have honed their craft through generations. The intricate craftsmanship, from the shaping of the drums to the precise tuning of the syahi, reflects a legacy deeply intertwined with India’s history and musical evolution.
In a rapidly modernizing world, appreciating and supporting traditional crafts like tabla-making is more important than ever. By choosing hand-crafted tablas or encouraging sustainable practices, we help keep this art alive for future generations.

The next time you hear the tabla’s enchanting resonance, let it be a reminder of the passion and perseverance of the artisans who bring this instrument to life. It is not just a tool for music—it is a masterpiece, a cultural treasure, and a testament to the enduring spirit of Indian artistry.

Also, check-out this informational article on the making process of Tabla : Making of Tabla – Ahmednagar, Maharashtra

Note: Click on the images and videos for the original links.