Dholak Bihar

The Dholak is the most important folk musical instrument of Bihar. This two-sided drum can be played with bare hands or sticks. Anyone with a sense of rhythm can play the Dholak; no special expertise is required. The rhythm of the Dholak gives the songs and music an element of vigour and energy.

The shell of the Dholak is made from the wood of seesham or mango trees. The smaller face is covered with goatskin to produce sharp notes and the bigger face is covered with buffalo skin for a lower pitch. A lacing of cotton rope running through the body helps to release tension while playing. Steel rings and pegs are twisted inside the laces to attain fine tuning. The Dholak can be played in three ways-placing it on the player's lap, playing it while standing, or pressing it down with one knee while sitting on the floor.