History And Origin Of Dolu Musical Instrument
History –
- The dolu is a two-headed drum from Karnataka, India, classified as a membranophone. The heads are made of sheep or goat skin and the frame is made of hon or mango tree wood.
- The instrument is mostly used in theatrical dances with religious or mythological themes. It is carried by means of a belt or harness and struck with the hand or a small stick. It is loud, low-pitched and not particularly tonal.
Origin –
- In Hindu mythology, Dolu originated as the divine couple Shiva and Parvati.
- To pass the time, Shiva and Parvati played a game and placed a bet. Whichever of them lost the bet was to leave Kailash to remain anonymous on Bhuloka (Earth). Shiva lost the bet and took the form of a stone and went to a cave.
- Mayamurti, an ardent devotee of Shiva, guarded the cave. With time Parvati got fed up with managing the universe and decided to send Vayu in search of Shiva, but it was in vain.
- Narada located the cave, killed Mayamurthy and forced ‘Shiva’ to return to Kailasa.
- Shiva, unwilling to leave behind the dead body of his trusted and beloved protector, made a dolu out of the dead body and took it to Kailash. For reasons of its origin, the dolu is a popular musical instrument among Shaivites.
Use –
- Used in community group dances and folk ensembles.
Dolu’s Questions Answered
What is the use of dolu?
Dolu is used in community group dances and folk ensembles.
Dolu is played in which state?
Dolu is played in the state of Karnataka.
Dolu is made of which metal?
The head of the dolu is made of sheep or goat skin and the frame is made of hon or mango tree wood.
