Introduction And History Of The Madal Musical Instrument
Introduction
- Madal or Madal is a Nepali folk instrument. The madal has a cylindrical body with a slight bulge in the center and heads on both ends, one head being larger than the other.
- It is usually played horizontally in a seated position, with both heads played simultaneously. The Madal is the national instrument of Nepal and forms the backbone of most Nepalese folk music.
- Renowned Nepali musician Ranjit Gazmer introduced the instrument to Bollywood music when he started working under Rahul Dev Burman, and used it in several Bollywood songs such as Hum Dono Do Premi and Kanchi Re Kanchi Re. There is also a madal drum used by some tribal groups.
History and Nomenclature
- Madal originated in the Magar community of Nepal. The name Madal is said to have come from the earlier musical instrument mardal (Nepali: मर्डल), which in turn derived its name from the mridunga, a classical Indian musical instrument.
- In Palpa district of Nepal, it is known as Rani Madal. In the Nepalbhasa language in the Kathmandu Valley, but in the context of the people, it is called Maga Khi.
Construction
- Typically, a wooden log is carved to form a hollow cavity, called a house (Nepali: घर).
- Drum heads are made of two-layer goat skin, and a black paste made of flour, iron filings and eggs is burnt in a circular area in the center of each head.
- This hoop adds weight to the head and significantly alters the sound of the drum, giving it a bell-like quality.
- The heads are attached to the body of the drum by leather straps running the length of the body, and there is an additional loose strip of leather that can be looped behind the performer’s knees while playing. The large and small ends are often referred to as male and female.
Similarities
- Similar instruments called modals or mondals are found throughout central India and Bangladesh.
- Use
- Madal is mainly used to keep the rhythm in Nepali folk music. It is very popular and widely used as a hand drum in Nepal.
Madal Questions Answer–
What is the size of the Madal?
The shape of the Madal is cylindrical.
In which state is Madal played?
Madal is played in the state of Nepal.
Of which metal is the Madal made?
Madal is a tabla instrument made of clay and leather.
How do you use the Madal?
The madal is mainly used for rhythm-keeping in Nepali folk music. It is very popular and widely used as a hand drum in Nepal.
