Description:
The Khol is a double headed drum and a member of the mirdanga family.It
is found in the regions of Bengal,
Orissa and Assam. It is a
very popular percussion instrument played amongst the Kirtans of
Bengal to accompany for Kirtan and Bhajans.Modern inovations of this
instrument include a fiberglass khol that is populerized by Krishna
devotees.
Anatomy of the Khol: The bottom or left side of the khol is wider in circumference then the top or right side of the khol. A thick paste of clay containing iron is applied to both drum heads. Straps of animal hide is used to retain the desired tension of the drum from the top to bottom and they hold the drum-heads together. Materials for the body include clay, brass and fiberglass. A leather strap is added on so the performer can hold the drum and play with ease.