Existence of the Punjabi Bhangra Dhol can be dated back to the 15th century. Earlier it was used by Sikhs during the wars and later to celebrate successful harvests. This drum eventually found its way as a core instrument in modern Bhangra music. It is a popular North Indian instrument made from a large wooden shell. Each side of the open side of Dhol is covered with Goat Skins. One side is used for the bass effect and the other for the treble.
The skins are woven together with one piece of cotton rope thread. The width of a Dhol skin is around 15” generally. The player holds Dhol with a strap around his neck. Its crafting resembles that of Dholak, and their lengths are also the same. It’s is also tuned like the Dholak. It is done by moving the metal rings along the strings which increases or reduces the tautness of the skins as per requirement.
Punjabi Bhangra Dhol has the considerably larger diameter (approximately 40 cm) which is larger than diameter of Dholak. The large diameter helps to produce a majestic and powerful bass tone and this bass creates the atmosphere of dance and rhythm and fills dancers with vigor. Mostly the Bhangra Dhol is played with played two drumsticks called dagga and tilli. If you’d like more information about Punjabi Bhangra Dhol, just fill in the form here, your othe inputs are also welcome. if we find them useful from reader’s point of view, we will publish the points with your name.
