dhol

The dhol is a double-headed barrel drum widely used in the Indian subcontinent and surrounding regions. It is a prominent percussion voice in folk, devotional, and celebratory music, especially in Punjab, Sindh, Nepal, Bangladesh, and parts of Sri Lanka.

The shell is typically wooden or metal, barrel-shaped, with two drumheads made of animal skin—often goatskin—secured with cords or hoops. The two heads produce distinct pitches, enabling rhythmic patterns through cross-sticking. The drum is tuned by tightening or loosening the ropes around the shell. A strap or harness allows the drummer to play while standing or marching.

Dhol is played with two sticks, usually of different thickness, one in each hand. The right-hand head is struck with a thinner stick for a higher tone, the left-hand head with a thicker stick for a deeper tone; players can accent with fingers or the palm near the edge. Rhythms include bol patterns used in Bhangra and other folk styles.

In India and Pakistan, the dhol is central to weddings, processions, and folk performances; in Nepal it appears in traditional dances and festivals. It accompanies dances such as Bhangra, Garba, and related styles, and is often paired with other percussion or melodic instruments.

The dhol is distinct from the smaller dholak. In contemporary music and fusion genres, the instrument is sometimes amplified or sampled. Regional variations in size, tone, and playing technique reflect local musical traditions.