The Bhapang is a plucked monochord percussion instrument. One of the
many instruments given the title as “talking drum”. It is found in Rajasthan,
Maharashtra, Gujarat and Punjab where it is known by its regional names.
Chongar in Maharashtra, Apang in Gujarat and Tumba in the Punjab. The Bhapang
originally comes from the Mewati community in the Alwar district. When bhapang
is played the musician grasps a wooden handle that is attached to a string. The
same string is attached to the membrane. During performance the drum emits a
oscillating tone that gives the instrument its particular voice. It is one of
the instruments used to accompany vocals during the performances of Bhajans
“spiritual devotional songs”. The construction of this instrument is quite
simple it is made from a gourd where a hole is carved. A membrane of animal
skin is attached with tacks to hold the instrument together. A string is
attached from handle to membrane. Five small metal bells are attached to the
handle. These instruments are made either plane or with ornamentation as
viewed on my specimen.
Information by Deepshikha nigam sood
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