The Mamallapuram Dance Festival is held every year More...

          Bharatanatyam
      Folk Dance
    Kuchipudi

VEENA  is a stringed instrument. It consists of a large round body hollowed out of a block of wood. The stem of the instrument is also made of wood. The bridge is placed on the flat top of the body of the veena and the instrument’s neck is attached to the stem. It is usually shaped and carved like the head of the dragon or a swan. The veena has seven strings. There are four are main strings that pass over the frets and are attached to the pegs at the neck. The other strings are used as side strings for rhythmic accompaniment. These strings pass over an arched bridge made of brass. These lie flat over the top of the body of the veena and are secured to the main bridge.

MRIDANGAM is a percussion instrument and is usually tuned with a small wooden block and a heavy stone.  The block is placed against the rawhide weaving and struck with the stone.  The manner of striking may either raise or lower the pitch.  It is generally tuned to the tone of the piece being performed. The technique for sitting and playing this instrument is shown below.  One sits cross-legged with the left foot below and the right foot over it and slightly extended.  The weight of the mridangam rests upon the right foot and ankle.  Since the instrument is very heavy it is also cushioned by some rolled up cloth that placed at the right foot.  The right hand plays the smaller head, while the left hand plays the head with the temporary application of flour or chalk powder.