Mizhavu - A production of expert artistans

The Mizhavu or Mizhav is a sacred copper drum played as an accompanying percussion instrument in the performing arts of Kerala like the Koodiyattam and the Koothu.

It is played by the members of the Nambiar community in the temples and at Koothambalams.

The Mizhavu has the shape of a big pot and its mouth is covered with leather. Making it in a traditional way is a time-consuming process, involving many steps like heating the copper plate, shaping it and covering its mouth with hide.

The main center of making the Mizhavu is near Irinjalakkuda in the Thrissur or Trichur district of Kerala and only a few expert artisans are involved in its making.