The Mizhavu melam - percussion ensemble

A mizhavu is a big copper drum played as an accompanying percussion instrument in Kutiyattam and Koothu, performing arts of Kerala. This drum is considered a sacred instrument and is played only with the hands. It is the honor of the Nambiar community to play this instrument in the temple or Koothambalam (theatre for staging Koothu).

The video on Mizhavu Melam shows Margi Ramanunni playing the Mizhavu accompanied by Margi Mohanan on the Thimila, Margi Subramanian Potti on the Edakka and Margi Sathi on Ilathalam.