Thayambaka

Sreejesh Marar Polur, Calicut  is performing Thayambaka. Thayambaka is of course a kind of symphony comprising one Idanthala, two valanthala, two Sruthichenda, and two or four thalam. The group starts with Sandhyavela or something similar to it.  Towards the climax of this the Thaymbaka drummer enters and begins the "ennams" and goes to the manodharmas.  The end is characterized by the Ganapathikkai. Normally it takes three hours and odds.  It can take more time or less as per the occasion.  Double Thayampaka, Treble thayambaka are duets and with three main drummers respectively. When it’s duet two idanthalas are used and in treble three idanthalas are used.  Valanthala are the timer beats and “thalam” and “thaalavattom” is denoted by the striking of the Valanthalakkaran.  Sruthi Chenda is an accompaniment to the Thaymbakakkaran and is with matching pitch to the Idanthala (Thayambakakkaran’s Chenda).