Mardala is a classical percussive instrument native to the east Indian state of Odisha, traditionally used as the primary accompaniment in Odissi classical music. The instrument is slightly different from other instruments that might have similar names in the Indian subcontinent due to its unique construction, acoustic features and traditional playing technique.
Image: Odissi Mardala 5
Image: Odissi Mardala 6
Image: Odissi Mardala 1
A lady playing Mardala in a frieze at the Sun Temple of Konark
Odissi music is a genre of classical music in India, originated from the eastern state of Odisha. The traditional ritual music for the service of Lord Jagannatha, Odissi music has a history spanning over two thousand years, authentic sangita-shastras or treatises, unique Ragas & Talas and a distinctive style of rendition.
Bars discovered from Sankarjang, Angul, Odisha
Rani Gumpha at Udayagiri caves, designed as an auditorium with a stage in the center for performances
Image of Buddha inside a room of the Lalitagiri monastery, Jajpur
Palm leaf manuscript (pothi) of Gita Govinda written by iconic medieval Odissi poet Gopalakrusna Pattanayaka of Paralakhemundi