Themes
tribal music and musical instruments
Big drum/ Bada Dhol, gujarat
This large drum of the Rathwa tribe stands for pride and unity in their cultural heritage, especially in relation to their celebrations of Holi dances. It helps in bonding with their spiritual thought, wherein it is considered a sacred musical weapon to venerate their ancestral traditions and seek blessings during times of festivities. Brightly blessed going rhythmic beats would be a source of harmony throughout the community sharing existence between the spiritual realm and the earthly world.
Locally available timber has been used in making of Big drum/ Bada Dhols, sourced from nearby forests of teak, mahuda, mango, and bea woods. Goat skin is used for drum faces, traditionally processed by tanners from the area for durable sound and skin. The drum is struck with teak sticks, while its accompaniments made of brass or bronze thali and bamboo-made sharnais show Rathwa's innovation in using natural resources.
The Rathwa tribe celebrates the Big drum/ Bada Dhol mostly in Holi, an important festival that is celebrated with a great deal of energy. On this occasion, the community congregates to perform dances and ritual songs, whilst the Big drum/ Bada Dhol encourages the jubilant happenings. This event marks the beginning of spring and manifests joy, unity, and the awakening of life in the community.
Culturally, the Big drum/ Bada Dhol is revered in Rathwa culture more than merely a musical instrument; it is a sacred cultural artifact. This institute and deities are thought to give protection against negative energies and endow blessings. Thereby, it is esteemed, consecrated on auspicious days, and stored in safe places so as to honor the spirit it holds for the community.