indian drum crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "indian drum crossword" clue, you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions categorized by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "indian drum crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
DHOL: A large, barrel-shaped double-headed drum played with sticks, common in folk and ceremonial music across India, especially in Punjab and Bengal.
5 Letters
TABLA: A pair of small, tunable hand drums, one for treble (dayan) and one for bass (bayan), fundamental to Hindustani classical music and widely used in other genres.
8 Letters
MRIDANGA: A double-headed, barrel-shaped drum, primarily used in Carnatic classical music of South India, known for its rich, resonant sound.
PAKHAVAJ: A barrel-shaped, double-headed drum with a similar appearance to the mridanga, prominent in North Indian classical music, especially for accompanying Dhrupad vocals and instrumentalists.
More About "indian drum crossword"
Indian percussion instruments are incredibly diverse, reflecting the vast cultural tapestry of the subcontinent. When a crossword clue points to an "Indian drum," it often refers to instruments that have gained international recognition due to their prominence in classical music, spiritual practices, or folk traditions. The most famous among these is arguably the Tabla, a pair of drums known for their complex rhythmic patterns and expressive tonal range, central to Hindustani classical performances.
Beyond the Tabla, other significant drums include the Dhol, a powerful folk drum used in celebratory events and dances like Bhangra; the Mridanga, a cornerstone of South Indian Carnatic music; and the Pakhawaj, often seen as an older cousin to the Tabla, supporting ancient vocal styles. Each instrument has its unique construction, playing technique, and cultural context, contributing to India's rich musical heritage.
Understanding the distinctions between these drums can not only help with crossword puzzles but also deepen one's appreciation for Indian music. Crossword setters often pick these instruments because of their distinct names and the cultural resonance they carry, making them perfect candidates for clues that test general knowledge.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of letters required. This immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly, for example, distinguishing between a 5-letter TABLA and an 8-letter MRIDANGA.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: While TABLA is a common answer for "Indian drum," be aware that clues can sometimes refer to less common but equally valid instruments like DHOL or PAKHAVAJ, especially in more challenging puzzles.
- Context is King: If other words in the clue hint at a specific region (e.g., "South Indian drum") or musical style (e.g., "Carnatic percussion"), use that context to refine your answer. Sometimes, the clue might be a clever pun or wordplay.
- Use Crossing Letters: Leverage letters from intersecting clues. Even if you're unsure, a few confirmed letters can often reveal the correct Indian drum name, especially for longer answers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common Indian drum in crosswords?
The most frequently appearing Indian drum in crosswords is the TABLA, a pair of small hand drums popular in Hindustani classical music for their intricate rhythmic possibilities.
Are all Indian drums called 'tabla'?
No, 'tabla' refers specifically to a pair of hand drums. India has a vast array of percussion instruments, including the larger DHOL, the classical MRIDANGA and PAKHAVAJ, and numerous regional folk drums, each with unique sounds and cultural significance.
How can I identify an Indian drum answer if I don't know the exact name?
Look at the letter count provided by the crossword. Common lengths include 4 letters (like DHOL), 5 letters (like TABLA), and 8 letters (like MRIDANGA or PAKHAVAJ). Consider the context of the clue, any accompanying words, and the letters you already have from intersecting clues to narrow down possibilities.