Question

Which of the following is a percussion instrument?

• A. Ravanhattha
• B. Dimdimi
• C. Shudra Ghantika
• D. Kanoon

Hint:

"Avanaddha" refers to instruments covered with leather skins. The Dimdimi belongs to the historical family of small traditional drums, distinguishing it from stringed instruments and metallic bells.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: In Indian classical music terminology, a percussion instrument featuring a stretched leather membrane is called an Avanaddha Vadya (Membranophone). These instruments are primarily struck with hands or sticks to generate rhythmic pulses.

Step 1: Evaluate the characteristics of the options.
Let us examine the structural mechanism of each option:
• Ravanhattha: An ancient folk instrument played with a bow and strings \(\rightarrow\) *Tata Vadya*
• Dimdimi: An ancient small drum categorized historically under leather-bound instruments \(\rightarrow\) *Avanaddha Vadya*
• Shudra Ghantika: Small metallic ankle bells or ghungroos \(\rightarrow\) *Ghana Vadya*
• Kanoon: A flat instrument featured with multiple taut wire strings \(\rightarrow\) *Tata Vadya*

Step 2: Isolate the membranous percussion drum.
The Dimdimi is an ancient drum mentioned in historic scriptures as a rhythmic instrument. It features a stretched leather membrane, placing it in the percussion category (*Avanaddha Vadya*).