News: Jharkhand’s traditional folk percussion instrument Mandar has received the GI tag from the Geographical Indications Registry.

About

• Traditional double-headed barrel-shaped drum, mainly made of red clay and leather.
• Associated with Jharkhand, especially the Chotanagpur Plateau.
• Traditional craft centre: Jarjatta village, Gumla district.
• Used in Sarhul, Karma, marriages and tribal folk dances.

Key Features

• Hollow red-clay cylindrical body with a central bulge.
• Two unequal drumheads produce high and deep bass tones.
• Leather cords are used for tensioning.
• Kiran tuning paste is applied to the smaller drumhead.
• Played by slung over the shoulder during dances and processions

Significance

• Protects Jharkhand’s traditional musical heritage and artisan craftsmanship.
• Supports recognition and livelihood opportunities for traditional makers.