Dhad is a folk percussion instrument of
Punjab. It is an hourglass shaped drum. The body is made from the woods of mango tree, mulberry or ‘sheesham.’ The head is covered with goatskin, which is held tightly by cords.
Dhad is played in an interesting manner. The artist controls the tautness of the drum’s skin with one hand, while with the other hand he beats on it. The tightness of the cord decides the tone of the instrument.
A Dhad, adorned with tassels and small bells, is an important folk instrument in Punjab. It is often used in combination with the Sarangi in many musical programs. It is the instrument used by the ‘dhadis,’ who are the traditional singers of heroic deeds and romantic tales, and who derive their name from it.
