Douroo is a traditional percussion instrument of
Punjab. It is an hourglass shaped drum producing a sharp resonating sound. Its two heads are covered with the hides, which are held taut by cords. A cloth is wrapped over the cords, in the middle of the drum, to adjust their tightness. This cloth is occasionally decorated with embroidery. The rims of the drum are adorned with tassels.
A Douroo is played with sticks. These sticks are carefully shaped and smoothened for producing the right notes. Apart from the sticks, fingers are also used but their use is restricted in modulating the notes.
Douroo is mostly used by the shamans, exorcists and especially the singers who praise Guga, Lord of Snakes. The Guga singers roam from place to place, accompanied by the drummers, singing devotional songs.
