KBC 14: Which of the following is a large, narrow-mouthed earthenware pot used as a percussion instrument?
Options:
A) Daf
B) Ghatam
C) Rubab
D) Shofar
Answer: Ghatam
Ghatam is a percussion instrument used in various repertoires across India. It is a clay pot with a narrow mouth. From the mouth, it slants outwards to form a ridge. The instrument is made mainly of clay backed with brass or copper fillings with a small amount of iron fillings. The pitch of the ghatam varies according to its size. Although it is of the same shape as any Indian domestic clay pot, it is made specifically to be played as an instrument.
It is a variant played in Punjab and known as gharha. Its analogue in Rajasthan is known as the madga or paani mataqa. Ghatams are mostly manufactured in Manamadurai, a place near Madurai in Tamil Nadu. The Manamadurai ghatam is a heavy, thick pot with tiny shards of brass mixed into the clay.
The pot is usually placed on the lap of the performer, with the mouth facing the stomach. The performer uses the fingers, thumbs, palms and heels of the hands to strike its outer surface to produce different sounds. Sometimes the instrument is turned around so that its mouth faces the audience and the performer plays on the neck of the instrument. Occasionally the instrument is tossed up in the air and then caught by the performer. The ghatam is ideal for playing rhythmic patterns in a very fast tempo.
Other questions in the KBC quiz:
KBC 14: The ‘Ring of Fire’ is found along the margins of which of the following oceans?
KBC 14: Who was appointed as the next High Commissioner of Bangladesh to India in July 2022?
