Mridangam

The Mridangam (Tamil::மிருதங்கம் Sanskrit:मृदङ्गं Telugu:మృదఙ్గం, Kannada::ಮೃದಂಗ) is a percussion instrument from India of ancient origin. It is the primary rhythmic accompaniment in a Carnatic music ensemble.

The mridangam is also played in Carnatic concerts in countries outside of India, including Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States. During a percussion ensemble, the mridangam is often accompanied by the ghatam, kanjira, and morsing. The mridangam is nicknamed as the "King of Percussion".