Rhythm and percussion play a major role in several folk art forms, often becoming the defining characteristic. One of the folk ceremonial art forms of Kerala is named after the instrument predominantly used in the performance. Though it involves music and movements, the percussion instrument stands as its identity. This art form is Duffmuttu, a group performance popular among the Muslims of Malabar (North Kerala). Duffmuttu is performed as a social event during festivals, Uroos (festivals connected to mosque) and wedding ceremonies. This group performance is named after the primary instrument used- the ‘Duffu,’ also known as ‘Thappitta’. A Duff is a shallow, round percussion instrument, made of a wooden frame with a stretched animal skin, typically from goats or oxen, which produces a distinctive sound when beaten. Duffmuttu is said to have originated in Madina, South Arabia, where it was performed in open fields to sing and praises the God, accompanied by Arabic songs. Over time, it became a prominent part of the ceremonies of the Muslims of the Malabar region, by incorporating Islamic songs, making the art form more localised and popular. The songs performed during Duffmuttu often pay tribute to martyrs, heroes, and saints.

Performance
Duffmuttu performance involves a group of six or more performers. One member of the group leads by singing the main verses, while the others form a chorus, beating their Duffu in rhythm. The performance is presented either in a ‘U’ shaped arrangement or the artistes spread in two rows facing each other. The performers hold the Duffu in one hand, and dance synchronously with remarkable flexibility. The choreography of Duffmuttu is dynamic, with performers making swift switches of the Duffu between their hands. Their seamlessly swaying bodies, creating an impression of complete harmony between the dancers' movements and the rhythm of the song and the Duff beats. In some versions, performers sit and sing while beating the Duffu. Duffmuttu performers wear white mundu (the long cloth wear around the waist) worn towards left and a long white shirt. The head is covered with traditional Muslim hats or with a white cloth. 

Arabana muttu is another form of art similar to Duffmuttu in arrangements, songs and movements but different with the instrument used. In Arabana muttu the instrument is slightly thinner and larger in size than the Duff, and the movements are more elaborated and complicated. Arabanamuttu is often performed to welcome dignitaries as part of major occasions. Duffmuttu is popular in the Kasargod and Malappuram districts of the Malabar region. Many mosques have their own Duffmuttu troupes, and stage competitions are held across Kerala, especially during school art festivals, which have significantly boosted the popularity of this traditional art form.