Peruvembu is a unique village near Chittur-Thathamangalam in the Palakkad district of Kerala, known for its longstanding tradition of crafting leather-based percussion instruments such as Mridangam, Maddalam, Tabla, Timila, Chenda, and Idakka. For over 200 years, this village has been a vital part of Kerala’s cultural landscape, with the Kadachi Kollan community preserving this ancient craft as their primary means of livelihood.
The instruments produced in Peruvembu are made from leather and the wood of the jackfruit tree, and they are widely used in temple percussions. The creation of these instruments is a meticulous process that can take 2 to 3 months to complete. It begins with selecting the appropriate wood, which is dried for a month before being hollowed out using chisels. The cowhide, often combined with buffalo or goat hide, is sourced from abattoirs, cleaned, stretched, and dried in the sun before being fitted onto the instrument. This craft demands a high level of precision and years of experience to master.
Despite the social and financial challenges faced by the community, Peruvembu continues to be a significant producer of these traditional musical instruments. The rhythmic beats of these percussion instruments can be heard throughout the village, as they are tested, tuned, or played. Musicians from various parts of India visit Peruvembu to purchase these personalized instruments, which are renowned for their quality and craftsmanship.
Currently, about 74 families in Peruvembu continue this tradition, contributing significantly to Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. The village, located around 15 km from Palakkad town, is home to several leather-based musical instrument manufacturing units. The Kadayan community, which primarily engages in this craft, has kept this unbroken tradition alive, making Peruvembu a vital part of Kerala’s cultural and musical history.
Peruvembu’s dedication to this craft is truly remarkable, with the village being a source of pride for the state of Kerala. The sound of music here not only reflects the artisans' skill but also the enduring spirit of a community committed to preserving its heritage through the art of instrument making.
