Facts about Tabla

When the tabla's membrane is felt, either before or after a performance, its vibrations speak of the celestial realms that music is derived from.

Another common historical narrative portrays the tabla as being thousands of years old, yet this is mere conjecture, based on sometimes careless interpretations of iconography.

The term tanning is also used metaphorically for physical punishment, such as a severe spanking, which leaves clear marks (reddening, stripes, or even scars) on the beaten skin.

When the tabla's membrane is struck, its sound exemplifies the earthly realms in which music is a part of.

Bol's are mnemonic syllables for remembering various parts of a composition and they consist of the variations of drum strokes for the tabla.

Other tabla performers have identified further derivations of the above traditions, but these are subjective claims, largely motivated by self-promotion.