Hurka (PART 1)

An iconic small hand drum played by the Hurkiya community in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. The name Hurkiya (one who plays the Hurka) lends itself to the drum they play. Inspired by Lord Shiva's damru, the hurka is said to have been in existence since the early 11th century. The height of the hurka varies between 12 to 16 inches, while the circumference of the actual playing surface, called the poodi, varies between 4-6 inches- more the surface area, deeper the sound of the instrument.

Contributed By :

Himanshu Joshi