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VILLU
Type: GHAN VADYA
Villu is a solid instrument made of wood, gut, cotton, and bamboo. This folk instrument is found in Andhra Pradesh and Kerala. Majorly used in folk and traditional music and is associated with the ‘Onam’ festival.
VILLU in Andhra Pradesh
Material: Wood, gut
A composite instrument of two parts; A huge bow made of wood with gut string attached to both ends and a pitcher made of baked clay. The bow is covered with a red cloth. Six small ‘jingle bells’ are tied with the cloth. The pitcher is covered with a white cloth and rests on a ring. While playing, the bow is kept on the open mouth of the pitcher, which acts as a resonator and struck by two heavy sticks made of wood. Occasionally struck by two light sticks fitted with two little metal discs for jingling sound. An instrument used in narrative forms. A similar instrument is used in Tamil Nadu, also called Villu. Also many other regional versions are available of this instrument with minor differences.
VILLU in Kerala
Material: Coconut, bamboo
A bow shaped instrument made from the blade of coconut palm. A thin bamboo stick, acts as the vibrating string, held between the slits in the two ends. While playing, held in left hand and struck it with a stick. Associated with the ‘Onam’ festival. Used in folk and traditional music.
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