Traditional Ghatam Making - Madurai, Tamil Nadu
The tools and raw materials used for making the percussion instrument ghatam are as follows:
• Clay: Clay is the main substance that is used for making the instrument.
• Water: Water is used while shaping the earthen pot and for kneading the clay into required consistency.
• Sand: Sand is mixed with clay in an appropriate quantity.
• Lead and Graphite: They are mixed with clay to enhance the sound of the instrument.
• Potter’s Wheel: Potter’s wheel is used for shaping the instrument.
• Thread: Thread is used to take off the shaped clay article/pot from the potter’s wheel.
• Wooden Spatula: Wooden spatula is used for beating the pot.
• Round smooth Stone: Stone is used from inside the pot to level the surface of pot.
• Kiln: The pot is baked in the kiln.
• Red or Yellow Polish: Polish is applied on earthen pot to enhance the beauty of the instrument.
