Bhil Artisan Making Bamboo Ring for Dhak Musical Instrument

15-May-2026

This image from Napla village in Banswara district of Rajasthan shows a Bhil tribe artisan working on an important stage of Dhak musical instrument making, where a bamboo ring is being prepared. The artisan is holding a flexible bamboo strip, carefully bending it into a circular shape. Bamboo is widely used in traditional craftsmanship due to its strength and flexibility.

The strip is shaped into a ring and secured using a strong thread to maintain its structure. This component is essential in the making of the Dhak musical instrument, as the ring forms the base on which animal skin is stretched on both sides.

This stage requires high precision, as the ring must perfectly match the opening of the instrument. Bhil artisans achieve this accuracy through experience and manual skill without modern measuring tools, reflecting their deep-rooted craftsmanship and traditional knowledge.