Auto phonic Instruments

The hells are the first of the auto phonic instruments. The Ghanti or the Ghanta are commonly used and the ghungroo (ankle bells) form an integral part of the music. The Bhopas of Bherunji wear large ghungroos around their waists and sway their bodies to provide a rhythm. The war dance of the Godwad area, the Ramjhol, is performed to the rhythm of the large ankle bells. Then there are the manjeeras which are made of brass in the shape of hemispherical metal cups struck against each other. The Jhanit and the Talla are different kinds of manjeeras.

Another variety of musical instruments is formed by a single metal plate, the thali. This is struck in various ways producing different kinds of tones and rhythms. The Jhalar also called the Ghanta and Thali or Tasli are commonly used.

In Jaisalmer district an interesting variant of the Jaltagang is used. It is called the Jaltaal and is a thali with water filled in it. The Jhalar is usually played with bells, blowing of conchshells and beating of drums at aarti and on other religious occasions.

The Jhol and the Bankia are used at auspicious social occasions as an accompaniment to the host of dances performed at such times. The shree Mandal uses scores of Jhalar like discs. Unfortunately it is rarely heard now.

Rhythmic music is also provided by the Khartals, which are disc jinglers, struck against each other. Jinglers are also used on the Chhinpia and the lejim. The Raigidgidi or Khartal used by the Langas and Manganiyars is made of simple wooden castanets, and two struck against each other form the basic rhythm. The Kathodis of Udaipur use scrappers.