The ghatam is ideal for playing rhythmic patterns in very fast tempo.

What is a ghatam used for?

Ghatam, large, narrow-mouthed earthenware water pot used as a percussion instrument in India. Unlike other Indian percussion instruments, such as the tabla and mridangam, the ghatam does not have a membrane over its mouth.

What does the ghatam do in a Carnatic ensemble?

It is played with the hands and fingers and can produce a large variety of sounds right from the neck to the body of the ghatam. The mouth of the ghatam usually faces the player. The ghatam is used in conjunction with the mridangam in Carnatic music.