---
title: "Tabla: Indian Percussion Instrument Explained"
description: "The tabla is a paired North Indian hand-drum used in Hindustani music; learn its construction, gharanas, and why it appears in UPSC GS-I culture questions."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/tabla"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- The tabla is a North Indian percussion instrument comprising two single-headed hand drums tuned and played as a pair to provide melodic-rhythmic accompaniment in Hindustani music.
- What is the difference between the tabla and the mridangam?
- What are the six principal tabla gharanas?
- What are the two drums of the tabla called?
- Why does the tabla appear in UPSC General Studies preparation?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

The tabla is a North Indian percussion instrument comprising two single-headed hand drums tuned and played as a pair to provide melodic-rhythmic accompaniment in Hindustani music.

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In 2023, the Government of India conferred the Padma Vibhushan on tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain, recognising his role in carrying Hindustani percussion to global concert stages including Carnegie Hall.

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