Science Involved in Tabla Drums

The most unique aspect in Tabla sound science is the GAB or ink (syahi) application. If we don’t use this GAB on leather surface, it will help to create over-tones that lessen the quality of the Tabla instrument sound. This ink is made as a mixture of iron particles, gum, dough (of rice flour) and catechu etc. When the player beats a piece of lengthened leather, the sound waves spread and team up again. Thus, there are always complications in sound strength, which also makes the sound loud. But, by beating on the ink, the sound gets melody. Thus the science of ink use in Tabla music means its unique sound and beginning of various sounds and modulations.