Khatam

Khatam is an essential accompaniment in any Carnatic recital. It is a fairly large earthenware pot. Sitting cross-legged, the player holds the instrument in his lap with its mouth slightly tilted towards him. Music is made by striking the pot with the both hands using the palm and the knuckles. Sound depends on the thickness of the walls of the Khatam. More variations are effected by manipulating the air column at the mouth of the pot with the body of the player.