Nanthuni is a stringed instrument played during Kerala rituals. The base of this simple device is a three feet long rectangular box with five holes drilled on its top. A string is stretched to a rod, fixed at an acute angle, on the box. Strumming the Nanthuni, with pressure applied on the string at the points over the holes, produces variations in sound.
Kalamezhuthu pattu is an important ritual that uses Nanthuni for accompaniment. The soothing sound of this instrument helps to keep rhythm and offsets the vibrant colors of the kalam (a ritual figure) with its bare note.
