The simplest form of frame drum, Surya Pirai (literally means the shape of the sun) is a percussion instrument found in
Andhra Pradesh and
Tamil Nadu. Also called Surya Mandalam, it is a complete circular drum of 25 cm diameter. The iron ring of Surya Pirai has a thin parchment at the edge. It is fixed to a handle with an extended arm. The instrument is tied on the forehead and played with a stick. It is usually played in Mariamman temples.
