Patayani Thappu is the major percussion instrument used in the performance of Patayani, a ritual dance observed in temples. Thappumelam is an essential part of this unique dance presentation. Thappu is a small drum made by covering the round frame of jack tree core with buffalo hide. It comes under the category of Asuravadyas. Different rhythmic ensembles like Marma, Cheriya Lakshmi and Valiya Lakshmi can be produced by blending thappu with Chenda.