The word Melam denotes a musical ensemble of many instruments, mainly the percussion ones. Thakil Melam, likewise, makes use of Thakil or Thavil, a barrel shaped percussion instrument used mostly in South Indian Music as an accompaniment to Nadaswaram. The Thakil is a two-sided instrument made up of jackfruit wood and leather. It is played on one side with a stick and on the other side with capped fingers. Thakil is considered to be an auspicious percussion instrument. Along with Nadaswaram, Thakil presents a unique musical experience. It can be performed along with Ilathalam, too.