Mizhavu

A mizhav or mizhavu (Malayalam: മിഴാവ്) is a big copper drum played as an accompanying percussion instrument in the Koodiyattam and Koothu, performing arts of Kerala.

Mizhavu is treated as a "Brahmachaarya" and it is considered as sacred.

It is used to accompany the holy ritualistic temple performance of Koodiyattam and Koothu.

Only Ambalavasi Nambiar community members are allowed to play it inside temples or Koothambalams still.

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Mizhavu kept in Mizhavana (wooden box made especially to keep the mizhavu).
Kalamandalam Achuthanandan playing Mizhavu for Chakyar Koothu
Mizhav used by Kunchan Nambiar , which is kept in Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Swamy Temple