[1] It is used as a traditional classical instrument in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka and Kerala[2] and in the northern and eastern parts of Sri Lanka.

[3] It is a wind instrument partially similar to the North Indian shehnai, but much longer, with a hardwood body, and a large flaring bell made of wood or metal.

[clarification needed] It is a double reed instrument with a conical bore which gradually enlarges toward the lower end.

[9] Traditionally the body of the nadasvaram is made out of a tree called aacha (Tamil ஆச்சா; Hindi अंजन), although nowadays bamboo, sandalwood, copper, brass, ebony, and ivory are also used.

Due to its intense volume and strength, it is largely an outdoor instrument, and much more suited for open spaces than for indoor concerts.

Madurai Sethuraman and Ponnusamy brothers were employed for the nadasvaram playing duo characters Sivaji Ganesan and A.V.M.