Tabla is a pair of drums from the Indian subcontinent. The name Tabla likely comes from tabl, the Arabic word for drum.
Tabla consists of two small drums, slightly different in size and in shape. Each drum is made of hollowed out wood, clay, or metal. The smaller drum (Dayan) is used for generating treble and tonal sounds, while the larger drum (Baya) is used for generating bass sounds.
The technique of playing Tabla is difficult and involves substantial use of the fingers and palms in various formations to create a great mixture of different sounds and rhythms.