Dhimay, also called Dhimaya (Newar: धिमय्) or Dhime, is a traditional drum used by the Newar people of Nepal. According to the Hornbostel–Sachs classification system, it is a type of drum that has two drumheads on a cylinder shape.

Description

The drum is larger than other drums played by the Newars in Nepal. Its size ranges from 40 inches to 51 inches in diameter and 17 inches to 21 inches in length. The drum's shell is made of wood or metal. Sometimes, wooden drums have metal foil covering parts of them. Old Dhimay drums often have irregular shapes, created by the natural form of the wood used for the drum body. Modern drums are usually cylindrical or slightly barrel-shaped. Both drum heads are made of goat skin. Inside the left membrane, called Mankhah (Haima in Bhaktapur), a red tuning paste (similar to Syahi) is applied to create a deep sound.

There are two types of dhimay. Smaller ones are called "Dhaacha Dhimay," and larger ones are called "Ma Dhimay."

Playing technique

The left side, called Mankhah, is played by hand directly. When the hand strikes the upper part of the membrane (ghe), it creates a long, echoing sound. When the hand moves downward (kha), it makes a sharp, clear sound. The right membrane, called Nasah, is played using a thin stick made of cane. One end of the stick is usually curved. In addition to these three basic strokes, a fourth type of stroke (dha) is used. This stroke combines the low, echoing sound made by the left hand on the upper part of the membrane with the movement of the right hand.

History

According to local stories, the instrument is said to have been created by Mahadev. The drum has been used since the time of the Kirata kingdom. It is mostly played by the Jyapu community, who are Newars known for farming. However, people from other castes also play the drum as Nepal becomes a more united country where members of all castes can play traditional instruments.

Performance

In traditional settings, the Dhimay is played with other instruments, mostly idiophones, which are instruments that make sound when struck or shaken. In groups called Dhimaybaja, the drum is often accompanied by cymbals such as Bhuchhyay and Sichhyay. Sometimes, a gong-like instrument called Tai-nai is also used. At special events, musicians from the Kapali or Jugi groups, who are tailors and professional musicians, may join the ensemble. The Dhimay is also part of Buddhist Navabaja (or Naubaja) ensembles. Recently, some musicians have started using the Dhimay as a bass drum to accompany Western instruments like the guitar, blending traditional and modern music styles.

Occasions

The Dhimay is played during important religious festivals and rituals, such as Jatra and Puja:

• Deshwodhar Puja Devpatan – Chaitra Krishna Dwadashi
• Janabahaadya chariot festival
• Bunga Dyah Jatra chariot festival
• Indra Jatra
• New Year of the Nepal Sambat calendar (Bhintuna)
• Bisket Jatra
• Pujas for deities like Krishna and Ganesha
• Paha Chare
• Gun Punhi (Gai Jatra)
• Gunla (a month in the Nepal Sambat calendar: it occurs just before Yela)
• Yela (a month in the Nepal Sambat calendar: it starts from Aunshi to Ghatsthapana)

It is also played during family celebrations and life-cycle rituals:

• Janko
• Kaeta Puja
• Ihi Paa

Dhimay is played during events such as inaugurations, rallies, receptions, cultural shows, and competitions.