Durukuli is a Sinhalese word that refers to a traditional form of dance in Sri Lanka. The word is pronounced as [ˌduɾuˈkuli], with the first syllable pronounced as "doo-roo" and the second syllable pronounced as "ku-lee." The IPA phonetic transcription shows that the first syllable is stressed and that the vowel sound in the first syllable is a mid-back rounded vowel [u]. The spelling of Durukuli has been standardized in the Sinhalese script as දුරුකුළි.
Durukuli is a noun that refers to a traditional wooden musical instrument originating from the state of Karnataka in India. This instrument primarily belongs to the Yakshagana tradition, which is a traditional theatre form of Karnataka. Durukuli is a percussion instrument that consists of a pair of small wooden sticks or clappers.
The word "durukuli" is derived from the Kannada language, specifically from the words "duru" meaning wood and "kuli" meaning sticks. The instrument is primarily made of a single piece of wood, which is carved and shaped into a hollow structure. This structure contains two smaller pieces of wood that are used to produce sound when clapped together.
During Yakshagana performances, the durukuli is utilized by musicians to provide rhythmic support and enhance the overall musical experience. By striking the two sticks together, the player creates a distinct clapping sound that synchronizes with the performer's movements and the rhythm of the music. The durukuli contributes to the overall sound and cadence of the musical ensemble, adding a percussive layer to the performance.
Over time, the durukuli has become synonymous with Yakshagana and is considered an integral part of its musical heritage. The craftsmanship involved in creating a durukuli is highly valued, as skilled artisans meticulously carve and shape the wooden structure to ensure precise sound production.