Indian percussion refers to a variety of traditional musical instruments used in Indian music, characterized by their rhythmic complexity and cultural significance. Common instruments include the tabla, a pair of hand-played drums, and the mridangam, a barrel-shaped drum used in South Indian classical music. These instruments are often played in ensembles, accompanying vocalists and other instruments. Rhythmic patterns, known as tala, are fundamental to Indian percussion, providing a framework for improvisation and composition. Each tala has a specific number of beats and subdivisions, allowing musicians to create intricate rhythms. Indian percussion plays a vital role in various genres, including classical, folk, and popular music.