However, clear pictorial evidence of the drum emerges only from about 1745, and the drum continued to develop in shape until the early 1800s. One example of the latter theory is carvings in Bhaja Caves. There are two groups of theories, one that traces its origins to Muslim and Mughal conquerors of the Indian subcontinent, the other traces it to indigenous origins. The history of tabla is unclear, and there are multiple theories regarding its origins. The playing technique is complex and involves extensive use of the fingers and palms in various configurations to create a wide variety of different sounds and rhythms, reflected in mnemonic syllables ( bol). The dowels and hoops are used to tighten the tension of the membranes for tuning the drums. They are laced with hoops, thongs and wooden dowels on its sides. The smaller drum ( dayan) is used for creating treble and tonal sounds, while the primary function of the larger drum ( baya) is for producing bass. Each drum is made of hollowed out wood, clay or metal. The tabla consists of two small drums of slightly different sizes and shapes. The ultimate origin of the musical instrument is contested by scholars, though some trace its evolution from indigenous musical instruments of the Indian subcontinent. The name tabla likely comes from tabl, the Arabic word for drum. Tabla also features in dance performances such as Kathak.
It is one of the main qawali instrument used by Sufi musicians. The tabla is also an important instrument in the bhakti devotional traditions of Hinduism and Sikhism, such as during bhajan and kirtan singing.
Tabla is also frequently played in popular and folk music performances in India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka.
Since the 18th century, tabla has been the principal percussion instrument in Hindustani classical music, where it may be played solo, as accompaniment with other instruments and vocals, and as a part of larger ensembles. A tabla is a pair of twin hand drums from the Indian subcontinent.