In Mridangam, "Vaaru" signifies the black circular area positioned at the core of the right-hand membrane (valanthalai).
Significance and Function of Vaaru:
This patch is prepared using a composite of rice paste, iron filings, and additional elements.
It facilitates the generation of diverse tonal variations and overtones.
It imparts definition and precise pitch to percussive sounds like "tha," "nam," and "dhin."
It amplifies the instrument's resonance and sonic depth.
It is indispensable for accurately tuning the mridangam to a designated pitch.
Consequences of Omitting Vaaru:
The distinctness of tonal quality would degrade.
The mridangam would fail to maintain the necessary pitch.