Types of chenda
Chendas are of different types, depending upon the diameter of  the chenda . They are called "Ettara Veechan Chenda" (8.5inch) "Ompathu Veechan Chenda" (9inch), "Ompathe Kal Veechan Chenda" (9 1/4inch), "Ompathara Veechan Chenda”(9.5inch), "Ompathe Mukkal Veechan Chenda"  (9 3/4inch), "Ompathe Mukkal Kali Chenda" (> 9 3/4inch  but < 10inch). These Chendas are used for different purposes especially for different art forms.
Depending upon the size, structure and function of the Chenda, they are classified as, "" which is made of soft, single cow skin. The meaning of "uruttuin Malayalam language is "rolling". The artist produce sound on "Uruttu Chenda" by rolling his right hanVeekku Chenda" or "Acchan Chenda" , "Uruttu Chenda" , "Muri Chenda" etc. "Uruttu Chenda" is used to play variations in music. It is used to lead the orchestra. It is called the ""Pramanavadhya"" . The "Chenda Vattam" of the "Uruttu Chenda" is always the "Edam Thala" or the "Left Headd wreist. During the first beat the palm holding the stick will face the artist , then during the scond beat (using the same right hand) the palm would face the opposite side . This is done by rolling the wrist.

acchan chenda

"Veekku Chendaor "Acchan Chendais used to keep the "thalam"  or the basic rhythm. The "Chenda Vattam" of the "Uruttu Chenda" is always the "Valam Thala" or the "Right Head" which is made of multiple layer of skin to produce a bass

URUTTU CHENDA

sound. The meaning of "Veekku" in Malayalam language is "beating hard". The artist produce sound on "Veekku Chenda" by hitting the drum using a stick without twisting or rolling his wrist.