Karatalas
Appearance
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/61/Karatalas.jpg/250px-Karatalas.jpg)
Karatalas (Fr. Caratalas), are a percussion instrument played by striking them together, often used within the traditions of Hinduism to accompany kirtana or sankirtan (the glorification of a deity or God through speech or song). They are commonly used by Hare Krishna devotees when performing in public.
Although often confused with Zils or Finger Cymbals, Karatalas bear more similarities to crotal or bells, being of a heavier construction and producing a more purer tone.