The thillana is a vocal genre in South Indian dance and music performances that prominently features drumming syllables as part of the text. The Dhanasri Thillana, named after the raga Dhanasri (similar to the Dorian mode) was composed by Swathi Thirunal, who was not only a prolific composer, but also the ruler of Travanacore (now Kerala) from 1815 to 1829. The Dhanasri Thillana is one of Swathi Thirunal’s most enduring works — performed frequently on both music and dance concerts throughout India.