Before playing the Dhol, a Merasi will touch both of his ears with his right hand, acknowledging his guru and Saraswati, the Hindu Goddess of music.

When their double-headed drum is colored with the sacred Hindu swastika, it is a Merasi Dhol. 

The number of cords, pegs, and rivets is prescribed according to odd numbers that bring good luck, while the two sides are said to represent male and female, soft and hard, sound and energy.