Chenda is a cylindrical percussion instrument widely popular in the state of Kerala and also in some parts of Karnataka state of India, where it is called Chende. Chenda is mainly used as an accompaniment in Hindu religious art forms like Kathakali, Koodiyattam and rituals. Chende is also used in a folk dance drama called Yakshagana popular in Karnataka.

A chenda is made out of a cylindrical wooden drum, and has a length of 2 feet and a diameter of 1 foot. Both side of Chenda is covered with skin (usually cow skin). Chenda is hang down in drummers neck so that it hangs vertically facing the upper parchment of the covered skin. using two stiks the drummer strikes the upper parchment.