The rhythmic aspects of the songs that are performed as part of the Annanmar Katai, offer great entry points into the world of Udukkai Playing and the myriad possibilities. The lead bard narrates while keeping time with the finger cymbals, and the assistant bard repeats end phrases or song lines after the lead bard while playing the Udukkai. The songs are accentuated by complex rhythmic patterns played on the Udukkai in addition to introducing dramatic episodes or cinematic pauses as part of the performance. When played together during the performance, the Udukkai and the Jalra create a syncopated effect.