What is morakas?

Morakas are musical instruments that consist of two small handheld shakers made of gourds or other materials filled with seeds or beads. They are commonly used in various Latin American and Caribbean musical styles such as salsa, merengue, and rumba. Morakas are played by shaking them rhythmically to produce a percussive sound. They are often used to add a subtle accent to the rhythm of a song or to provide a steady beat for dancers to follow. Morakas are also often used in traditional spiritual and cultural practices in South and Central American communities.