The dances of Karnataka reflect the state’s rich cultural diversity, encompassing both folk and classical genres that hold popularity in various regions. While many indigenous communities in Karnataka have preserved and nurtured their unique folk dance traditions, the state also boasts a vibrant presence of Indian classical dances. Karnataka’s rural areas serve as repositories of lively folk dances and dance-dramas. One such example is the Dollu Kunitha dance, characterized by its religious essence and connection to the worship of Lord Beereshwara. On the other hand, Yakshagana stands out as a folk theater where performers bring to life epic and mythological stories. Here are a few intriguing folk dances from Karnataka that bring in the vibrancy of regional extravaganza.
1. Dollu Kunitha
Dollu Kunitha is a popular traditional folk dance in Karnataka, known for its high-energy performances during important festivals and celebrations across the state. This traditional dance is closely associated with the worship of Sree Beeralingeshwara, a form of Lord Shiva, and has its origins in the rituals of the Kuruba Gowda community in North Karnataka. The term “Dollu” refers to the drum, symbolically linked to Lord Shiva, who is renowned for his fierce dance, the “bhairava tandava,” performed when he is enraged. Legend has it that Shiva created a drum using the skins of demons he had vanquished. The Kuruba people, devoted followers of Shiva, commemorate the defeat of demons by drumming.
Dollu Kunitha is performed by a group of ten to twelve drummers, and the troupe may consist of both men and women. Due to its high-intensity and loud performance, Dollu Kunitha always captures attention. The drum dance is typically executed in a circular or semi-circular formation, with drummers rhythmically beating their drums while singing and dancing to the music.
Performing Dollu Kunitha demands significant energy and endurance to carry and dance with the heavy drum for extended periods. Initially, only well-built men participated in this dance, but now, smaller and lighter drums are available, making it accessible to a broader range of individuals. Villagers and spectators often join the Dollu Kunitha troupe in the dance, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration.
2. Veeragase
Veeragaase is a well-known folk dance that symbolically represents the courage and valor of God ‘Veerabhadra.’ This dance is typically performed during Hindu festivals in the months of Shravana and Karthika. It is a dynamic and intense dance deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, characterized by vigorous and energetic movements.
The dancers adorn themselves in distinctive attire, including white turban-like headgear, kaavi-colored dhotis, Rudrakshamala necklaces, Nagabharanas ornaments, and a wooden plaque featuring the image of Lord Veerabhadra on their chests. They also apply Vibhooti on their foreheads, ears, and eyebrows. Accompanied by the beat of Karadi and chamel drums, the performers engage in a martial dance, wielding an unsheathed sword in their right hand and holding a wooden plaque depicting Veerabhadra in their left. The dance group typically consists of two, four, or six members. Within the group, a lead vocalist narrates the epic tale of “Daksha yajna,” while one of the dancers carries a large ornamental pole called Nandikolu, crowned with an orange flag. Traditional percussion instruments like sambal and dimmu provide melodious accompaniment to the performance.
Veeragaase is a captivating dance that vividly portrays the courageous spirit of Veerabhadra and holds a significant place in Hindu festival celebrations, particularly during the months of Shravana and Karthika.
3. Bhootha Аradhane Dance
The worship of spirits is represented by Bhootha Aradhane. This event is an excellent blend of common beliefs, spectacular displays, and ritualistic magic aimed at warding off evil spirits.
Karnataka Bhootha Aradhane is highly visual. It involves a parade that requires significant effort in transporting idols. Traditional idols are painted to depict bhootas or demons, symbolizing their presence. A unique and eerie ambiance is created through the procession. Drums and fireworks accompany the procession, with large crowds pulling the idols to a raised platform where the final rituals of the procession take place.
4. Nagamandala Dance
Variations of serpent worship rituals among Hindus are present in all parts of India, including Nagamandala in Karnataka. This lengthy ceremony lasts throughout the night and involves the ritualistic appeasement of the serpent, particularly in the southern regions of Karnataka. The Nagamandala snake in Karnataka is commonly regarded as a symbol of fertility and life-force.
Male dancers, known as Vaidyas, typically perform Nagamandala in Karnataka. They dress up as Nagakannikas, representing female snakes, and dance over an intricate pattern that symbolizes the serpent’s spirit, serving as the focal point of their worship during the dance. The architecture of Nagamandala is itself an impressive feat, featuring a sophisticated natural color pattern. At some point during the ritual, a Brahmin becomes possessed, signifying the presence of the snake among the worshippers. The serpent’s image is based on traditional and symbolic patterns.
5.Yakshagana Dance
“Yakshagana” is a dramatic composition that is performed in front of rural audiences by trained and amateur actors. It combines elements of dance and drama. The phrase “Yakshagana” literally means “heavenly music.” This dance drama often takes place throughout the night, particularly during winter harvest festivals, captivating the audience with its enchanting songs and vibrant performances.
Yakshagana performances are comprehensive theatrical productions that encompass music, dance, and dramatic elements. The epics of Ramayana, Mahabharata, and the Puranas have a significant influence on the primarily rural audience. The Yakshagana performance typically begins with a Puja (ritual) to Lord Ganesha’s divinity, followed by the introduction of ‘Kodangis’ as comic characters. A narrator delivers the story in a song-like fashion, accompanied by musicians playing traditional instruments such as chandelions, a maddale, and a tala, usually performed by a team of three musicians. The performers act out the narrative in synchronization with the music.
6. Goravara kunita
Goravara kunita is a traditional dance dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva, renowned in both Mysore and North Karnataka. It is a cultural practice that exhibits minor regional differences but remains popular throughout the state. In Karnataka, groups of 10 to 11 men, primarily from the Gorava community, perform Gorava Kunitha. These Goravas are known for their strong devotion to Lord Shiva, making the dance a significant part of their religious and cultural expression.
7. Togalu Gombeyaata
Togalu Gombeyaata is a unique form of shadow puppetry that is exclusive to Karnataka. This age-old art tradition remains vibrant in rural areas of the state, employing leather puppets to narrate stories and depict themes inspired by epic and mythological tales.
8. Joodu Haligi
The Joodu Haligi features a pair of percussion instruments, one of which is the Haligi. Crafted from buffalo skin, this circular drum is played using a small stick. What distinguishes this dance form is the remarkable energy and expressive emotions conveyed by two or three performers. This notable dance is typically performed during the Mysore Dasara festival, rooted in Hindu mythology and observed during the Hindu months of Shravana and Karthika.
9. Krishna Parijatha
Krishna Parijatha is a traditional folk theatre form from Karnataka that is sometimes considered a hybrid of Yakshagana and Byalatta, and at other times, a regional variation of Yakshagana. It has been described as a blend of Yakshagana and Byalatta, as well as a localized version of Yakshagana. While its open-air performances align it with Byalatta, the use of a single narrator, similar to the ‘Bhagavat’ in Yakshagana, leans more towards the latter. Krishna Parijatha is well-known in Northern Karnataka and is a recognized folk religious theatre style with performances ranging from village squares to outdoor marketplaces.
In Karnataka, Krishna Parijatha incorporates traditional themes from Hindu mythology’s extensive repertoire. Stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata are frequently featured in Karnataka’s Krishna Parijatha performances. Makeup is commonly applied, and music and dance are intricately woven into the presentation. Both prose and poetry are employed to convey timeless principles. These captivating folk performances typically unfold during the night, led by a single narrator, often assisted by a clown or Vidushaka.
10. Veerabhadra Kunitha
The story is conveyed through the dance form ‘Veerabhadra,’ the divine being (a minor God) born from Rudra’s (Lord Shiva’s) fury, intended to teach his father-in-law Daksha a lesson. This tale unfolds after Dakshayani (Sati), Shiva’s consort, immolates herself in the yagna fire, prompting Rudra’s intervention to disrupt Daksha’s Yagna (fire sacrifice). Bhadrakali, his companion or consort, also emerges from Devi’s anger. Veerabhadra is tasked with going to the yagna site and thwarting the ritual. Consequently, the dance depicts this confrontational scenario. Dancers adorn traditional full-color attire and sport long white hair with facial sculptures on their heads. They sway back and forth, wielding a blade in one hand.
11. Komb-aat (Komb Dance)
Komb-aat is a form of devotional dance frequently observed in temples, traditionally executed by Kodava men. This dance involves the use of deer horns, symbolizing the horns of the Krishna Mruga, a spotted deer in Kodava mythology. The performance is accompanied by rhythmic melodies produced through wind instruments and drums.
12. Kamsale
Kamsale, also known as Beesu Kamsale, represents an expressive dance form deeply rooted in Kannada culture, seamlessly blending artistic grace with martial prowess. Primarily flourishing in districts such as Mysore, Nanjagud, Kollegal, and Bangalore in Karnataka, Kamsale holds profound religious significance. It serves as a narrative of the divine magnificence of Lord Mahadeswara Shiva, with its practitioners vowing lifelong devotion to the deity. This art form is meticulously passed down through a well-preserved tradition, ensuring the continuity of its heritage from mentor to disciple.
13. Pata Kunitha
Pata Kunitha is a well-loved traditional dance genre in Karnataka, particularly cherished by the residents of the Mysore district. Similar to other Kunithas or ceremonial dance-dramas, Pata Kunitha carries a predominantly religious essence. This spiritual dance is exclusively performed by men, featuring the use of long bamboo poles known as “pata,” adorned with colorful ribbons. Interestingly, there is minimal verbal commentary, with the main focus placed on the rhythm and the skill of the dancers. This captivating display of vibrant enthusiasm enjoys widespread popularity, transcending religious boundaries and appealing to individuals from diverse faiths.
14. Bolak-aat (Bolak Dance)
Bolak-aat is an open-air performance that showcases Kodava men dressed entirely in black attire, illuminated by the warm glow of an oil lantern. This traditional dance involves the dancers holding yak fur, referred to as “chavari,” in one hand and the Kodava short sword, known as “odi kathi,” in the other. The rhythmic accompaniment is provided by the dudi, an hourglass-shaped drum. Bolak-aat is customarily performed to commemorate significant events and festive celebrations.
15. Ummatt-aat
Kodava women, adorned in traditional Kodava attire, including jewelry and the distinctive kumkuma on their foreheads, partake in the ummatt-aat dance. This circular dance is carried out to the sway of a rhythmic beat, with the dancers holding brass cymbals. At the center stands a woman holding a jug of water, symbolizing the Mother of Kaveri. This dance is a heartfelt tribute to the sacred Kaveri River, revered by the Kodava community.
16. Puja Kunitha (Pooja Kunitha)
Puja Kunitha is a ceremonial dance dedicated to the worship of Goddess Shakti in all her manifestations, particularly prevalent in the regions of Bangalore and Mandya.
This dance is a captivating spectacle often featured in religious festivals, processions, and fairs celebrating Goddess Shakti. What sets it apart is its emphasis on the visual aspect of the performance rather than relying on auditory narration.
A distinctive feature of Puja Kunitha is the artistic use of bamboo poles, creatively adorned, which the dancers sway in harmony with the music. Additionally, the performers carry Shakti statues atop large wooden structures on their heads.
This dance form is a vibrant expression of devotion and artistry, closely tied to the worship of Goddess Shakti in these regions.
17. Kangadilo Kunitha
Kangadilo kunitha is a traditional Tulu dance genre rooted in Karnataka. This dance form is predominantly performed by men, and their attire is adorned with coconut palm tender leaves and garlands of flowers. The musical accompaniment includes drums and flutes, creating a rhythmic atmosphere. Typically, a group of five to seven dancers executes coordinated movements, led by a primary performer, often an elder with white hair and a white mustache.
Karnataka’s dances not only showcase artistic expressions but also embody the rich cultural heritage of the state. Karnataka is renowned for its diverse languages, arts, crafts, and cultural festivals. Therefore, if you’re planning a trip to Karnataka, make sure to include Karnataka dance performances in your itinerary to experience the essence of its cultural past.
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Thanks Venkateshan 🙂