Kerala has a rich repertoire of folk dances. They reflect the temperaments and moods of the localities in music and costumes and are highly developed.  sowing of seeds festivals etc.  Most of the folk dances are performed to the accompaniment of songs, which are sung by the dancers themselves or occasionally by a group of musicians. Some are performed to the accompaniment of musical instruments only

The Kummatti,: This form of art is mostly found in Wayand, Trichur and Palakkad districts. The performers of Kummatti wear maska and the dress is made of grass and dry leaves. It is performed by different districts. In Trichur district, it is a form of social entertainment performed by youngsters of all communities. In order to receive the Blessings of the goddess. Sometimes eight or ten artists perform Kummatti, the leader of the team is Mother Kummatti holding a Kummatti stick. There is beating drum and singing with background music. Other characters like Sri Krishna, Sri Siva etc. are also seen on the stage. However Mother Kummatti’s appearance is most attractive, this character wears tha mask of a toothless old woman. The approach of Kummatti is indicated by the beating of a small drum. In Trichur it is performed for four days during Onam.

The Kurathiyattam: The Kurava Community perform this, during Temple Festivals. Both youngsters and middle – aged people perform this art. The artists consist consist of those who hunt the serpents, palmists and herb collectors. It is performed differently in the South and North. Only three artists perform in the south. Some times eight artists perform in the North. Very few musical instruments are used. The main characters are the Kurava and Kurathi who predict the future and also the wives of Vishnu and Siva. They dance with hand gestures. Expressing different types of emotions.

The Kanyarkali & Thayambaka: This is a very old art form permanent in Palakad District. It is a combination of Temple ritual and entertainment. It is played in four parts and lasts for four days. It is performed at night and continues till dawn.
Thayambaka: Group drummers numbering 50 or 100 or more accompanied by trumpets and cymbals, performing to a crescendo.


 

  << PREVIOUS                               NEXT >>