Folk Dances of Andhra Pradesh

The state of Andhra Pradesh is well-known for its rich culture and heritage. The richness of culture is evident from the collection of a variety of performing arts, drama, music and dance. Kuchipudi is one of the popular classical dances of India which has been originated in this state. Besides Kuchipudi, which is considered as the replica of Bharatnatyam, the state of Andhra Pradesh has several other dance forms.

1. Bhamakalpam: Presenting a perfect blend of dance and drama, Bhamakalpam is a folk dance of the State of Andhra Pradesh that emerged from the popular dance Kuchipudi. A type of devotional dance, Bhamakalpam was founded by Siddhendra Yogi during the 17[SUP]th[/SUP] century. Bahamakalpam depicts the story of Satyabhāma, the charismatic yet jealous wife of Lord Krishna. The dance recital starts by purifying the place and also by performing religious rituals. The roles of this dance-drama are usually played by the males. This folk dance exemplifies the feminine dance movements that add to the grace of this dance form. This folk dance encompasses complex gestures and elaborate as well as imposing expressions, which are to be seen in Kuchipudi.
2. Veeranatyam: Also known as the Dance of Destruction, Veeranatyam is a dance form of the Veeraamusti community. This dance is generally performed at Draksharamam temple in East Godavari District. It is believed that the people belonging to Veeraamusti community are the decedents of Veerbhadra, who was born from the long strand of hair that Lord Shiva plucked from his head. The name Veeratnatyam is associated with the dance of Lord Shiva, which was performed by Lord Shiva when he got ferocious because of the death of his wife Sati and the humiliation that she faced at her maternal house. Veeranam, Tambura, Tasha, Dolu and Soolam are the various instruments used in the performance of this dance.
3. Kolattam: One of the most popular folk dances of Andhra Pradesh is Kolattam. This is also known as “Stick dance” and resembles the popular dance form of Gujarat, Dandia Dance. Kolattam is also known by the names of Kolannalu and Kolkolannalu and is a dance form that is usually performed during village festivals. This dance form is a blend of rhythm, music and folk songs and comprises 8 to 40 participants who are grouped in pairs. This dance form is a delight to watch.
4. Gobbi Dance: Gobbi Dance is one of the famous dances of the coastal region of Andhra Pradesh and is a prime attraction during the Samkranti festival. During this time, the patios of all houses are cleaned and adorned with flowers and different kinds of rangavallis. Gobbillu i.e. balls of cow dung are placed in the middle of these rangavalli designs and worshipped with flowers, kumkum and turmeric in a ritualistic way. During evening time, young girls gather around this gobbillu to dance and sing. This particular dance form resembles the Gujarati dance form, Garba.
5. Mathuri Dance: Unique tribal dances performed during the rainy month of Shravana by the Mathuri tribes living in Adilabad district of the Andhra. It is a dance in which men and women folk participate together, women participants forming the inner circle and men the outer semi-circle. The dancers sing themselves devotional and secular songs at the time of dance. The men strike the small sticks and the women clap to mark the time. It is said that the Mathuri dances have a close resemblance to Rasa-Lila of Uttar Pradesh. It is believed that the Mathuri tribe actually came from Mathura and therefore the dance is named accordingly.
6. Dhamal Dance: A typical ceremonial dance of Siddis of Hyderabad region, Dhamal Dance is a mimetic martial dance. This beautiful dance form of India is ceremonial in nature performed especially on the occasion of marriage. Swords and shields are used while performing this dance. The costumes that are worn by dancers of Dhamal Dance are of vivid colors and the rhythmic body movement grabs the attention of onlookers.
7. Burrakatha: A unique folk dance of Andhra Pradesh is Burrakatha and has a distinct form of tradition of storytelling. Burra Katha named after the musical instrument "Burra", which is a modern form of ballad singing. It is believed that this dance is evolved from traditional Tandana Katha, this dance art preaches, entertains and provides relaxation to the rural folk. In performing Burrakatha, the group consists of three artistes one being at the center and the other two acts as assistants under him known as Vantalu. The primary instrument played while performing this folk dance is Tambura after which this dance form has derived its name. While the duration of the entire show is time bound, the metrical composition differs at different stages depicting the moods and incidents. Besides meters like Dwipada, Daruvu, Kandardhas, Kirtans the ballads compositions now contains the variety of songs in form and content.
8. Dhimsa: A dance form of the hilly terrain of Vishakapatam, Dhimsa is a tribal dance of the state of Andhra Pradesh. This dance is performed during the month of Chaitra of the Hindu calendar and between March and April of the English Calendar. Dhimsa dance is performed by 15-20 women forming a chain in the Araku Valley, wearing typical tribal costume and ornaments.
9. Butta Bommalu: A popular dance of West Godavari’s Tanuku region in Andhra Pradesh, Butta Bommalu is special dance of the region, which is performed by wear mask. The dancers wear a mask portraying different characters while entertain the people with their special delicate movements which are accompanied by non verbal or silent music. This dance form is indeed a delight for the eyes.
10. Lambadi: A typical dance form of the Lambadi tribe this dance form is performed to celebrate remarkable sowing season or the harvest season. The dancers in this dance form beautify themselves with costumes that have glass beads embroidery, ornate jewelry, brass anklets, and ivory bangles.