Folk Dance and Folk Songs of Tamil Nadu | Tamil Nadu State PSC (TNPSC): Preparation - TNPSC (Tamil Nadu) PDF Download

Introduction 

Tamil Nadu, a state in Southern India, is renowned for its rich tradition of folk dance and music. These art forms reflect the cultural heritage, religious practices, and social life of its people. Each form of dance and music carries historical significance and embodies the spirit of Tamil Nadu’s diverse traditions. Here’s a detailed look at some of the prominent folk dances and music of Tamil Nadu.

Folk Dance and Music of Tamil Nadu

• Overview: Karakattam, also known as Karagam, is a traditional dance where performers balance a pot on their heads. This dance is deeply rooted in Tamil culture and was originally performed to honor rain goddess Mari Amman and river goddess Gangai Amman.
• Types of Karagam:
  • Aatta Karagam: Performed with a decorated pot, symbolizing joy and celebration. It is commonly seen during festivals and in temple rituals.
  • Sakthi Karagam: Involves a fire pot and is usually performed during rituals in Mariamman or Durga temples.
• Evolution: Traditionally accompanied by Naiyandi Melam (a type of folk music), today it includes songs and has evolved with modern materials, such as bronze and stainless steel pots. The pots are adorned with flower arrangements and paper parrots that move as the dancer performs.
• Popularity: Though originating in Thanjavur, Karakattam is popular throughout Tamil Nadu, with performances often including acrobatics and stunts.

Kavadi Aattam

• Overview: Kavadi Aattam, or 'Burden Dance,' is a religious dance performed during the Thaipusam festival to worship Lord Murugan, the God of War.
• Preparation: Devotees prepare for 48 days by following strict religious practices, including vegetarianism and fasting.
• Significance: The Kavadi, a decorative burden carried by devotees, symbolizes their devotion and offerings to Lord Murugan. It can contain items like rice or milk.
• Rituals: Participants perform various rituals to seek divine assistance and protection from calamities.

Bommalaattam (Puppetry)

• Overview: Bommalaattam, or puppetry, is a traditional form of entertainment performed during festivals and fairs. It involves manipulating puppets through strings or wires.
• Storytelling: Puppetry shows depict stories from puranas, epics, and folklore, engaging audiences of all ages with their colorful performances and dramatic storytelling.

Therukoothu (Street Theatre)

• Overview: Therukoothu is a vibrant form of street theatre performed in Tamil. It combines elements of drama, music, and dance, primarily focusing on epic tales from the Mahabharata and Ramayana.
• Characteristics: Performed in public spaces, Therukoothu features colorful costumes and musical instruments like harmonium, drums, and cymbals. It has a strong appeal due to its accessibility and relatable themes.
• Modern Efforts: Recent efforts have been made to promote Therukoothu beyond Tamil Nadu, showcasing its unique blend of performing arts.

Poikkaal Kuthirai Aattam

• Overview: Known as one of Tamil Nadu’s oldest folk dances, Poikkaal Kuthirai Aattam involves dancers wearing horse costumes and performing during festivals and village celebrations.
• Cultural Influence: This dance has inspired similar forms across India, including Saithikoda in Orissa and Kuthikali in Kerala.
• Performance: It is characterized by lively drum beats and energetic movements, encouraging audience participation.

Oyilattam

• Overview: Oyilattam is a traditional dance form originating from Southern Tamil Nadu, particularly from regions like Tirunelveli and Madurai.
• Historical Roots: Initially performed by men in temples, Oyilattam has evolved to include women dancers. It is characterized by rhythmic steps performed in a line, accompanied by Thavil music.
• Significance: The dance reflects the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu and continues to be a celebrated part of regional festivals.

Urumi Aattam

• Overview: Urumi Aattam is a temple art form performed during festivals. It features the urumi (a type of percussion instrument) and Thappu (another percussion instrument).
• Performance: The dance involves rhythmic beats from the urumi and Thappu, creating a melodious and captivating performance during temple celebrations.

Silambattam

• Overview: Silambattam is a traditional martial art and dance form dating back to the Pandya kings. It involves the use of bamboo staves and has historical significance in Tamil Nadu.
• Historical Context: Silambattam was not only a form of entertainment but also a method of defense. It was practiced by soldiers and is mentioned in ancient Tamil literature.
• Modern Relevance: The art form continues to be performed and has influenced similar martial arts in other Indian states.

Devaraatham

• Overview: Devaraatham is a folk dance performed by the descendants of the Veerapandiya Kattabomman dynasty in Kodangipatti, Madurai District.
• Historical Connection: It combines ancient dance forms and is performed near temples as part of community celebrations.

Melody of the Kulavai

• Overview: The Kulavai is a unique sound produced by women engaged in agricultural work in Thanjavur. It involves rhythmic sounds made with the tongue to speed up work and entertain visitors.
• Cultural Significance: The Kulavai song is an integral part of Tamil Nadu’s agricultural traditions and reflects the region’s rich musical heritage.

Nayyandi Melam

• Overview: Nayyandi Melam, or Chinna Melam, is a rustic music form that accompanies folk dances and dramas. It features a mix of Nadaswarams, drums, and cymbals.
• Performance: Musicians play and dance simultaneously, adding a dynamic element to performances of Karagam, Kavadi, and other folk dances.

Villu Paattu

• Overview: Villu Paattu is a narrative musical form where the main singer, accompanied by a chorus and musical instruments, tells stories using a bow (Villu) with bells.
• Popularity: This art form is popular among both rural and urban audiences, known for its engaging storytelling and musical charm.

Classical Music and Dance of Tamil Nadu

Bharatanatyam

• Overview: Bharatanatyam is a classical dance form from Tamil Nadu, with origins dating back over 2000 years. It is deeply rooted in the Natya Shastra, an ancient text on performing arts.
• Performance: The dance involves expressive storytelling through intricate footwork, gestures, and music. Accompanists include singers, musicians, and a guru who guides the performance.
• Historical Evidence: Bharatanatyam is represented in ancient temple sculptures and paintings, reflecting its historical and cultural significance.

Pann

• Overview: Pann is the classical music form of Southern India, which later became known as Carnatic music. It is performed during temple festivals and has a long history in Tamil Nadu.
• Significance: Pann music continues to be an integral part of Tamil Nadu’s cultural landscape, with Chennai hosting major cultural events like the Madras Music Season.