Karadiyattam

In Palghat district of Kerala, the Urula tribal community perform Karadiyattam. Men and women of all ages perform it. About ten to thirteen dancers are requited to perform the dance. The main aim of the dance is to propitiate the gods, but it is believed that the performance of the dance makes the departed souls of the community more comfortable. The dancers move in a circular way and sing while dancing. The main refrain of the song is, “Ele le le… Karadi Ele le le”. The percussion music is provided by Para and Thakil, both drums. The melodic accompaniment is provided by Kuzhal, a wind instrument. The dancers wear their usual dress and dance around a bonfire which is the only light source for the dance.