Dollu Kunitha
Dollu Kunitha (Kannada:ಡೊಳ್ಳು ಕುಣಿತ), is a major popular drum dance of Karnataka.
Background
In all temples of
is hung by means of a thick thread tied to hooks in the ceiling. Every time worship is offered to Beereshwara, there should be an instantaneous beating of the dollu.This expressive literature its oral tradition goes by the legend called 'Halumatha Purana' or Kuruba Purana. The story is that the demon Dolla-asura worshipped Shiva[1] devotedly and, when Shiva appeared before him, asked him to ask for a boon; that he should be able to swallow Shiva himself, or else he requests immortality which Shiva refuses so that the enraged Dollu swallow's Shiva. Shiva started growing big. The asura, unable to bear the pain, pleaded for Shiva to come out. Shiva tore open the demon, thus killing him, and came out. Shiva used the skin of the asura to make a dollu/drum and gave it to the rustics, his devotees, the “Halu Kurubas”. The “Halu Kuruba” tribes in Shimoga follow this tradition even today.
The performers form a semi-circle and involve in extremely swift and supple movements. The beat is controlled and directed by a leader with cymbals who is positioned in the centre. Slow and fast rhythms alternate and group weaves varied patterns. The costumes are simple. The upper part of the body is usually left bare while a black sheet-rug is tied on the lower body over the `dhooti` or sarong.
The troupe consists of about a dozen artistes as dancing partners. Against the background we[who?] have tala, tappadi,[what language is this?] trumpets, gong and flute, raised to a high-pitched tenor. These instruments are perforce used to reinforce the rich vibrations of Dollu. A miniature model of Dollu, easy to carry in hand, and handle it for beating – is often employed while singing a distinct class of songs-Dollu Songs/Drum Songs. Because there is beating of Dollu here by the fingers.
Other forms
References
- ^ a b "Dollu Kunitha (Drum Dance)". karnatakatourism.org. Retrieved 22 February 2024.