Skip to main content

Karakattam a tamil folk dance

Karakattam (Tamil: கரகாட்டம் or "karakam (கரகம் 'water pot') dance") is an ancient folk dance of Tamil Nadu performed in praise of the rain goddess Mariamman.The ancient Tamil epic says that this type of dance has derived from Bharatham and a mixture of multiple forms of Tamil Dance forms like Bharatanatyam postures,mudras.The offering of this dance is to the goddess to bless Rain. The song accompanies be of any song like folk, Carnatic (Amrithavarshini). The performers balance a pot on their head. Traditionally, this dance is categorized into two types- Aatta Karakam is danced with decorated pots on the head and symbolizes joy and happiness. It is mainly performed to entertain the audience. The Sakthi Karakam is performed only in temples as a spiritual offering. Karakkatam ceremonial dance to invoke rain through a classical Tamil dance.The song commonly composed in Amrithavarshini Ragam ( Ragamalika) that invoke rain.Tamils believed that the mother nature gives bountiful rain and protect the harvest. In 1989, a Tamil movie, Karagattakaran, was made that featured its central characters practitioners of karakattam. The movie went on to become very popular and an advertisement for the dance form, especially because of the music by Ilaiyaraja and, in particular, the song, "Maanguyilae Poonguyile."

Comments

Most visited

🥁 Thappattam (Parai Attam): The Rhythmic Soul of Tamil Nadu

🌿 Introduction Thappattam , also known as Parai Attam , is one of the oldest and most dynamic traditional art forms of Tamil Nadu. Rooted deeply in Tamil culture, it is a mesmerizing blend of drumming, dance, and storytelling . More than just performance, it is an expression of community, resistance, celebration, and identity . Originally used as a tool of communication and announcements in villages, the Parai evolved into a powerful performance art form that continues to echo the resilience and heritage of Tamil society , especially the voices of the marginalized. 🥁 The Instrument: Parai (Thappu) The word “Parai” means to speak or to tell . True to its name, the Parai drum is not just an instrument—it is a storyteller. Materials: Traditionally crafted from neem or tamarind wood, with cow or goat skin stretched across the frame. Technique: Played while standing, using two distinct sticks— sundu kucchi (slender stick) and adi kucchi (flat stick). The beats are stron...

Oyilattam: The Graceful Tamil Folk Dance of Rhythmic Movements

Introduction Oyilattam , a vibrant and energetic folk dance from Tamil Nadu, is a mesmerizing art form that blends rhythmic movements, colorful costumes, and traditional music. The word “Oyil” means grace or beauty , and “Attam” means dance —together, they describe a performance that celebrates elegance and cultural pride. Often showcased during festivals and community gatherings, Oyilattam is not just entertainment—it’s a living expression of Tamil heritage and unity. 🌿 Origins and Cultural Significance Oyilattam traces its roots to rural Tamil Nadu, where it was traditionally performed by men during harvest festivals, temple rituals, and even to mark victories in battle. Over the years, women too began participating, enriching the art form with new layers of expression and vibrancy. This dance carries deep cultural meaning, symbolizing unity, valor, and devotion . It is most commonly performed during: Pongal – the harvest festival of Tamil Nadu 🌾 Temple festivals ...

Fact-Check Blog Post: What Are Singapore’s Official Languages?

  Singapore is one of the world’s most linguistically diverse nations, home to multiple cultures, traditions, and language groups. Yet, there is frequent confusion online about what Singapore’s official language actually is . Some claim it is English, others say Malay, and many believe all four major languages share the same official status. This blog post provides a clear, fact-checked breakdown of Singapore’s language policy, based on constitutional information and government sources. ✅ FACT CHECK #1: Singapore has four official languages According to the Singapore Constitution, the country officially recognises four languages : 1. English 2. Malay 3. Mandarin Chinese 4. Tamil These four languages reflect Singapore’s multicultural population and form the foundation of its communication system. ✔ Used in education ✔ Used in administration ✔ Used in public signage ✔ Used in official government communication All four carry official status, but each plays a different ...