Dance

Yakshagana: Yakshagana is a highly stylized dance-drama form that is performed to narrate Hindu mythological stories. The dancers wear elaborate costumes, masks, and headdresses, and use hand gestures and expressions to convey the emotions and actions of the characters. The music of Yakshagana is based on traditional Carnatic ragas and is performed live by a group of musicians. The performance usually lasts for several hours and is performed in a temple or community hall.

Kariyanchaattu: Kariyanchaattu is a lively dance that is performed during the harvest season. The dance is performed by a group of women, who wear traditional Kodava attire and dance in a circle, accompanied by singing and drumming. The dance is characterized by synchronized hand gestures and foot movements and is often performed to celebrate the abundance of the harvest and to show gratitude to the gods.

Koombaattu: Koombaattu is a martial dance that is performed by the Kodava men to showcase their skills with weapons. The dance is performed with swords, shields, and other weapons, and involves acrobatic movements and elaborate footwork. The dance is usually performed during weddings and other festive occasions and is meant to display the physical and martial prowess of the Kodava men.

Bhootaata: Bhootaata is a dance-drama form that is performed to appease the spirits of the dead. The dancers wear masks and costumes that represent various spirits and ghosts, and the performance is meant to bring peace to the spirits and to ward off evil. The dance is usually performed during the Hindu festival of Navaratri.

Kaikottikalli: Kaikottikalli is a dance performed by the Kodava women during weddings and other festive occasions. The dance is performed in a circle and involves hand movements and synchronized steps, and is accompanied by singing and drumming.

Panchari Melam: Panchari Melam is a percussion ensemble that is performed by the Kodavas during weddings and other festive occasions. The ensemble is comprised of several percussion instruments, including the chenda, maddalam, and edakka, and is accompanied by singing. The Panchari Melam is characterized by fast and intricate rhythms and is meant to provide a lively and energetic backdrop for the celebrations.

Kambala Jogi: Kambala Jogi is a dance-drama form that is performed by the Jogi community, who are traditionally associated with the Kodavas. The dance involves the use of masks and costumes and is performed to narrate Hindu mythological stories. The Kambala Jogi is characterized by its use of mime and gesture and is meant to entertain and educate the audience.

Chikkara: Chikkara is a traditional dance that is performed by the Kodavas during the festival of Ugadi. The dance is performed by a group of women, who dance in a circle and use synchronized hand gestures and foot movements. The dance is accompanied by singing and drumming and is meant to celebrate the arrival of the new year and to show gratitude to the gods.

These are a few of the other dances that are performed by the Kodavas. As with the other dances, these dances may have changed or evolved over time and may vary from region to region. However, they continue to be an important part of the cultural heritage of the Kodava community and are performed with great enthusiasm and passion.