The state of Andhra Pradesh has always been renowned for its vibrant culture. This outstanding state has introduced the globe to a diverse range of performing arts, including dance, theatre, and music. Dance has been the most thrilling form of performing art in India for ages. Dances popular in the state include Kolattam, Bhagotam, Burrakatha, Kuchipudi, Bhamakalapam, Butta Bommalu, Dappu, Perini, and Tappeta Gullu, among others. This article will inform you about the many folk dances of Andhra Pradesh with pictures. This article will let you know about the various Folk dances of Andhra Pradesh with Pictures, Here you’ll know about all the renowned dance forms of Andhra Pradesh with visuals that show you the specific moves of the specific dance form. You should read this below article carefully till the end to know more about the Folk Dances of Andhra Pradesh with Pictures.
Important Folk Dances of Andhra Pradesh
You can check the Important Dances of Andhra Pradesh from the below-given table.
| Folk Dances of Andhra Pradesh | Descriptions |
|---|---|
| Kuchipudi | Comprises dance along with fine gestures, song, and speech Conversant with acting, singing, language Include names like Lakshmi Narayan Shashtri, Chinta Krishna Murti, Vedantam Chinna Satyam |
| Lambadi | Decorated with beads, and embroidery and deck up well with jewelry, bangles, anklets nomads or banjaras perform this dance in a group of 15-20 dancers |
| Butta Bommalu | This is a folk dance which is very famous in Tanuku region of West GodavariDancers wear various kinds of masksThe dance is performed only on the beats of percussion instruments. |
| Veeranatyam | Veeranatyam refers to the dance of Lord ShivaVeeranatyam is also known as the Dance of DestructionIt is also popular as Veerangam or Veerabhadra Nrityam |
| Dandaria Dance | Dandaria dance is a stick dance that is performed by the Gond tribeThe guests and hosts dance in the anti-clockwise direction and dance to the beat of drums and trumpets |
| Mathuri Dance | This is a tribal dance performed by the Mathuri tribeWomen form the inner circle while men form the outer circle while dancing. |
Folk Dances of Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh is filled with the arts and cultures it involves various kinds of dramas, music, and dance. Here we’ve provided several Folk Dances of Andhra Pradesh with Pictures that will take you a little closer to the cultural forms of Andhra Pradesh.
Kuchipudi
The Kuchipudi dancing form originated in Andhra Pradesh. Dance, beautiful gestures, song, and discourse are all part of the dance form. To do this dance properly, you must be familiar with acting, singing, language, and theoretical understanding. Kuchipudi legends include Lakshmi Narayan Shashtri, Chinta Krishna Murti, Vedantam Chinna Satyam, and more. The Kuchipudi dance form was founded in the 17th century by Siddhendra Yogi during the Bhakti movement. The dance originated in the village of ‘Kuchipudi’ in Andhra Pradesh. This dancing form is quite similar to Bharatnatyam.
Lambadi
This is known as the nomads’ dance! This dance form is performed by the Lambadi tribe of Andhra Pradesh to commemorate the planting season and a good crop. They dress up in exquisite clothes embellished with beads and embroidery and accessorized with jewelry, bangles, and anklets. During festivals, nomads or banjaras do this dance in groups of 15-20 dancers.
Butta Bommalu
This is a popular folk dance in the Tanuku region of Andhra Pradesh’s West Godavari district. Butta bommalu literally translates to “basket toys.” Cow dung, wood husk, and dry grass were used to make these toys. The dancers wear a variety of masks. The dance, however, is solely performed to the beats of percussion instruments.
The masks worn during this dance depict a variety of personalities. They tend to improve entertainment value, and while there are delicate motions in this dance, there is no singing music!
Bhamakalpam and Gollkalpam
This performance combines dance and theatre — both! It is thought to have evolved from the Kuchipudi dance. This dance’s motions are delicate and feminine. Sidhendra Yogi inspired and pioneered both gollkalpam and bhamakalpam dances in the 17th century. The intention was to discourage prostitutes from learning this dance form. As a result, males from the Brahmin community were recruited and trained in the dance. This dance form’s meaning is enhanced by gestures and expressions.
Veeranatyam
Veeranatyam is a Lord Shiva dance that was done when the Lord was outraged by Sati’s death and humiliation. The Dance of Destruction is another name for Veeranatyam. This dance is still performed by members of the Veeramusti community, who claim to be Veerabhadra’s ancestors. This is an ancient Andhra Pradesh dancing genre with religious significance. Veerangam or Veerabhadra Nrityam are other names for it. Veer means “brave,” and this is a brave dance that is also mentioned in Hindu mythology.
Stick Dances of Andhra Pradesh
Dandaria Dance
Dandaria dance is a stick dance performed by the Gond tribe in the Hyderabad district’s northern section. The dancers travel to other places and are greeted warmly. This dance genre is done by guys, and ladies characters are also portrayed by young men dressed as women! The dancers are led by musicians. The guests and hosts dance counter-clockwise to the beat of drums, trumpets, and, yes, sticks clutched in their hands.
Mathuri Dance
The Mathuri tribe performs this tribal dance. This dance is performed during the rainy season (Shravana), and both men and women participate. While dancing and singing in unison, women form the inner circle and men form the outer circle. Men hit sticks while ladies clap to the beat of drums. It is similar to Uttar Pradesh’s Ras Lila. Mathuri tribe is originally from Mathura and settled here, hence their dance is known as ‘Mathuri dance’.
Kolatam
Kolatam is another type of stick dance that is quite famous in Andhra Pradesh. Kolannalu or Kolkolannalu dance is another name for it. It is a festival performance that includes music, dance, and song recital. The dancers range in age from 8 to 40 years old and dance in partners in circles with sticks providing the main rhythm. This dance is related to Gujarat’s ‘Dandiya dance’ and Rajasthan’s Garbha dance.
Folk Dances of Andhra Pradesh FAQs
Andhra Pradesh is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant folk dances. Some of the famous folk dances of Andhra Pradesh include Kuchipudi, Dhimsa, Veeranatyam, Tappeta Gullu, Lambadi, and Kolatam.
Kuchipudi is a classical dance form that originated in the village of Kuchipudi in Andhra Pradesh. It is known for its intricate footwork, graceful movements, and expressive storytelling.
Veeranatyam is a traditional folk dance form of Andhra Pradesh that showcases the valor and bravery of the warriors. It is typically performed by male dancers who portray mythological characters and engage in energetic movements, wielding swords or other weapons.
Lambadi dance is a tribal dance form performed by the Lambadi community in Andhra Pradesh. It is characterized by rhythmic movements, graceful hand gestures, and vibrant costumes. Lambadi dance often narrates stories of love, nature, and daily life.
Yes, each folk dance in Andhra Pradesh has its unique costumes and attire. In Kuchipudi, female dancers traditionally wear colorful sarees with intricate designs and jewelry. Male dancers typically wear dhotis and ornaments.