Butta Bommalu Dance: A Colorful and Mesmerizing Performance from Andhra Pradesh

Butta Bommalu is a unique folk dance that originated in the Tanuku district of Andhra Pradesh situated in the West Godavari district and has gained significant popularity in the region. The dance derives its name from Tarakasena, the ruler of the place who was a demon king.

West Godavari District is an important city known for migratory birds, and the famous Kolleru Lake is located here. Tanaku lies on the western side of the Godavari River, which flows through the Andra Pradesh River, the life-giving river of the state.

Folk dance refers to a variety of dances of European origin that gained popularity in the 19th century. Since they are mostly imitated from Western culture, modifications have been made to give these dances an Indian flavor. A distinctive feature of folk dances like Butta Bommalu is that this dance is never restricted to aristocratic people.

Performance of Butta Bommalu Dance

The Butta Bommalu dance is a favorite among children due to its use of oversized figurines as props. The dolls are large and very colorful, and the entire dance environment of the performance is very mesmerizing.

To perform this dance, the dancer does not need any particular technique to be used. It is so simple that anyone can learn it. It takes some practice, but not for too long. The dancers do not sing or speak. They only imitate the actions of the character they are portraying.

The dancers dance very delicately and elegantly. Although this dance performance can be performed by a single performer, it is usually performed in a group of four to eight people.

Costume of Butta Bommalu Dance

The performer of Butta Bommalu wears a costume made from bamboo sticks, cow dung, paint, and dry grass. Crafted from lightweight bamboo sticks, this hollow object is effortlessly carried by dancers during performances.

The dolls are open at the bottom so the dancer can slip into them. They look like dancing puppets. These costumes are painted with colorful colors. Each dancer wears a costume on the head, shoulder, and waist. The dress of Krishna, Rama, Shiva, Parvati, Hanuman, etc. is very popular.

This dance can be seen during many festivals in Andhra Pradesh. The type of doll used also depends on the festival. If it is Navratri, Goddess dolls will be used, if it is Dussehra dolls, Rama and Hanuman dolls will be used. Hanuman costume is popular among children. Hanuman dancers do monkey tricks to present their role powerfully.

Music Used In Butta Bommalu Dance

Band, Dhole, and Sonnayi are used as accompaniment in Butta Bommalata. The troupe consists of at least ten members, four of whom are in puppets and dancing, four who play instruments, one instructor, and the leader of the ensemble. This is only a silent dance, accompanied only by the sounds of instruments.

Overall, Butta Bommalu is a delightful and colorful folk dance that celebrates the rich culture and traditions of Andhra Pradesh.

Some FAQs:-

Q: What is Butta Bommalu Dance?

A: Butta Bommalu is a unique folk dance that originated in the Tanuku district of Andhra Pradesh. It is characterized by the use of oversized figurines as props and is popular among children due to its mesmerizing environment.

Q: How is Butta Bommalu performed?

A: The dance is performed by imitating the actions of the character portrayed in the figurines and is accompanied by traditional instruments like a Band, Dhole, and Sonnayi. The dancers wear costumes made of bamboo sticks, cow dung, paint, and dry grass, which are painted with bright colors.

Q: What is the significance of Butta Bommalu Dance?

A: Butta Bommalu is a popular folk dance in Andhra Pradesh and is performed during various festivals. It is a unique and colorful dance form that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Q: Can anyone perform Butta Bommalu Dance?

A: Yes, anyone can perform Butta Bommalu as it does not require any special technique or training. However, some practice is required to perform the dance elegantly.

Q: What instruments are used in Butta Bommalu Dance?

A: Traditional instruments like Band, Dhole, and Sonnayi are used as accompaniment in Butta Bommalu. The troupe consists of at least ten members, four of whom are in puppets and dancing, four who play instruments, one instructor, and the leader of the ensemble.

Conclusion

Butta Bommalu Folk Dance is a unique and colorful dance form that originated in the Tanuku district of Andhra Pradesh. It is characterized by the use of oversized figurines as props and is popular among children due to its mesmerizing environment. The dance is performed by imitating the actions of the character portrayed in the figurines and is accompanied by traditional instruments like Band, Dhole, and Sonnayi. The dancers wear costumes made of bamboo sticks, cow dung, paint, and dry grass, which are painted with bright colors. Butta Bommalu is a popular folk dance in Andhra Pradesh and is performed during various festivals.