Chakkai Attam Dance

One of the many forms of folk dance in Tamil Nadu, India is Chakkai Attam. It is a very old form of dance practiced in the areas of Tamil Nadu. 'Attam' means any kind of dance. When the word 'Chakkai' is added to it, a special kind of dance is understood.

Wooden pieces made out of teak are used in this type of dance. These are small rectangular wooden chunks, which are held between the dancers' fingers. These wooden pieces make a typical sound, which forms an integral part of the dance form Chakkai Attam. The dancers strike the wooden pieces to bring out the rhythmic sound.

The performers stand in parallel lines while dancing. They also form a circle and perform the dance. The music, which accompanies the dance form of Chakkai Attam, is usually devotional songs, that is, songs on Gods and Goddessess.