Devaraattam Dance

Devaraattam is a social and ritual folk dance of Silavaar section of Kambala Nayakar community and is still preserved by the descendents of Veerapandiya Kattabomman dynasty at Kodangipatti of Madurai District in its purest form. They believed that they are the direct descendants of the 'devas' or gods and hence, the name Devaraattam. It was actually performed annually in the temple courtyards uniquely for their own community. Research has, however, concluded that, Devaraattam is a combination of ancient 'Muntherkuruvai' and 'Pintherkuruvai' of the ancient Tamil Kings. It used to be performed on the joyous occasion of a King's return on victory in front of and on his chariot.

Dressed in colorful attire swinging a handkerchief in each hand as they dance, the Devaraattam dance imitates the motions of everyday life of Madurai. Fast and fluent movements to the rhythmic beats of 'Deva Thunthubi' - a drum-shaped percussion instrument, make this dance a true pleasure to behold. The dance is performed solely by men during festivals, marriages and other social occasions. Devaraattam does not have any songs but is only danced to the beat of Urumi Melam, Thappu Melam and sometimes, a long flute. The lead dancer wears a false beard and a mask adorned with shells to look like teeth.

Film directors have tried to adapt Devaraattam to suit present-day filmi tastes but Devaraattam dancers continue to have faith in the age old tradition. The 18 basic steps of the Devaraattam give rise to several permutations and combinations, 72 of which have been standardized. Many of these dancers continue with their agricultural work along with their modern-day profession. The troupes also perform Devaraattam as street plays to educate people about social and religious issues. Tanjavur University is also offering Devaraattam as a subject of research and efforts are constantly in process to retain the original dance form.