Karnataka - Madikeri   

`Janapada Jaatre,' a big draw

Staff Correspondent

Eighteen troupes from the district enthralled the crowd

MADIKERI: The "Janapada Jaatre", organised in the fort here, seat of former rulers of Kodagu on Tuesday evening, turned out be a big draw. Eighteen cultural troupes from all over the district enthralled the packed crowd. The beauty of the show was that it was organised overlooking the fort, where once the former rulers used to hold "public durbar".

The traditional Kodava volaga was the first to come up, led by Narasayya and team from Ammathi. And, they performed with usual elan. "Ummathat" by Kodava women from Kottur in Cherambane stole many hearts. They presented graceful andlively movements in praise of goddess Cauvery.

"Dudikott Pat" by traditionally attired Kodava men, added glittter to the display.

The "Bhootakola" dance by Devappa and team reflected its presence and importance in the district. The "Erava Cheeni" by Mutha and team featured members of the Erava community.

The "Daff" dance by the members of the Muslim community from Begoor provided variety. Kodagu Gowda Mahila Samaja performed "Kolata" dance, wielding their wands in a set motion.

Of course, the Jenu Kurubas, who came next, did have a little problem adjusting to the rhythm initially, but once they got it, they went on with aplomb. Artistes, Kumaraswamy, Shantalli Ganesh, and A.P. Rajappa, came up with folk songs that were tinged with stories of rural life.

Farmers' life

Shankarayya and team from Madapur displayed the usual routine of farmers who toiled hard in the paddy fields to reap the harvest. The "Kangeelu Nritya" by Ganapayya and team, featured a man masquerading as horse, accompanied by fellow dancers.

The drum- beats too matched the dance. The "Bolakkat" by the experienced team from Mukkodlu, was performed with usual ease and flair. The show, part of the Suvrana Karnataka celebrations, was put together in a matter of few days by artistes themselves.

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