Dollu Kunitha

In all temples of Beereshwara,[1] the major instrument Dollu is hung by means of a thick thread tied to hooks in the ceiling.

Kuruba Gowdas sing with intonation distinct from other kinds of folk singers, tracing the origin of their genealogy, evolution and development over the ages.

Hardly any religious performance of a ritualistic ceremony or any village festival can ever take place without this dance, especially in North Karnataka.

Since this dance demands strength, muscle power and the spirit of endurance, only well-built sturdy persons of enough stamina alone can take to it.

A miniature model of Dollu, easy to carry in hand, and handle it for beating – is often employed while singing a distinct class of songs-Dollu Songs/Drum Songs.

Dollu Kunitha being performed
Dollu Kunitha performed by women
Dollu Kunitha - drum dance of Karnataka.at National folk festival, Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 26, 2017