Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)

Mangaluru, Aug 3: Aati Kalanja is a form of ritualistic folk dance form that is practiced during the month of Aati, which is also known as Ashadha, which falls during rainy season, just after the work in agricultural fields comes to an end. Kalanja happens to be a spirit believed to be in charge of welfare of villagers, cattle, crops, etc. Aati festival is celebrated on the new moon day of Ashadha month.

Aati Kalanja in traditional make up and attire, conducts door-to-door visits, performs the traditional dance, utters blessings to protect family and its cattle against diseases, and their crops against pests. Aati Kalanja then collects the offerings made by the family, which usually happens to be in the form of rice, coconuts, turmeric, charcoal etc and leaves for the next house. This is a way found by people to get reassurance from the spirits that the villagers would be protested against hostile nature, spread of diseases and pests which is a natural phenomenon during rainy season. Aati Kalanja is also believed to demolish spirits which act under the direction of sorcerers and heap miseries on people.

Normally, people belonging to 'Nalike' community adorn themselves with costumes made of tender coconut fronds, wearing colourful clothes, long cap made of areca nut spate, and make up consisting of a number of colourful designs. The Kalanja also carries with him a parasol decorated with leaves and flowers. He dances to the accompaniment of singing of folk songs by members who accompany him, and the beating of a small percussion instrument known as 'Tembare'.

Aati Kalanja, which was practised almost in every village of Tulunadu till a few years ago, sadly, is on the wane. Rarely one comes across Aati Kalanjas now-a-days. Efforts are needed to conserve this folk art form based on popular belief, which is closely associated with nature and environment.