Silvester D' Souza

Daijiworld Media Network – Kundapur (EP)

Kundapur, Oct 1: "Our heartbeats rise when we think of tigers. But when we watch the dance steps of those whose bodies are painted like tigers and who are in tiger costumes dancing to rhythm, we too feel like dancing with them. Kalakshetra from here has taken special initiative to conserve traditional tiger dances unique to this region by organizing tiger dances every year.

There are many tiger dancers who do not come out during festivals like Krishna Janmastami and Chowthi. However they cannot stay away from donning roles of tigers and roaring enthusiastically during the nine days of Navaratri. One can see such tiger dancers only in this town.

These tiger dancers have a history. Their ancestors have been performing tiger dances spread over successive generations over a period of three hundred years. They have been traditionally involved with donning 'Hulivesha' and performing tiger dances. These dancers have a traditional touch to their attires. Their dances also have a unique style.

Though the times have changed from preparation of colours with the help of plants and coal to artificial colours, the tiger dance performers from here have not given up the tradition of their ancestors. They shave all the hair from their bodies before applying colour. They need a special kind of music for their art.

Tiger dances performed by stalwarts like Sumba, Koraga, Rajiva and Neela used to stun the citizens of this region in the past. This area had witnessed performances by such dancers. The dancers of the fourth generation in their lineage have continued with their traditions.

Some years back they were on the verge of stopping their art due to financial constraints and the pain felt after applying colour to their bodies. But members of Kalakshetra Sanghatane felt that the tigers of the region are unique and yearned to see that their tribe remains in the field and continues with the exhibition its skills and therefore created a platform for them. It is hoped that more organizations will rise to the occasion and help the tiger dancers to stay with the art in the future.