Kolattam- Stick Dance of Andhra Pradesh

Kolattam dance originated in the regions of Macherla, Ramappa, Hampi, Mahabalipuram, and Tripathi. It is also called Kolannalu dance. The main prop used in this dance is a stick. It is a must-have for every dancer during the performance. The name of the dance itself has been derived from this prop used in the dance. The word Kol means small stick and Attam means dance or play. Thus the word Kolattam means a stick dance.

Folklore Behind Kolannalu

There is a story behind Kolattam dance that involves a Rakshasa (demon) who used to do inhuman things. Everyone was bothered by this Asura. After people have had enough, some girls decided to change him into a good person. They performed Kolattam dance in front of him after which the demon was so pleased that he left all his evil deeds. In another term, it brought out the good in him. 

How Kolattam is Performed

Usually, girls perform the Kolattam dance. But there are no restrictions for men either. It is performed in a group of eight to forty. The dance is led by a leader in charge who takes care of every dancer’s movements and rhythm. Performers should be even in number so that everyone has a partner.

Kolannalu dance is based on the partnership of each dancer. The tune and dance are carried out from one partner to another partner. This is why it is not possible for a single dancer to perform this dance. The more the dancer will be the more amazing the performance will be. 

Kolattam festival is associated with this dance. Basava, the bull of Lord Shiva is the center of this festival. Basava also personifies Lord Shiva himself. 

The dance is said to be a performance based on the fight between Ganga and Parvati. 

Kolattam Costume

When the Kolannalu performance is being done on stage girls wear colorful skirts and sarees. Their sticks are decorated too with ornaments and bells. It is very important for sticks to be of fine quality because the major sound made during the performance is by them. 

When men and women participate in this dance they wear very plain clothes. Women wear plain sarees and men wear dhoti and shirt. 

Other Names of Kolattam

There are several other names by which the Kolattam dance is known. Some of them are given below.

• KolKollannalu
• Kolannalu
• Hallisaka
• Dandarasa

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