Question

Which are the traditional folk dances of the people of Lakshadweep Island?

Answer 1

Hint: Lakshadweep Island is one of the union territories and islands of India. It is a group of some three dozen islands scattered over some 30,000 square miles (78,000 square km) of the Arabian Sea off the southwestern coast of India. The island was discovered by a European explorer Marco Polo. The island is famous for its marine life.

Complete answer:
Kolkali dance is the traditional folk dance of the people of Lakshadweep Island. Kolakali dance is performed by the performers by moving in a circle, striking small sticks and keeping rhythms with special steps. The circle would gradually contract as the dance progresses. The dance is also practised by the inhabitants of the Malabar region of Kerala. There are two sets of players here, one inside and one outside. This is known as 'Kolkali,' because they are constantly shifting places. Even then, the players return to their starting positions. The music's pitch increases and the dance hits its peak. Kolkali, like Poorakali, incorporates elements from Kalaripayattu. Body postures, choreography, and footwork are all quite similar to Kalaripayattu. Poorakali also has Vandanam, Kalithozhal, and Chinthu.

Note: One can see several groups of enthusiastic youth of Payyannur and neighbouring areas performing Kolkali. In the past, women took an active part in Kolkali. The women’s playing was referred to as Kolattam. In Kolattam, the emphasis was on dance steps. Though rare, women’s groups do exist.