Oppana is a popular form of social entertainment of the Muslim community of
Kerala. The name Oppana is derived from the Arabic word 'Afna.' Generally presented by females, it is a dance form mostly performed on wedding days. In Oppana, the bride dressed in all finery is the central character who sits on a peetam around which the performers clap their hands rhythmically and move in a circle using simple steps.
Oppana is also presented by males to entertain the bridegroom. It is usually conducted just before the bridegroom leaves for the bride's residence after the marriage or at the time they enter the Maniyara. It is performed to the accompaniment of
Harmonium, thabala, ganjira, elathaalam and mappilapaattu. Oppana chayal and Oppana murukkam are the two types of Oppana.
