Bhutha Performance is a ritualistic dance form practiced in the
Dakshina Kannada District of
Karnataka. The term ‘Bhutha’ means a divine spirit which deserves periodic propitiation.
Bhutha Performance comes with different types of folk music; an impersonator adorned with heavy anklet called 'gaggara' and in his hand 'chaury' (Yak tail fan), dance to the tune of musician. He is usually seen in either a metal mask or areca-leaf mask. The make-up is quite impressive and the dress is made out of simple tender coconut leaves. The main accompanying musical instruments include 'mouri' (wind pipe) 'taase' (percussion) and 'shruti' (wind pipe).
It is believed that Bhutha or divine spirits have their own myths or epics sung during the performance. Some of the Bhutha songs or epics are sung in the paddy plantation field by the women folk. These songs are known as 'paaddana' and are rendered in Tulu language. During the Bhutha performance women render the songs with a small percussion instrument called 'tembere' or 'karande'.
Bhutha Performance enormously varies from village to village according to the social structure of the society. The ritual dance is very artistic and attracts every spectator.
