Helava Song is a traditional performance of the Helava tribes of
Karnataka. Stories about the community and its history form the major part of the songs. A big metallic bell accompanies the performance.
The metallic bell is a symbolic instrument of this tribe. It is transferred from one generation to another. Half a meter of cloth is tied on the handle of this bell. The cloth is held firmly on one hand by the artist and the bell is played rhythmically and judiciously with the other hand.
Two or three performers take part in the performance. The artists play the bell in regular succession throughout the long narration of the story.
