Villu Pattu, which literally means ‘Bow Song’, is an ancient form of musical - story - telling art, typical to southern
Tamil Nadu. It is a form of recitation, the main instrument used is a bow-shaped musical instrument called Villu (Bow), developed in the 15th century.
The main singer narrated stories from Puranas, including Ramayana and Mahabharata, in this ballad style song. He is accompanied by a chorus. The Villu is struck rhythmically by two sticks which produces a jingling effect.
