GARAGALU
 Garagalu
is a powerful dance performed by around twelve to sixteen artists usually during the
jataras (fairs) of the gramadevathas (goddess of the village) like Nookambika, Maridamma
and Pallamma in East and West Godavari districts.
The artist dances to the tune of music and
the beat of two dappus with "Garagas" placed on their heads. "Garaga"
is a brass pot decorated with pasupu & kumkum (turmeric & vermilion)
with a colorful cloth wrapped around it. This forms the base for a lingam and a
five-hooded serpent, shesha saivam that covers the lingam as an umbrella. Costumes
comprise of a pajama, usually in yellow or red, a kurta with folds at the
bottom, a datti tied to the waist and a head turban. The gestures made by the
artists while dancing fill the devotees with enthusiasm during the observation of rituals. |
