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Tamil Nadu :
As in other states of South India, Kummi, Kolattam and Terakuthu are the usual common folk dances in Tamil Nadu. Though Kummi is supposed to be born in Kerala, some experts are of the opinion that it is a branch of Bharata Natyam. In this, the danseuses standing in a circle
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sing, clap hands, bend forward and back, move front and back and dance gracefully. This type of Kummi is prevalent in many villages of Tamil Nadu. Though at the outset this dance may look simple, the body movements are comparatively difficult and hence the performers usually possess slim, graceful bodies and the dance gives aesthetic pleasure to the spectators.
Similarly village stalwarts perform 'Kolattam'. They hold in their hands two sticks, stand in circles and beating one another's sticks, they dance powerfully to the music and the drum beats of the central singer. In the month of 'Kartik', during the religious festival in Tiruchirapalli, some groups perform dances depicting the episodes of Lord Shiva and Kamadev. At the beginning of the festival, they burn a pile of wood suggesting the
'Kamadahan' or burning of Kamadev. After this, the festival of lights surrounding the house is celebrated. Then for 15 days they perform dance-dramas.
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