Perini Shivathandavam
This dance form originated during the rule of Kakatiya Dynasty and is performed by men. It is called the dance of warriors as it was performed in front of Lord Shiva’s idol to seek his blessings before going for war. It is aggressive and the dancers enter a state of trance similar to Shivathandavam. This dance form was on the verge of extinction after the fall of Kakatiya Dynasty but was revived by late Dr Nataraja Ramakrishna.
Burra Katha
This folk art form of storytelling is central to both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. It is called tamburakatha and saradakatha here in Telangana. It is named after instrument called, burra, also called tambura. These artistes belong to pichuguntla and jangalu castes and they move around villages narrating folktales. Story tellers are generally three in number – one main performer and two side kicks. The songs have catchy tunes. While most of them narrate mythological stories, a few are based on social themes.
Oggu Katha
This is also a storytelling art form where the artistes belong to kuruma and golla communities. Their stories are praises of their community gods Mallanna, Beerappa and Yallamma. These artistes become the characters and move from place to place narrating stories of their gods.
Mathuri Dance
This is a special dance form performed by the people of Koppu Lambada community in Adilabad. The community gets its name from their unique head gear, as koppu in Telugu means the way a woman ties her hair. This dance is generally performed during weddings and other special occasions, by both men and women. While the men’s movements are quick, women’s are slow and steady.
Dappu dance
This dance form is central to Telangana. It originated from Nizamabad where performers, usually a group of 16 to 20 dance to the rhythm they create using dappu made of goatskin. They also wear ankle bells. The sound of the dappu syncs with the movement of their feet and hence the sound of their ankle bells.
Marfa
This is common among the Siddis in Hyderabad, an ethnic group of African descent. It is popular in the city and is often played while welcoming someone. It is played in a high tempo on a daf, which translates to a large framed drum using wooden sticks.