Kamsale (Kannada: ಕಂಸಾಳೆ ನೃತ್ಯ), is a unique folk art performed by the devotees of God Mahadeshwara.
Instrument and group
Kamsale is a
rhythm instrument. These instruments are played in pairs. Its size is about a man's palm. They are throated at the centre. One which is in shape is held in one hand, very closely; (usually the left hand). The other one is held at length. (usually in the right hand). The artists in the Kamsale group vary from three to eight. If the Kamsale is accompanied by
songs, the number of artists will be from 8 to 12.
Background
"Kamsale", popularly known as "Devaraguddas", belongs to the
Halumatha (
Kuruba Gowda) community who are disciples of Lord
Mahadeshwara. Kamsale Mela is a popular folk song which deals with the history of '
Mahadeshwara' (worshipping deity) of
Mahadeshwara hills, a renowned pilgrim centre, situated in
Chamarajanagar district
Literature
Kamsale artists have no printed literature. They learn those songs orally. They participate in fairs, which are held in Mahadeshwara hills during
Diwali,
Shivaratri and
Ugadi festivals.
Kuruba People
Kamsale is closely connected with a tradition of
Shiva worship. The artistes, drawn from Haalumatha
Kuruba Gowda community. Who have vowed to live a life of devotion to
Mahadeshwara are supposed to perform kamsale. The dance is a part of a 'diiksha' or
oath and is taught by
teacher or
spirituality leader. Kamsale Mahadevaiah of Mysore was a famous artist. He trained students at university level. In cultural exchange programme of India, he toured many countries and performed.
Dress and dance
The singing artists wear a special dress. The artists, with the Kamsale in the left hand, expose it to be hit by the Kamsale held in the right
hand. Thus
rhythm is created of various patterns and tempos. Beesu Kamsale or Kamsale dance is a unique dance form in which
religious fervour combines with
martial dexterity. The instruments, in the course of the vigorous rhythmic beatings are moved around the
Human body of the dancer in innumerable patterns manifesting both
skill and art. The main element in art is the rhythmic clang, which blends with the melodious
music of the
Mahadeshwara epic. In a group movement the
dancer provides the vision of a series of and
self-defense manoeuvers, which is a testimony to the
Kuruba people being of Martial stock.
Spread
The Kamsale dancers are found in the
Kannada,
Mysore,
Channapatna,
Mandya,
Ramanagara,
Kanakapura,
Kollegal,
Bangalore and
Chamarajanagar region.
External links
