Pulikali

What is Pulikali?

Pulikali is a lively folk performance from Kerala, India, that translates to 'dance of the tiger'. Participants cover their skin in bright yellow, red, and black paint to mimic felines. They shake their bellies and perform steps that imitate tigers and leopards. The art form centers on the theme of tiger hunting and is primarily performed by men and children.

Where does Pulikali come from?

The tradition began over two hundred years ago under Maharaja Rama Varma Sakthan Thampuran of Cochin. He introduced the art, originally called Pulikkettikali, which locals enjoyed immensely. The modern celebration in Thrissur honors this historical introduction. A coordination committee formed in 2004 now helps preserve and promote the practice across the district.

How is Pulikali danced?

Dancers move in processions through city streets, bouncing and shaking their painted bellies to rhythmic drum beats. They enact scenes of tigers preying on animals or being hunted by game-hunters. Groups assemble at specific locations to offer coconuts before continuing their route. The movement is energetic, involving whole-body participation and street-level engagement with spectators.

The music of Pulikali

The performance is driven by the percussive sounds of chenda drums and chengila cymbals. These instruments provide the steady beat that guides the dancers' movements. The music accompanies the entire procession, creating a loud and festive atmosphere as troupes travel through the urban landscape.

Costume and what is carried

Performers undergo a meticulous painting process lasting several hours, using tempera powder and varnish. Historically, dancers were fully painted without masks, but modern participants wear ready-made masks, cosmetic teeth, and facial hair. A broad belt with jingles is worn around the waist. The visual effect relies heavily on the vibrant body paint and elaborate facial accessories.

When and where Pulikali is danced

The dance takes place on the fourth day of Onam, an annual harvest festival in Kerala. It is most prominent in Thrissur, where troupes gather for a major public display. Thousands of spectators line the streets to watch the procession. The event has evolved into a strong community activity supported by local sponsors and municipal grants.

Styles of Pulikali

Early versions involved full-body painting without masks, whereas contemporary performances utilize manufactured masks and props. Women have recently begun participating in teams alongside men and children. Virtual performances emerged during lockdown periods, allowing dispersed participants to join via live streams while maintaining the traditional format.

What Pulikali means

Pulikali serves as a significant cultural marker for Kerala's heritage and identity. It attracts robust local youth participation and sponsor support, reflecting its status as a popular community event. The Thrissur Municipal Corporation provides financial grants to troupes, ensuring the continuity of this folk art form within the region.

Days Pulikali is danced for

Questions people ask about Pulikali

Good reading and sources

• Pulikkali to go online this OnamThe Hindu, Article

• Pulikali on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos and video on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data
• Videos of Pulikali on YouTubeSearch results, not chosen by Ghungroo