‘Tiger Dance,’ the folk dance of Dakshina Kannada is popular among literate as well as illiterate. The Tulu culture has promoted the art with a purpose. The form of presentation as ‘pili’ in itself is a message because it is believed to be the favored vehicle of Goddess Sharada. This deity is worshiped and given at most importance at the time of Dussera. It draws special attention of everyone because the men in ‘Plili Vesha’ are a symbolic expression of power of carnivore. The skillful artist who plays the role of tiger is expected to kill a sheep. Therefore killing a sheep has become a ritual.
The folk dances always performed with the accompaniment of the sound of heavy drums which throws an invitation to the audience. The drum beat and the movement of the bodies of the actors synchronized in such a way it creates excitements among the onlookers. Besides all the heroic actions the design of painting on the bodies of the performers creates more curiosity in the audiences. The entertaining dances also project the dedication and skills of the artists. Since they are specialized in ‘Pilli vesha' they try to protect the painting by sleeping on the plantain leaf. Over the years the presentation of art has become very expensive.
In order to celebrate Dussera meaningfully the organizers have to invest money and energy especially on painting of the performers. The mythological characters may not be able to bring out the best in a traditional way but it will be able to create impact on the audience by their creativity.
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