Dance of the Tigers – Pulikali

Pulikali is a famous art form performed during the Onam festival in Kerala. Pulikali means ‘play of the tigers’, and is performed to enact a tiger-hunting scene. Young and old men paint their bodies to resemble tigers and wear tiger masks to entertain people. They are accompanied by a drummer and a hunter. Towards the end of the scene the hunter ‘kills’ a tiger with his bow and arrow.

Historical data suggests that Pulikali had its origins in the Ramzan season in Kerala. The then king introduced this folk art form for their celebrations. The difference then was that there were no masks. Faces were painted to resemble tigers.

The Swaraj Ground at Thrissur is the place if you wanna watch a Pulikali performance. At the end of Onam hordes of people gather here to watch performances by various Pulikali groups from all over Kerala. This year, it will take place today. Around 11 teams with an average of 35 people each will perform at the grounds, accompanied by different tableaux.