Butta Bommalu is a popular dance form in the state of Andhra Pradesh. The name Butta Bommalu literally means puppets made in the form of basket. Butta Bommalu or the basket puppets are made out of thin bamboo strips. These strips are woven into the shape of long spherical basket figures.

Performance— the performer of Butta Bommalu gets into the huge, hollow figure, the puppet. The performance starts with the dancer moving to the rhythm of four dappus, a musical instrument. It is generally performed in the open space. The puppet-figure is about eight feet tall and it has a radius of three feet. The figure is hollow at the bottom it is from there that the performer gets into the puppet. The puppet is tied down to the performer’s waist and shoulders. And then the dance is been performed by the performers by carrying out that puppet.

Butla Bommalu Dance

Q1. What is Butla Bommalu Dance?

Butla Bommalu Dance is a traditional folk dance of Andhra Pradesh, known for its unique use of large, decorative masks made from cow dung, wood pulp, and natural materials. The dance is performed during festivals and village celebrations to entertain and convey cultural stories.

Q2. Which state does Butla Bommalu Dance belong to?

Butla Bommalu Dance belongs to Andhra Pradesh, especially popular in the coastal regions. It reflects the rural lifestyle, folk beliefs, and artistic creativity of the local communities.

Q3. Why is it called Butla Bommalu Dance?

The term “Butla Bommalu” means “basket dolls” or “big masks.” The dance gets its name from the oversized, colorful masks worn by performers, which resemble human faces or mythological characters.

Q4. On which occasions is Butla Bommalu Dance performed?

This dance is commonly performed during village festivals, temple celebrations, Sankranti, fairs, and cultural events. It is also showcased in folk festivals and cultural programs across India.

Q5. What makes Butla Bommalu Dance unique?

The most unique feature of Butla Bommalu Dance is the large hand-crafted masks and expressive body movements. The performers use rhythm, gestures, and folk music to create a lively and humorous performance.

Q6. What type of music is used in Butla Bommalu Dance?

Traditional folk instruments like dappu, drums, and wind instruments are used. The music is energetic and helps synchronize the dance movements with storytelling.

Q7. Who performs Butla Bommalu Dance?

Local folk artists and traditional dance troupes perform Butla Bommalu Dance. The art form is usually passed down through generations within rural communities.

Q8. Is Butla Bommalu Dance still popular today?

Yes, Butla Bommalu Dance is still popular and is actively promoted through cultural festivals, school programs, folk art shows, and tourism events to preserve Andhra Pradesh’s folk heritage.

Q9. Can Butla Bommalu Dance be performed at modern events?

Yes, today this dance is also performed at cultural nights, corporate events, exhibitions, weddings, and tourism promotions, making it suitable for both traditional and modern audiences.

Q10. Why is Butla Bommalu Dance important for Indian culture?

Butla Bommalu Dance helps preserve folk traditions, rural art forms, and storytelling practices. It represents the creativity, humor, and cultural identity of Andhra Pradesh’s village communities.