Butta Bommalu is type of Folk dance that became popular in Tanuku district of Andra Pradesh. In the West Godavari district, Tanuku is a popular place in Andra Pradesh. It derives its name from Tarakasena who had been the ruler of this place. He had been a demon king.
About the place of Origin of the Butta Bommalu Dance:
West Godavari District is an important town famous for the migratory birds. The famous Kolleru Lake is located here. Later Tanaku lies in the western side of the River Godavari that flows through the breast of Andra Pradesh, a life giving river to the state.
Folk dance signifies some of the abundant dances of European origin and they gained popularity in the 19th century. Since they are mainly imitated from the western culture, modifications were made to impart an Indian flavor to these dances. The prominent feature of the folk dances like Butta Bommalu is that this dance is never restricted to the aristocratic people.
But the ordinary people also got chance for self expression through this form of dance drama.
During social events these folk dances were generally performed and Butta Bommalu is one of them. Actually abundant professional training is not required for this dance drama and no competition is involved in this dance drama.
The Butta Bommalu Dance literally means basket toys made of wood husks, dry grass and also cow dung. The dancers are required to wear masks and over their heads and shoulders. Constant rhythmic body movements make the Butta Bommalu Dance an invigorating spectacle.
