Vanishing Folk Art Traditions of Andhra Pradesh
- vidyarthee2021
- 13 minutes ago
- 2 min read
The cultural canvas of Andhra Pradesh is richly adorned with vibrant folk art forms rooted in community life, spirituality, and storytelling. Yet, several of these age-old traditions—once vital to the social and ritual fabric—are now fading due to lack of institutional support, modern entertainment preferences, and shrinking audiences.
Key Folk Art Forms of Andhra Pradesh
Tholu Bommalata
Meaning "leather puppet dance," it is an ancient shadow puppetry tradition tracing back to the 3rd century CE.
It narrates Hindu epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata using painted leather puppets, music, and acrobatics.
Traditionally performed by nomadic communities across villages.
Jamukula Pata
A vocal folk performance primarily by marginalized communities.
It features one main singer (Patakudu) and two supporting chorus artists, conveying tales of rural life and social issues.
Tappeta Gullu
A devotional dance form by the shepherd community, dedicated to the Rain God and Goddess Gangamma.
Artists perform with ankle bells and chest-tied drums, producing a rhythmic and dynamic spiritual performance.
Puli Veshalu
Popular in Vizianagaram, artists paint themselves as tigers and mimic tiger movements in synchronized group dances.
It is often performed during local festivals and processions.
Challenges to Survival
Decline in Patronage: With modern forms of entertainment dominating rural life, traditional art forms are losing relevance.
Lack of Documentation & Institutional Support: Many forms remain unrecorded and unsupported by state-level art councils.
Urban Migration: Younger generations are opting for alternate livelihoods.
UPSC-Relevant Points
These folk arts reflect intangible cultural heritage (as recognized by UNESCO).
Preservation is aligned with Article 29 (Protection of Interests of Minorities) and Directive Principles under Article 49 (protection of monuments and heritage).
Important for GS Paper I – Indian Culture and Prelims Art & Culture section.
UPSC Prelims Question
Which of the following pairs are correctly matched regarding folk art forms and their features?
Tholu Bommalata – Shadow puppetry depicting epics
Tappeta Gullu – Dance performed with ankle bells and chest drums
Jamukula Pata – Acrobatic tiger dance performed during festivals
Select the correct answer using the code below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct – Tholu Bommalata is traditional shadow puppetry of Andhra Pradesh.
Statement 2 is correct – Tappeta Gullu involves dance and rhythm through drums and ankle bells.
Statement 3 is incorrect – Jamukula Pata is a musical storytelling performance, not a tiger dance (that is Puli Veshalu).
UPSC Mains Question
"India’s folk art traditions are rapidly disappearing due to socio-economic changes. Examine the challenges in preserving such cultural expressions with reference to folk arts of Andhra Pradesh." (GS Paper I)
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