Perini Sivathandavam is an ancient dance form, from Telangana, which has been revived in recent times. It originated about 800 years ago and prospered in Telangana, during the Kakatiya dynasty. One can find evidence of this aggressive dance form in the sculptures near Garbha Gudi (Sanctum Sanctorum) of the Ramappa Temple at Warangal.
Features of Perini Dance Form
- It is a dance form usually performed by males.
- It is also known as the ‘Dance of Warriors’ because it was performed by the warriors in honour of Lord Shiva for enthusiasm before going to the battlefield.
- In ancient times, this was performed before the soldiers set to war.
- This dance is performed on the beat of the Dhol. During this, the dancers take themselves to a state of mental abstraction, where they feel the power of Shiva.
- While dancing they invoke Shiva to come into him and dance through him. The Perini Thandavam is indeed believed to be the most invigorating and intoxicating male dance form.
- Perini’s dance form reached its pinnacle during the rule of the ‘Kakatiyas’ who established their dynasty at Warangal and ruled for almost two centuries.
- During the collapse of the Kakatiya monarchy, the Perini dance form nearly vanished, but Padmasri Dr. Nataraja Ramakrishna brought it back to life when it was on the point of extinction.
The dance finds mention in the early medieval work Bharataarnavam by Nandikeshwara
Present status
The people of Telangana state have a great deal of faith in and respect for this dance style, and they are working hard to preserve it. There are various situations where this dance style is performed, and spectators appreciate watching males perform it.
This dance style is also taught in a number of locations so that the next generation can learn it, preserve it for centuries to come, and let the rest of the world know that such a dance style exists and how it is performed.
