Kamsale
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A devotional dance of southern Karnataka in which devotees of Male Mahadeshwara swing and clash brass cymbals in rhythmic patterns while singing his praises.
DevotionalWhere: Mysuru, Chamarajanagar, Mandya and Bengaluru regionsOccasion: Festivals and pilgrimages to the Male Mahadeshwara hills, and community events
| Performed by | Men devoted to Male Mahadeshwara, in groups |
|---|---|
| Costume | White or coloured dhoti and shirt with a turban; holy ash on the forehead |
| Music and instruments | The kamsale itself: a pair made of a cymbal in one hand and a bronze disc in the other, with devotional songs |
How it is performed
- The dancers stand in a line or circle holding the kamsale.
- They clash the cymbals in a fixed rhythm while singing songs about Male Mahadeshwara.
- They swing the cymbals around the body, over the head and between the legs while stepping and turning.
- The patterns become faster and more complex towards the end of each song.
Significance
Kamsale is closely tied to the worship of Male Mahadeshwara, revered as a form of Shiva in the hills of Chamarajanagar district. It is learnt as a form of worship as much as a performance.