Pulikali or Tiger Dance In Kerala

Puli Kali, or the Tiger Dance, is a vibrant folk art from Kerala, India. This lively performance is a highlight of the Onam festival, an annual celebration of the harvest that takes place primarily in Kerala. On the fourth day of the Onam festivities, known as Naalaam Onam or Chathayam, artists, adorned in striking tiger and leopard costumes painted in vivid shades of yellow, red, and black, engage in energetic dances. They sway their bodies to the rhythmic beats of traditional instruments like the Chenda and Chengila.

The term “Pulikkali” translates to “Tiger Dance,” and the performances typically revolve around themes of tiger hunting, reflecting local culture and folklore. Thrissur district is particularly renowned for this art form, and the best place to witness it is in Thrissur on the fourth day of Onam, where various troupes gather to showcase their talents. The event draws thousands of spectators to the city, and Pulikkali is also celebrated during other festive occasions throughout the year.