The word Talamaddale is derived from the word ‘tala’ (Cymbal) and Maddale (the drum).
Tala-Maddale is an ancient form of dance practiced in Southern India in the coastal Malnad regions of Karnataka and Kerala. It is a variation of Yakshgana Theatre.
To put it simply, Talamaddale is a Yakshagana minus dance,,costume and stage conventions. It has features which are a combination of puranapravachana (discourse), harikatha and Yakshagana.
It is not a ‘Troupe’ art or nor a ‘professionalized art’. It is a ‘freelance’ or ‘hobby’ art. Talamaddale performances are usually incorporated into various social, religious or secular functions.
Talamaddale has three levels of ‘Text’.
The Prasanga Text
The Musical Text
The Verbal Text
