During the first ten days of Muharram, the Lathi players demonstrate their art in the courtyards of houses, at cross sections of roads and finally at the mock Karbala ground. A lathi used in the Lathi dance is basically of a 6 to 8 foot long bamboo stick sometimes tipped with a metal blunt and it is used like a sword by swinging it back and forth like a sword.
Mainly, drums and brass cymbals are used to maintain the rhythm and tempo of the dance. The youths wear close-fitting garments while performing this dance and also at times tie strings of bells round their ankles. Sometimes, they hold bamboo sticks, which are about four or five feet long. Along with it, they also carry swords, daggers and cymbals. The role of the drummer is very important in this dance performance, as he guides the moves, tempo and rhythm of the dancers. The dance is actually divided into several sections like an introduction, different warlike stances, the fight, resolution and rest. The tempo of the dance is slow at initial stages but picks up and ends on a crescendo.
With sticks and big swords in their hands, the youths demonstrate their valour by way of a mock battle. The dancers skillfully whirl their sticks, moving them to the front or to the sides, then under their legs or over their heads in time to the music. The fierce clashes of the sticks produce a feel of battle scene.
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(Last Updated on : 18/11/2010)
