Devarattam is a dance form exclusive to the descendants of Veerapandiya Kattabomman dynasty at Kondangipatti in Madurai District. Devarattam used to be performed in front of the chariot on the victorious return of the King and his army from the battlefield. It was performed once a year at temples confined to the community.
In these days, people dance to the beat of 'Urumi Melam,' 'Thappu Melam' or a long flute, without any songs. The dancers hold a piece of cloth in each hand and swing them as they dance. The person who leads the dance wears false beard and a mask decorated with shells that look like teeth. He dances the first step, repeated by others of the group.
