Huli Vesha (Tiger Dance) is a unique form of folk dance prevalent in
Dakshina Kannada District of
Karnataka. This colorful performance attracts the young and the old alike. Since tiger is considered as the favored carrier of Goddess Sharada, the deity in whose honor
Dussehra is celebrated, the dance is widely performed during the Dussehra celebration. Huli Vesha is also conducted during other festivals such as
Janmashtami.
In Huli Vesha the performers apply several layers of paints on their body which resembles tigers and dance to the beat of drums. A typical dance troupe comprises 7-15 members.
The formal dance starts with a Ganesh Puja following the Navratri. Huli Vesha holds an important place throughout the Dussehra procession.
