Simha Nrutya (Lion Dance) is a popular dance form in Uttara Kannada District of Karnataka. It is usually performed by the Yakshagana artists.
The dancers replicate the movement of a lion. Costumes made of bark and yarn using natural dyes and a mask made of cotton resembling lion is worn. Two silver pangs are also inserted in the mouth to get a complete look of the fangs of lion.
It is mainly performed during the Yakshagana play, spreading the message of wildlife protection and the dangers of deforestation.
