Veethi Bhagavata, a traditional dance-drama of
Andhra Pradesh, has its origin in the Kuchipudi tradition. It is performed during temple festivals, on marriage occasions and other festivities in the houses of rich people. The cast includes Vidhushaka (the jester) and a female dancer who is supported by secondary female artistes. The chief woman acts as a milkmaid (Golla) and keeps on arguing with the
Brahmin (Vidhushaka), which is called as Kalapam. She questions his real Brahminhood and explains what a real Brahmin is like according to the Sastras. The songs have the classic ragas of the
carnatic music, accompanied by the mridangam.
