Duffmuttu Dance- Kerala

DuffMuttu dance form is quite famous among the Muslims of Kasargod & Malappuram districts in the Malabar Region of Kerala. Duffmuttu is also known as Arvanmuttu. Its origin is traced back to the Arabs. The Muslims perform this dance praising the glory of the Creator in Arabic. The songs used in this dance form are mainly tributes to the famous martyrs, heroes and saints. The name of this dance is attributed to the use of an instrument called Duff or tap. Duff is a round percussion instrument with one side covered with hide and is used to produce rhythms.

While performing the dance the leader of the group sings and led while the others form the chorus and move in circle. There is no fixed time limit to the Duffmuttu dance, and it can be performed at any time of the day. The dance is staged as a social event during festivals and nuptial ceremonies. It is performed by only the male members of the community. Different Mosques and Madrasas have their own DuffMuttu troupes. Every year Kerala Government arranges DuffMuttu competitions in schools and other educational institutions to encourage this art form and ensure the interest of young generation in the art form.