Oppana Dance- Kerala

Oppana Dance is a traditional dance form of the Muslims in Kerala where men and women equally participate. It is an essential ritual of the Malabar Muslims and takes place during their wedding. In this dance young girls sing and dance in circle around the bride while applying her makeup while men sing songs to receive the bridegroom. The songs of Mappilappattu are sung by the leader and then repeated in chorus.

Often addressed to the bridegroom regarding their nuptial bliss, these dances and songs are a way to tease the bride and add some more fun and laughter to make the event of wedding special. Girls and maidens sing this song by clapping their hands and it is generally associated with the wedding festivities. The bride dressed in all finery, covered with gold ornaments is the chief spectator who sits on a peetam, around which the singing and dancing take place.

Oppana presented by males usually takes place just before the bridegroom leaves for the bride's residence where the Nikkaah (marriage) takes place or at the time he enters the Maniyara. Harmonium, Thabala, Ganjira and Elathaalam are the musical instruments employed for this performance.