Aug 23 2025 to Aug 23 2025 11 a.m.

Where

Bangalore International Centre

7 4th Main Rd, Stage 2, Domlur 560071

Event Description

Pooja Kunita, the ritual folk dance of Mandya, blends spirituality, storytelling, music, and acrobatic artistry into a vibrant act of devotion. Presented by Sri Vinayaka Yuvakara Kala Balaga and led by K.B. Swamy, this 60-minute interactive program unfolds as an immersive journey through the traditions, symbols, and sounds of this living heritage.

Guided by a Sutradar, the experience begins with an introduction to Pooja Kunita’s history and cultural significance, before artists perform a small pooja to the Goddess and demonstrate the intricate decoration of the sacred prayer frame. The ceremonial invocation follows, revealing the chants, gestures, and symbolic rituals that open every performance. Audiences will explore the distinctive soundscape of traditional instruments like the Tamte, Nagarai, and Tarsi, and be invited to learn foundational dance steps (Hejjes) alongside the artists. The program builds with a demonstration of the acrobatic grace at the heart of Pooja Kunita, offering insight into how athletic skill and spiritual intent intertwine. The evening culminates in a full, high-energy performance that weaves together frame decoration, invocation, music, hejjes, and acrobatics—offering a complete, living portrait of this devotional art form.

This is the fourth performance of our series BIC Jaanapada.

BIC Jaanapada is a bi-monthly (once in two months) series celebrating Karnataka’s folk traditions through the lens of regional identity and cultural preservation. Curated in collaboration with Tvarita Arts Collective India, the program combines scholarly discourse with live performances to explore the deep connections between geography and artistic expression. Through demonstrations, performances, and academic discussions, each session examines how landscape and local culture have shaped these distinct artistic practices.

Performers

Sri Vinayaka Yuvakara Kala Balaga
Troupe
Sri Vinayaka Yuvakara Kala Balaga, Mandya, led by the renowned folk artist K.B. Swamy, proudly promotes Karnataka’s rich traditional art forms such as Pooja Kunita, Dollu Kunita, Kolata, and Donne Varase. Trained by his esteemed mentors Tamate Borayya and Tubi Ninganna, K.B. Swamy has dedicated himself to preserving and teaching these art forms to the younger generation.

The group has showcased their vibrant performances across India, including prestigious events like Mysuru Dasara, Kodagu Utsava, Karnataka Rajyotsava, and the National Games. K.B. Swamy is especially celebrated for his extraordinary Pooja Kunita, where he carries 50 kilos during the Maramma and Kalaamma performances, executing impressive acrobatics with strength and grace.

His exceptional contributions to Karnataka’s folk arts have been honored by the Department of Kannada and Culture and several other organizations, recognizing his invaluable role in keeping these traditions alive.