Puli Kalli is usually performed by small groups of young people
during Onam. Four or more youngsters use oil-based paints to
cover their bodies in yellow and black stripes. Paint, makeup and
appropriate costumes transform the dancers into fierce tigers.
The
group moves from house to house, street to street dancing
vigorously to the accompaniment of loud, lively music. The air is
filled with excitement and fun as children and other people join
in the dancing. Needless to say, everyone enjoys the Puli Kalli.
After it is over though, it takes many hours and many more liters
of kerosene to remove the paint from the bodies of the 'Puli'
dancers.
