About Art form of Karnataka Goravara Kunitha

One of the ancient art forms of Karnataka, practised by those following the unique Shiva Cult, is Mailara Linga, also known as Goravara Kunitha. With strong religious implications, Goravara Kunitha is carried across generations by male artistes from the Kuruba community. The selected team of men from the Kuruba community receives Deeksha from their Guru to practice performing the art.

The session of Giving Deeksha is a very sanctimonious ritual held in front of the Mailara Linga idol. Following Deeksha, the person who is going to dedicate the rest of his life to God is presented with a wooden stick, a bowl of ashes, a small Damaru, and other items that qualify him to be a member of the Gorava Sect.

When and How is Goravara Kunitha Performed?

Normally, Goravara Kunitha is performed during festivals and fairs, especially during the religious functions of temples housing Mailara Linga. Devotees who worship Mailara Linga invite the team to perform Gorvara Kunitha at their homes during housewarming ceremonies and other functions. With a black woollen blanket spread on the floor, the Goravas dance according to the rhythm of the damaru and their own anklet, with songs glorifying Lord Mailara Linga.

The costumes Goravas uses are so unique. A headgear made with bearskin, covered with a woollen Rumala, is the identity of these artistes. A yellow panache and full-length Juba is the usual attire. A flute in the left hand, a wooden stick in the right hand, forehead smeared with Ashes(Vibhuthi, Prasad you usually get in any Shiva temple) and a scary look with black and white circles around the ears gives a completed look to Goravas, who are all set to dance for musical rhythms and intoxicating beats of Damaru.

Historical and Mythological Background

Goravara Kunitha is closely connected to Mailara Linga’s worship. Mailara Linga is Lord Shiva’s fierce manifestation, sacred across Karnataka, particularly in North Karnataka. According to the local story, Mailara Linga came to Earth to kill the demon Mallasura to restore cosmic balance. As devoted followers, the Goravas embody this fierce, protective energy through their dance. 

Historically, the Kuruba community has kept this tradition alive, regarding Mailara Linga as their primary deity. Apart from being a cultural expression, Gorava Kunitha is a sacred vow and has been passed down from one generation to another. Through Deeksha, the initiate dedicates himself to divine service and renounces worldly attachments. It ensures that the spiritual connection remains unbroken.  

Cultural Significance and Symbolism

Apart from its visual intensity, Goravara Kunitha carries sound spiritual symbolism. Each element of Gorava’s performance and attire reflects ascetic discipline and devotion. The ash (Vibhuthi) applied to the forehead signifies unquestioning faith in Lord Shiva and detachment from material life.   

The Damaru symbolises the cosmic rhythm of creation and destruction, which is central to Shaivite philosophy. The simple attire and black woollen blanket reflect renunciation and humility. On the other hand, the distinctive headgear is their deity’s fierce power. Villagers regard Goravas as spiritual intermediaries. The intermediaries are believed to have divine insights and could bless devotees with protection and prosperity. So, Goravara Kunitha is not only a folk dance, it is a living ritual that binds identity, faith, and community tradition into a single expression of devotion.