Oppana

Oppana is a traditional and an entertainment dance, part of the wedding celebrations of the Mappila (Muslim) community in the Malabar region of Kerala. Colourful costumes and rhythmic steps are the features of this dance, mostly performed by women.

The bride, dressed in the traditional colourful attire with golden brocade, would be seated in the middle of the dancers. The dancers are maidens and young female relatives of the bride. They sing and dance around the bride, clapping their hands and teasing her about the nuptial bliss.

The songs are taken from Mappilappattu, a genre of songs based on Muslim folklore. The songs are first sung by the leader and are repeated by the chorus. Harmonium, Tambourine, Ilathalam (cymbals) and Tabla are the instrumental accompaniments.