Ranmale is a folk dance form mainly performed in Western India, in the Sattari Taluka of North and Sanguem Taluka of South Goa Districts. The Ranmale dance is based on the mythological stories from Ramayana and Mahabharata, the popular Indian Epics.
The word Ranmale is derived from two words “Ran” meaning “Battle or War” and Male representing the traditional “Torch” which is used as a source of light during the dance performance. It is believed that a group of visiting artists, peeved by the demands of the local settlers, killed them while they were watching the performance. Since this incident, the Ranmale dance is performed as an act of atonement for the act.
Dance Form
Ranmale dance form comprises of Dance, Drama and Folk Songs called Jats. Participants of the dance form enter the stage in tune to the Folk Songs. Ghumat, a traditional instrument is used in the performance. Kansale, Cymbals etc. are used as accompaniment and for the base rhythm. The Sutradhar initiates the Jats and the artists stand in a row on the stage. They act like a backdrop.
