<P> Karagattam or Karagam is a folk dance of Tamil country performed by villagers perform in praise of the rain goddess Mari Amman . The performers balance a water pot on their head very beautifully . Traditionally, this dance is performed in two types - Aatta Karagam is danced with decorated pots on the head and symbolises joy and happiness, while the Sakthi Karagam is performed only in temples and is mainly danced for entertainment . Earlier it was performed only with the accompaniment of the Naiyandi Melam, but now it also includes songs . Most expert artistes are from the regions of Thanjavur, Pudukottai, Ramanathapuram, Madurai, Tirunelveli, and Pattukottai and Salem . </P> <P> This is done by girls dressed as peacocks, resplendent with peacock feathers and a glittering head - dress complete with a beak . This beak can be opened and closed with the help of a thread tied to it, and manipulated from within dress . Other similar dances are, Kaalai Attam (dressed as a bull), Karadi Attam (dressed as a bear) and Aali Aattam (dressed as a demon) which are performed in the villages during village get - togethers . Vedala Aattam is performed wearing a mask depicting demons . </P> <P> The Paambhu attam or snake - dance arises from the popularity of the snake as a protective divinity, safeguarding the health and happiness of the rural folk . Usually danced by young girls dressed in a tight - fighting costume designed like the snake - skin . The dancer simulates the movements of the snake, writhing and creeping, at times making quick biting movements with head and hands . The raised hands held together look like the hood of a snake . </P> <P> Meaning Dance of Grace, was traditionally a dance where a few men would stand in a row and perform rhythmic steps to the musical accompaniment, with the number of dancers increasing; over the past ten years women have also started performing this dance . Typically, the musical accompaniment is the Thavil and the performers have coloured handkerchiefs tied to their fingers (3) and wear ankle bells . </P>

Bharatnatyam is a folk dance of which state