Duffmuttu

Understand

Where Duffmuttu comes from

Duffmuttu (also Dubhmuttu) is an art form prevalent in the Malabar region of Kerala and Karnataka, deriving its name from the duff — a percussion instrument of wood and ox-hide whose name is of Arabic origin and which is also called a thappitta in Malayalam. The form is performed as social entertainment and to commemorate festivals, uroos (festivals of mosques and dargahs) and weddings. It is closely related to Aravana Muttu (or Arabana Muttu), which uses the similar arabana drum. Duffmuttu songs are typically a tribute to Islamic heroes and martyrs, with the lead player leading the song while the others provide chorus.

How it's practiced

A Duffmuttu performance typically has ten members who stand or sit facing each other, singing songs and swaying their bodies to the tempo of the duff drum that the lead player sets. The dancers drum the duff with fingers or palms and while moving rhythmically often toss the drum over their heads in a flourish. The duff is placed between the dancers on the ground at the centre, and the dancers' feet move in perfect time in a to-and-fro motion. Duffmuttu can be performed at any time of day. Costume is the traditional Mappila dress — white or off-white kurta and mundu, with the white topi (skull-cap) for men.