As election campaigns kick in, there’s a surge in demand for folk art performers such as Dollu Kunita dancers, Kamsale players, folk musical teams, Yakshagana artists, and others in Karnataka.
Political parties are using the skills of folk artists for rallies, roadshows, processions, and diverse campaign events. Especially in rural and semi-urban regions, where their appeal is highest, these artists are seizing the moment. They note a significant surge in demand during the election season, resulting in lucrative earnings.
Traditional tamate (percussion) is highly sought after for election campaigning in Bengaluru and nearby districts. Puttanna H., a traditional tamate artist from Tumakuru, said, “For the past few days, we’ve been receiving calls from different political party candidates to join them in their campaigns and also during nomination filing. We’ve been hired for work during this election in Bengaluru, Ramanagara, Bengaluru rural district, and Tumakuru.”
