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Silambu
EtymologyAccording to Jeyaraj, the word 'silambu' is derived from the verb 'silambal', meaning 'to make sound'.[1] DescriptionThe silambu is a hollow anklet filled with beads that produce noise when the wearer moves or dances.[2] It may be worn on the ankle or the leg. When worn on the leg, it is termed kālchilambu in Tamil.[3] Some varieties of silambu are made of copper and use iron balls to produce sound.[4] Others are made of silver.[5] ImportanceIn danceNautch performers wore silambu.[2] Kandyan dancers may wear silambu.[4] In art and literatureShiva in his dancing pose nataraja sometimes wears a silambu on his ankle.[citation needed]  The epic Silappatikaram is structured around the character Kannaki's attempt to sell her silambu, and takes its title from the name of the anklet.[6][7] In religion and ritualsSilambu are sometimes placed on cows' legs during the Pongal festival.[8] In Tamil Nadu, a traditional dance called kai silambu aatam is performed in temples during Amman festivals in which the dancers wear or hold silambus in their hands, which make noise when shaken.[citation needed] Silambu is also used in ritual dance performances of southern India, such as the Theyyam of Malabar region and the Buta Kola of Tulu Nadu region. See alsoNotes
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