Kummi (கும்மி) is a folk dance. It is popular in Tamil Nadu and Kerala in India, and it is also danced by Tamils of Sri Lanka, especially in North and East of Sri Lanka. Kummi is locally known (in Tamil) as Kummiyattam (கும்மியாட்டம்) which literally means Kummi dance. Kummi mostly performed by Tamil women in circle formation. When men join, they form the outer circle. Kummi has originated from the "kuravai", and kummi was a dance with clapping of hands and had originated at a time when instruments were not invented. It indicates the folk dance is very ancient and has natural and simple method in terms of dance, formation, rhythmic clapping, etc.
Kummi dance style may be different to regions. In some places, it is very simple, with rhythmic clapping. In other places dancers imitate various harvesting activities. Kummi often accompany by songs, called "Kummi songs". One village woman starts a popular song while others join in with singing and clapping to keep note of time. It is often danced during Hindu religious festivals and cultural events. Kummi songs became a popular addition to kuthiyottam festivities in modern times.
Several ancient Tamil literatures were recorded about kummi, and the literature era was between BC 300 to AD 300.
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