Karnataka has shared the general musical
culture of peninsular India from the earliest times. South Indian music
is generally known as 'Karnatic music' because of its common features.
Each region of the south has its own culture. Karnataka's music is known
as Sopanam. Sangeetam (Music) appears to have acquired its name from the
'Sopanam' which means 'Sanctum Sanctorum' of the temple. Its essential
features were born out of a happy blending of the Vedic, the folk and
tribal music of the region. Traditional folk dances are of great variety.
One of the most charming is the Kummi, where the rhythm of the song and
steps begins in slow beats and gets exciting acceleration as well as complication.
