Kummi is usually performed by a group of Tamil women in a circle. This folk dance however assumes different forms. In some places, it is very simple, with rhythmic clapping while in other places the group of dancers imitate various harvesting activities.
In the simple Kummi dance, the women stand in a circle and dance clapping their hands rhythmically. The dance steps are also repetitive; they hold hands, move forward, bend down and clap their hands. One of the women leads the singing with a favourite song while the rest take up the dance. Each performer sings a new line in turn and the dance stops when all get tired. Facial expressions play an important role in Kummi dance.
