keelamisi

Keelamisi is a traditional singing style originating from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal. The islands have a rich cultural heritage, shaped by the indigenous communities that inhabit them, including the Jarawa and the Andamanese tribes. Keelamisi is an integral part of the Islands' music tradition and is often used during various ceremonies and celebrations.

The word 'keelamisi' is derived from the Ongota language, which is one of the languages spoken by the native inhabitants of the islands. The term 'keelamisi' can be roughly translated to 'fire songs' or'songs of fire', as these songs often accompany nightly bonfires lit by the community to maintain good fortune and protect against evil spirits.

Keelamisi singing style is characterized by powerful, rapid-fire delivery of rhythmic phrases, often forming a call-and-response pattern. The songs often contain lyrics that praise the community, ancestors, or important historical events. Keelamisi is usually performed by women and is often used to entertain or delight the people during social gatherings and important occasions.

Musicologists have noted that the emergence of keelamisi may be linked to the traditional animist system, as songs contain references to beings and spirits that were once considered central to their communities' spiritual beliefs. As the community became more Christianized in the early 20th century, the traditional animist practices began to dwindle, resulting in a reduction of keelamisi performances. However, the legacy of keelamisi endures as a manifestation of the islands' rich cultural heritage.