Witnessing the Spirit of Tulunadu:
My Journey into Kola and Daivaradane

For the past two seasons, I’ve had the privilege of attending Kola rituals, a spiritual spectacle unique to Tulunadu. Among the many traditions I’ve experienced in this culturally rich land, Kola—or Daivaradane, the ritual of spirit worship—has stood out not just for its vibrant visuals but for its soul-stirring energy. Unlike any festival or performance I’ve known, Kola is a living bridge between the divine and the human—a powerful conversation with the Daivas (spirit deities) that has been part of Tulunadu for generations.

From Janmashtami to Kola: A Story of Serendipity

My deeper connection with this ritual began last Janmashtami, when I had the chance to photograph a group of tiger dancers (Pilivesha artists)—members of a community that also performs Kola. One of my reels featuring their dance went viral, and to my surprise, they reached out with immense gratitude and invited me to photograph their next big event: a Kola ceremony.

That invite turned into an unforgettable journey. I wasn’t just an observer—I was welcomed into their world, standing beside them from dusk till dawn, witnessing every sacred moment. As a photographer, I usually find myself chasing the perfect shot, but that night was different. At many moments, I forgot I had a camera in my hand. I was completely immersed in the performance, the atmosphere, and the intensity of the divine presence.

The Ritual Behind the Ritual: Sacred Preparations

Kola isn’t just a show—it’s a spiritual offering. I arrived early and was lucky enough to witness the entire preparation process, something that few get to see. It began with a pooja for the gods’ materials—the sacred ornaments, weapons, and costumes that would soon transform ordinary men into divine messengers.

As I watched, the performers sat quietly in a small tent, painting their faces with meticulous detail. Every stroke was meaningful, every color symbolic. What fascinated me most was that they painted themselves—no makeup artists, no stylists, just age-old tradition and devotion. I clicked photo after photo, but often found myself lowering the camera, simply watching in awe.

Nature as Costume, Divinity as Presence

Then came the moment when they began to wear the Kola attire. What stood out was their complete reliance on natural materials. From leaves to bark, flowers to soil—not a single artificial element was used. It was as if nature itself dressed them for their divine act. This connection to the earth, to roots and tradition, made the transformation even more powerful.

The Descent of the Divine

Once fully adorned, the transformation was not just physical—it was spiritual. The performer who just moments ago was silently praying became something else entirely. With every beat of the chenda, every note of the traditional instrument, the energy shifted.

The Daiva begins to descend.

The performer steps into the sacred arena, often surrounded by fire, oil lamps, and an expectant crowd. The movements begin slowly—controlled, deliberate, symbolic. As the performance intensifies, so does the presence. It is said that during this phase, the human body becomes a vessel for the Daiva, and what follows is no longer just art—it is divine manifestation.

The Daiva speaks.

In trance, the performer delivers messages to the community—sometimes blessings, sometimes warnings. People approach with folded hands, asking questions, seeking guidance. The atmosphere is electric. Some weep, some stand stunned in silence, others break into chants of devotion. I saw faces lit by firelight and faith, and felt a current of energy ripple through the air.

The Kola continues late into the night, with rituals, dance, oracles, and the final act of farewell—where the Daiva returns, and the human regains his form. The journey ends, but its spiritual resonance remains long after the ritual is over.

A Memory Etched in Time

The experience has stayed with me long after the night ended. I’ve always believed that some stories are better told through images—and this blog will include some of the most powerful frames I captured that night. But even then, no photo can truly capture the energy, divinity, and cultural depth of Kola.

Kola isn’t just a ritual—it’s a celebration of Tulunadu’s spiritual heritage, a reminder of how deeply tradition and belief are woven into the people’s lives. I’m endlessly grateful to the community who welcomed me in, and to the Daiva who, perhaps unknowingly, left a mark on my soul.

If you ever get the chance to witness a Kola, don’t go for the photos. Go for the feeling. Go for the energy. Go for the divine connection that words—and even pictures—can barely describe.