Perini Shivatandavam is an ancient dance form, from Telengana, which has been revived in recent times. It originated and prospered in Telangana, during the Kakatiya Dynasty. Perini is performed in honour of Lord Shiva, the hindu god of destruction and it is believed that in ancient times this was performed before the soldiers set to war. 

The Perini Thandavam is a dance form usually performed by males.It is believed that this dance form invokes 'Prerana' (inspiration) and is dedicated to supreme dancer, Lord Shiva, one can find evidence of this dance in the sculptures near Garbha Gudi (Sanctum Sanctorum) of the Ramappa Temple at Warangal.

Perini is a vigorous dance done to the resounding beats of drums. Dancers drive themselves to a state of mental abstraction where they feel the power of Siva in their body. While dancing they invoke Siva to come into him and dance through him. The Perini Thandavam is indeed believed to be the most invigorating and intoxicating male dance form.