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List of Indian Folk Dances

Indian folk and tribal dances are simple dances, and are performed to express their moods. Folk and tribal dances are performed for every possible occasion, to celebrate the arrival of seasons, birth of a child, a wedding and festivals. The dances are extremely simple with minimum of steps or movement. The dances burst with verve and vitality. Men and women perform some dances exclusively, while in some performances men and women dance together. On most occasions, the dancers sing themselves, while being accompanied by artists on the instruments. Each form of dance has a specific costume. Most costumes are flamboyant with extensive jewels. While there are numerous ancient folk and tribal dances, many are constantly being improved. The skill and the imagination of the dances influence the performance.

List of Folk and Tribal Dances sorted by State.

Given Name [alias]Region(s)appx. Period of OrginationOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Burrakatha [Jangam Katha]Coastal Region, Rayalaseema, Telanganafirst half of 20th centuryRegional FestivalsIt observes tales from the Indian Mythology. In the performance, the main artist
narrates a story, plays music and dance on the tunes. The co-artists beat drums
and speak to him, enriching certain events in the story.
Butta Bommalata[mask's dance]Tanuku, West Godavari In this particular dance, the dancers wear masks of different characters
and entertain people with their delicate movements, accompanied by non
verbal music.
Chiratala BhajanaVillages of Andhra PradeshLean months of summerChekka bhajana is the most popular form of narrative art in Andhra Pradesh.Chekka bhajana is similar to kolatam dance in many respects except for a few differences.One is the use of "chekka" (wooden pieces) instead of "kolalu" (sticks).
DandariaNorthern HyderabadA Gond legend behind this dance is that an ancient Gond hero Dandaria, a descendant of the Pandava prince was the original creator of this dance.
Dappu DanceTelangana,Nizamabad DistrictMade of goatskin, a tambourine-like drum is beaten with sticks creating a rhythm that is softened only by the ankle bells that the 16 to 20 dancers wear.
Dhamal DanceSiddis of Hyderabad region12th centuryoccasion of marriageThis dance is ceremonial in nature performed especially
on the occasion of marriage.
Dhimsa DanceAraku , Visakhapatnammonths of Chaitra (March/April)The tribal dance sees 15-20 women forming a chain & dancing.Women attired in typical tribal dresses & ornaments dance to the beat of instruments like Mori, Thudum & Dappu Plyed by the male members.
Garaga DanceCoastal RegionsThe dancers put on colourful clothes and hold a bunch of margosa
leaves symbolic of Shakti worship.The adept Dappu players produce
varying beats in Trisara.
Gobbi DanceCoastal RegionsSankranti festivalDuring evenings young girl's gather around these gobbillu to dance and sing. This dance is a derived form of Garba described in dance treatises.
GoravayyaluSrisailamDuring religious occasions.The communal dance of the Shepherds. During their dance the males wore the black woollen cloth with effictive steps for cetain time and ater they move aprt from the festival region choosing the profession of begging.
Gusadi Dance of GondsAdilabad districtAt the time of getting harvest, near the time of DeepavaliThe Dandari dance starts with stepping slowly towards the left side and swinging the right foot on to the left foot at every step. Every dancer has two small sticks in his hands
Horse DanceGunturduring marriagesIn Guntur district, real horses are trained to dance according
to the rhythm of the drums. Tinkling bells are tied to the fetlocks
of the horse. During marriage processions and fairs the horse dance
is a popular pass time in this district
Karuva DanceEast GodavariKrishna reladsted festivalsThe classical dance forms of Andhra Pradesh are mainly Kuchipudi
and Bhamakalapam. They belong to the ancient school of
Bharatnatyam. The temple dances and the court dances
too have their own styles in Andhra
KolatamAll over the state of APIn all the festive occasionsKolatam is a play with sticks. This is known as Hallisaka
and Dandarasaka in Sanskrit. In olden days females used to
play Kolatam in temple halls as a devotional offering.
Now the Kolatam played by males is a folk art form.
Lambadi DancesAdilabad districtDuring harviesting, planting and sowingCostumes embroidered with glass beads and mirrors, ornate
jewellery, ivory bangles, brass anklets and a natural rhythm
make this dance a colourful exposition of joy which is the
highlight of many a festive occasion
Mango Dance of the Konda ReddisKhammam, East & West
Godavari districts
ceremonial festivalAfter feasting about midnight; men, women and children again begin to dance. They also sing songs invoking Mutyalamma and the hill gods and goddesses. This singing has some religious significance.
Mathuri DanceAdilabad districtThe dancers sing themselves devotional and secular songs at the time
of dance. The men strike the small sticks and the women clap to mark
the time.
Peacock Dance of the KhondsVisakhapatnam and Srikakulam districts.Month of AprilAll the dancers stand in two rows in the beginning and imitate the
cry of peacock. They form a circle and bend forward from their knees
so as to look like a dancing peacock.
Siddi DanceRural AndhraDuring marriagesDances depict the tribal warfare of their home land in all its
ferocity. Armed with shining sword and matchlock and dressed in
their exotic primitive costumes, they dance with vigour and force.
Tappeta GundluSrikakulam, Vijayanagaram Requesting dance for rainThis dance requires skill and muscle power. The artistes exhibit rare skills in acrobatics while dancing
Tiger DanceAndhra Pradesh, Tamil NaduDussehra and Muharram festivalsAn able bodied man with a narrow strip of cloth around the waist, and the whole body painted with stripes like a tiger and elaborate make-up, sporting a long tail, dances vigorously in tiger like strides and wild jumps.
Urumulu[thunder dance]Anantapuram districtceremonial danceThe instrument employed in this dance is called urumu. It is a
percussion instrument which sounds like thunder. The instrument
is made out of brass or bell metal - a hollow round pipe.
Veethi BhagavatamKrishna DistrictTemple festivalsThe Veethi Bhagavata has a single female artists, the main dancer,
she supported by a secondary female artistes. The role of Vidhushaka
is used to entertain and put across humour effectively in the play.
Vira NatyamTelanganaTraditional ceremonial danceViranatyam is presented by Viramushti and Jangam communities
during the festivals in Virabhadreswara temple at Kovari and
Kottakonda while offering Virabhadra palleram to the deity.
ToluBommalataAndhra PradeshThis performing art form is one more entertaining form which is one of the oldest art form of the Telugu folk of the Andhra Pradesh state. The name itself tells about the entire performance of the Tolummalata.

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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Nicobari danceCar Nicobar IslandDuring the full moon,Pig FestivalAndaman and Nicobar is home to many indigenous tribes and tribes that settled here from other parts of the world. Thus Andaman and Nicobar has an amalgamation of different cultures.

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Given Name [alias]Region(s)appx. Period of OrginationOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Wancho DanceLongkhau villageOzele Festivals and ceremonies in the month of February-March
The Wancho tribes of Arunachal Pradesh perform their special
dances on the occasions like festivals, ceremonies, which are
popularly known as Wancho dances.
Buiya Dancevillages of ArunachalPradeshDuiya, Tazampu and Tanuya festivalsFolk Dances of Mishmis The Digaru Mishmis perform two types of dances,
named as Buiya and Nuiya. The Buiya dance of Arunachal Pradesh has two
types of movements and it is performed for entertainment while the Nuiya
is a ritual-dance performed by a priest.
Ponung DanceAdi villageAll-important & auspicious occasionsThe dance performance is led by a Miri, who is a man adept in
mythical songs about the origin of paddy and other crops.
Khampti DanceArunachal PradeshPotwah, Sankian or KhamsangThe villagers send an invitation to the drama-party for the performance. After which, the drama is staged in the front courtyard or in some suitable open space near the houses.
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DanceRegion(s)appx. Period of OriginationOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Bihu DanceAssamFestival of Bihu&Spring festivalBihu dances performed by young boys and girls characterised
by brisk stepping, flinging and flipping of hands and swaying
of hips represents youthful passion, reproductive urge and
'Joie-de-vivre'.
Ankiya NatNamghars villagearound yr. 1449Praying to Lord KrishnaThe participants perform this art form by wearing large masks of gods, goddesses, demons and animals. The masks used for plays are huge in size, sometimes reaching up to the waist of the performer.
Deodhani DanceVillages of Assamover 400 years ago`Manasa Puja` i.e. the Snake Goddess.During this occasion an Ojha followed by his Pallis sings few songs.
In Deodhani the songs sung by Ojapali are known as Shuknamni. These
religious songs are sung in honour of Manasa Devi.
Husari and Bihunasvillage NamgharBihu festivalHusari is more religious than festive and gives clear indications
of the origin of the Bihu festival in some ancient fertility cult.
Dergonya NachaniDeragon village&Nalbari in Kamru DistrictDuring various ceremoniesDergonya Nachani is a form of a religious dance performed by
dancers in the front of the temple. In a village called Deragon
in Jorhat till the present days there are many female dancers who
reside in the temple premises and perform there.
Chhinna JatraAssamDramaThe drama was replete with Shringar Rasa, amorous and erotic. The main thought of the Chhinna Jatra was to provide enjoyment and gratification to the spectators. Hence it even lacked the religious aspect.
Gorgonya NachaniGorgaonThe descendants of this place still exist in that same place.
Their art of dancing that they practised is called Lasya. In this
the dancers along with dancing also sing the songs. Earlier they
were also taken to the courts of the Ahome kings where they used dance and sing.
Bhaona DanceBordoa in Nowgong districtKrishna reladsted festivalsBhaona Dance is performed on the backdrop of open air platform made of mud. Now days the dramas are performed under closed pandals. The platform is erected in the middle and the audience position themselves surrounding the platform.
Bagurumba DanceKokrajhar, Bongaigaon, Nalbari, Darrang and Sonitpur districts.Bwishagu festivalThe Bwishagu festival begins with a worship of the cows and then the young people bow down to their parents and other elders in the house. After this the Bathou is worshipped by offering the deity chicken and zou i.e rice beer.
Kamrupi DanceKamrup districtRitual DanceThe Kamrupi Dance was classified to give it a provincial touch as it had originated from Assam. Till now there is a district in the State by that name. The famous forms of Kamrupi dances are `Phalguni`, `Gita`, `Karnarjuna` and others.
Dhuliya and BhawariyaAssamGenerally accompanying bhawuas, i.e. theatrical performances of the type of miracle plays of Europe in the middle ages. These dances verging on acrobatics are performed to tunes of vigorous music provided with drums and cymbals. Masks are sometimes used.
Leken DanceAssamLeken dance is a famous Assamese dance which depicts the creation of the Earth. In this dance the waist is moved in a circular manner illustrating the movement of the Earth.
Zikirs

AssamZikirs are songs sung by Assamese Muslims to the accompaniment of dancing in circles and clapping of hands.
Mohauhau or MahkhedaKamrup districtFull moon night in Nov-Dec,FestivalIt is also considered as a festival.Boys in groups go from house to house and sing and dance, striking the ground with bamboo sticks and taking leaps and turns. The ceremony is believed to be helpful in driving away mosquitoes.

Apsara-SabahAssamThis is a ceremony in which the nymphs of the air are invoked during calamities and lean times, women with flowing hair dance in circles. The rhythm is provided by striking bamboo sticks on conch-shells or bangles.

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DanceRegion(s)appx. Period of OrginationOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
BidesiaUrban and rural20th centuryBhikari Thakur used satire and light-hearted comments to maximum effect to put forward his views on social ills and other problems plaguing Bhojpuri society.
Jat-Jatin DanceBiharStage DanceThe original theme of the Jat-Jatin dance of Bihar explains the story of the lovers Jat and Jatin, who were separated and living in difficult situations.
Kajari DanceBiharShravan monthThe main content of these songs describe the pleasant change that has come due to the rainy season.
Jumari DanceMithilanchal of BiharAfter the month of Ashvin in September-October, the next one is the Kartik month and at this time,The full moon looks attractive and spreads its milky rays in all directions. Such a romantic atmosphere gets the married women to go on dancing, singing and celebrating the turns of the season.
Jhijhian DanceBiharPraying rain god IndraJhijhian dance is also related to rain but in this dance, the objective is very different. It is infact sung when there is no rain for a long time than its usual arrival.
Paika Dance[battle dance]BiharDuring Marriages&festival of DusseraThe word `Paika` is derived from the Sanskrit word `Padatika` which means the infantry. The Paika dance of Bihar has a martial art character and is performed with shields and swords.
Bhuiyas DanceBiharDancing partiesDance of Bhuiyas is based on the ritual of courtship which had evolved from a mere amusement of their community. The dancing parties held among the boys and girls of a particular village are regarded as much as rehearsals.
Maghi DanceBiharThe `Maghi` dance of Bihar is celebrated with much pomp and gaiety. It consists of carefree scamper of girls and boys throughout the village. They also go to other villages. A group of almost three thousand people are formed for the celebration of the dance program which also includes feasting and merrymaking.
Jumari DanceBiharAfter the month of Ashwin (September-October) comes Kartik.The sky is crystal clear, there is no cloud, it is full moon spreading milky rays all over. Maids in love go on dancing, singing and celebrating the turns of the season.
Jatra DanceBiharKarma FestivalThe Jatra dance depicts the mock fights between people of one village with the other. The two groups representing each village advance for a combat with long poles surmounted by pennants and waving sticks and clubs.
Sohar-Khilouna DanceBiharceremonial danceThis is a ceremonial dance to celebrate the pleasure of new birth in a family. The birth of a child is celebrated in all parts of the country with different traditional rituals.
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DanceRegion(s)appx. Period of OrginationOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
BidesiaUrban and rural20th centuryBhikari Thakur used satire and light-hearted comments to maximum effect to put forward his views on social ills and other problems plaguing Bhojpuri society.
Jat-Jatin DanceBiharStage DanceThe original theme of the Jat-Jatin dance of Bihar explains the story of the lovers Jat and Jatin, who were separated and living in difficult situations.
Kajari DanceBiharShravan monthThe main content of these songs describe the pleasant change that has come due to the rainy season.
Jumari DanceMithilanchal of BiharAfter the month of Ashvin in September-October, the next one is the Kartik month and at this time,The full moon looks attractive and spreads its milky rays in all directions. Such a romantic atmosphere gets the married women to go on dancing, singing and celebrating the turns of the season.
Jhijhian DanceBiharPraying rain god IndraJhijhian dance is also related to rain but in this dance, the objective is very different. It is infact sung when there is no rain for a long time than its usual arrival.
Paika Dance[battle dance]BiharDuring Marriages&festival of DusseraThe word `Paika` is derived from the Sanskrit word `Padatika` which means the infantry. The Paika dance of Bihar has a martial art character and is performed with shields and swords.
Bhuiyas DanceBiharDancing partiesDance of Bhuiyas is based on the ritual of courtship which had evolved from a mere amusement of their community. The dancing parties held among the boys and girls of a particular village are regarded as much as rehearsals.
Maghi DanceBiharThe `Maghi` dance of Bihar is celebrated with much pomp and gaiety. It consists of carefree scamper of girls and boys throughout the village. They also go to other villages. A group of almost three thousand people are formed for the celebration of the dance program which also includes feasting and merrymaking.
Jumari DanceBiharAfter the month of Ashwin (September-October) comes Kartik.The sky is crystal clear, there is no cloud, it is full moon spreading milky rays all over. Maids in love go on dancing, singing and celebrating the turns of the season.
Jatra DanceBiharKarma FestivalThe Jatra dance depicts the mock fights between people of one village with the other. The two groups representing each village advance for a combat with long poles surmounted by pennants and waving sticks and clubs.
Sohar-Khilouna DanceBiharceremonial danceThis is a ceremonial dance to celebrate the pleasure of new birth in a family. The birth of a child is celebrated in all parts of the country with different traditional rituals.
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Bhavada Dance,Tarpa Dance,Bohada Dance
Tur and Thali Dance ,Dhol Dance,Gherria Dance .
Marriage, childbirth, religious festival or harvestThe aboriginal people of Dadra & Nagar Haveli carry on with their traditional customs and habitual rituals. Their festivals are very colorful and a large part of the festivities comprise of their very own folk dances.
Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Daman And Diufairs and festivals ,October to mayFolk Dance festival in Daman and Diu is the typical Portuguese regional folk dances of the territory that include the Mando Dance, Vira Dance, and the Verdigao. During the Folk Dance festival in Daman and Diu happiness and whole life style of the people of Diu is depicted.
DanceRegion(s)appx. Period of OrginationOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Dashavatara danceGoa16th centuryThey form the base of Dashavatara dance. Some people believe that this dance has evolved from "Yakshagana", while others consider it, to have emerged from "Kuchipudi". Many actors believe that Dashavatara is originally a dance form of Kerala and they worship a deity of the Walaval region in Kerala.
Ghode Modni dance[warrior-dance]Sattari taluka in GoaShigmo festivalGhode Modni dance literally involves horse-like movements in its performances. It is a spectacular warrior-dance performed for the remembrance of the victory of the Ranes, the Maratha rulers of the Satari taluka in Goa, over the Portuguese.
Goff DanceGoaShigmo festival in Phalgun monthThere are four different braids of Goff dance. The songs that are sung during the dance performance are mostly devoted to Lord Krishna. Ghumat, Samael and Surta Shansi or melodic instruments accompanies the dance performance.
Manddo

Sattari taluka of Goafrom 1966 onwardsManddo festivalManddo is a song or rather a poignant story of love told in the form of a lovely song. The word Manddo, derives from the Sanskrit 'mandalam' meaning circular movement.
The Dulpod Or DurpodIf the Manddo can be called an expression of the romantic aspect of the Goan, the Dulpod that follow it is the singing repertoire.
Deknni or DakhnniGoaIt is a form of song-cum-dance in the Christian repertoire of song among the people of Goa. It is a song composed by Christian artistes perhaps an expression of the Goan Christian nostalgia for their lost Hindu past, where the Devadasi or kolvont in was an alluring symbol.
Kunnbi-GeetGoaNondnni (weeding), Mollnni (threshing), Luvnni (harvesting)These Kunnbis are found concentrated in the Chandor-Kouddi hamlet of Chandor in an exclusive ward of their own called Kunbeam-Vaddo now being called by them as Miream-Jirem.
Talgoddi DanceChandor villageThere are some activities which are peculiar to Goan Hindus. The spirit of the carnival finds its expression in Chandor village among the Hindus in the form of the Talgoddi dance.
Mussoll
Chandor villagearound 1310 ADThe full moon night in the month of PhalgunaThe Mussoll or pounding pestle used in the dance is made of solid bamboo of about 6-7 feet in length with inserted hawk's bells and is carried only by those who will actually dance.
DhaloGoamoonlit night of the Pausha monthThe liveliest fun of a Dhalo session, occurs on the concluding day. The week which can be called women's lib week concludes with a sense of freedom.
Shigmo

GoaMonth of March&PhalgunaShigmo is the time for the home coming of the brave, who had left their firesides with the Dussehra. For the farmer and the shepherd, it is the time of rebirth of nature and for the warriors, the time of return of man.
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DanceRegion(s)appx. Period of OrginationOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Garba DanceGujaratNavaratri festival, Sharad Purnima, Vasant PanchamiGarba dance is originally a popular folk dance of Gujarat. This dance form has connection with Shakti-Puja and its origin is believed to be in the worship of goddess Jagdamba.
Tippani DanceGujaratfestivals like Holi or Diwali and on the ceremonies like wedding.
Tippani Dance, GujaratThere are many folk dances in India that typically represents the community related activities and their functional aspects, and the Tippani folk dance is also a dance of such a pattern.
DandiyaChief folk dance of GujaratNavratri season in October.Gujarat has successfully preserved its rich tradition of song, dance and drama. Dandiya is one of the important dance forms among them.
Dandia-rasLimbdi region of GujaratNavratrimost popular Dandia -Ras is also known as the `stick` dance. This is another form of dance that is also a feature of most welcomed festival, Navratri.
Bhavai DanceGujarat20th centuryBhavai is staged open-air in front of temples as a community ritual honouring the goddess Amba. Before the actors begin, they gather near a large earthen lamp and a drawing of a trishula or trident symbolizing the goddess.
Modhera DanceModhera in Mehsana districtAnnual festival of danceThe beautiful Sun Temple acts as the backdrop during the festival of Indian classical dances held every year in January for three days. This annual festival of dance is organized by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat.
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DanceRegion(s)appx. Period of OrginationOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Saang DanceHaryana1750 AD.
Saang dance is a popular dance form of Haryana, reflecting its culture in true sense. A group comprising of people in even numbers such as ten or twelve persons performs it.
Chhathi Dancesixth day of the birth of a male child
Khoria Dancecentral region of Haryanaharvest, agricultural workThe Khjoria dance is a collective form of the variety of the Jhumar dance style & steps, exclusively performed by the women.
Dhamal DanceGurgaon areaPurpose of the harvest.
This dance is performed only by men. It is said that the people perform this dance whenever their crop is ready for the purpose of the harvest.
Ghoomar DanceWestern parts of the HaryanaFestivals such as Holi, Gangaur Puja and Teej. The girls from the border region of the state generally perform Ghoomar. The dancers, who take a circular mode and move about clapping and singing, perform this dance.
Jhumar DanceThe dance named after an ornament called as "Jhumar" . Jhumar dance is also one among the famous folk dances of Haryana.
Gugga DanceGugga Naumi allover northern Indiaweek or two Before Gugga NaumiThe dance was naming Gugga by the devotees of saint Gugga. Gugga dance is performed by only men. Both Hindus and Muslims worship Gugga Pir.
Loor DanceBangar area of HaryanaHoli festivalThis dance marks the arrival of pleasant spring season and with it the sowing of the Rabi crops in the farms. The songs are generally in the form of questions and answers format.
Ras LeelaBraja area of the Faridabad districtKrishna reladsted festivalsThis dance is common among the people living in the Braja area of the Faridabad district. Lord Vishnu has been manifest in many incarnations. He is the supreme embodiment. He is Lord Krishna.
Phag Dance or PhalgunHaryanaThe month of February -MarchIn this dance men and women group together. The rhythm takes them on to emotional expression through their hands, eyes, and feet. The dance involves a variety of movement ,requiring sound co-ordination.
Daph danceHaryanaThe harvest and springIt depicts the joyful emotions of the farmers. Men and women of all sections of the village community participate in this dance, separately. For melodic instruments the ancient Haryanavis used flutes, lutes and beens.
Holi DanceFaridabad, Pulwal and Ballabhgarhseasonal festival of springThis exuberant dance is connected with the seasonal festival of spring.
When the rural community rejoices and relaxes after the completion of
their agricultural operations.
Gangor-Puja Dancevillages bordering on Rajasthanpuja ceremony of Iswar and GangorIt is devotional dance to invoke the blessings of the gods for good harvest and is usually performed in the months of palghun and Chait.
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DanceRegion(s)appx. Period of OriginationOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
NamagenHimachal Pradeshmonth of SeptemberThe most striking dance performance amongst these is the Gaddis.The costumes that are used in this dance are of woolens and women wear richly studded ornaments of silver. The dancing steps & rhythm of the dance is wonderfully mixed with each other. Drum plays an important part in this dance performance.
KarayilaThis drama includes an entertaining series of small playlets, skits, variety shows and parodies. This form of shows present sharp and pungent satires about the bureaucracy and social issues very boldly.
Losar Shona Chuksam DanceHimachal PradeshAgricultural festivalThe dancing steps depict all activities that are related with farming from sowing to reaping barley and phaphar (a local grain). The dance performance also includes innovative performed in the form of mime.
The Mala Dance[garland]Himachal PradeshIn this, the dancers dressed in their traditional finery, weave their arms,
together to form a sort of a criss-cross pattern so that, they appear like
beads in an intricately woven garland.
The Demon danceKinnaur areaChaitol and Bishu festivalIn these men and women hold hands and dance. The leader is known as 'Ghure' and the rest follow in his footsteps. In some areas men and women dance separately
The Dalshone and Cholamba dancesRopa valleyThe Cholamba dance is performed when a tiger is killed. The skin of the dead animal is stuffed and a gold ornament is put in his nose. The carcass is then rotated and the people dance around it.
Nagas KayangVillages of HimachalThis dance is performed by young men and women. The Shuna Kayang dance is danced in most villages in the area and it combines both slow and fast movements.
Jataru KayangHimachal PradeshFestivalsThe chamar becomes a great source of resentment and leads to fights among the dancers. The Ghure who is the leader of the dance has to deposit a small fee at the temple of the deity for using the chamar.
The Shan and Shabu dancesLahaul valleyHarvesting of crops&local religious festivalsIt is a tribal dance which is performed at the completion of the harvesting of crops. The instrument played in this are drums, shehnai and a stringed instrument like a violin.
NualaChamba valleyPraying lord SivaIn this a garland is placed upon a pedestal as Shiva's garland and around it many dance dramas depicting scenes from the life of Lord Shiva are enacted.
Keekali and BhangraKangra, Himirpur and Una areasThe tribal dances of the trans-Himalayan region are different in content and music. The old tradition of both song and dance in these areas has been zealously guarded against any urban influence
The Jhoori, Gi, Swang Tegi and Rasa dancesSirmaurThe Jhoori, Thadair, Rasa, Gi, Nati, Swang Tegi, Draudi and Padua are popular dance forms of Sirmaur and the surrounding area. Jhoori is danced in the open. It is danced to questions and answers delivered in musical tones. Each line ends with Hoo Hoo sounds.
Khaydayat and Lamba dancesHimachal PradeshThe Lamba dance lays more stress on the movement of the feet. In this the dancers with first movement put the right foot forward and then the left and then the right again and in the fourth movement revert back to their original position. At the same time they clap their hands. It is a vigorous dance.
The Lahadi and Ghooghati dancesHill communitiesLahadi is a popular dance of hill communities which is performed by women. In this, women form two teams which stand face to face.In the Ghooghati dance the dancer stands in a line and the one behind puts his hand on the shoulders of the one in front of him.
The Dand Ras and Dangi DancesHimachal Pradeshfestivals, weddingsThe Danda Ras is danced to the best of complex rhythms like Dhamal
and Lahauli on drums.The Dangi dances is a dance form of the Chamba
area. It is performed at festivals, weddings and during Jatara by
the Gaddi women
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Bhand Jashna"festival of clowns" of Kashmir300 to 400-year-oldsocial and cultural functionsBhand Jashna is performed by a group of 10 to 15 artists in their traditional style accompanied by musical instruments like the Surnai - a Kashmiri version of the Indian Shehnai, big Dhol, Nagara, and Peshrao.
Dumhal DanceKashmirset occasions and at set locationsApart from dancing, the performers also sing along songs in chorus, tuned with music by various drums. In this dance, groups of performers move in a ritual manner and dig a banner into the ground on various occasions.
Kud Dancemiddle mountain ranges of
the Jammu region
HarvestThe Kud dance is performed during the rainy seasons and it exhibits swaying & sinuous movements
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
YakshganaKarnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu16th centuryYakshgana is a folk theatre form of Karnataka and it is an ancient
art. It relates with many of the traditions and conventions of the
Sanskrit theatre or drama, particularly those of the Purvaranga and
the existence of a character, vidushak.
Dollu Kunitha DanceNorth Karnataka, Shimoga
and Chitradurga districts
Kunitha are considered as the ritualistic dances of Karnataka, of which the Dollu Kunitha is one of the ritualistic dances that is popular with the kurubas of `Beereshvara Sampradaya`
Bhootha AradhaneKarnataka.once in the month of JanuaryThis form of dance is rarely seen. Bhootha means ghost. The references to these creatures` dates back to myths. In mythology Lord Shiva`s attendants are referred to as Bhuta Ganas.
Nagamandala Dance Formcoastal districts of Dakshina Kannada and UdupiThis traditional dance form is interesting to watch. The origin of Nagamandala is rooted in human curiosity. Snakes have always been a subject of awe and wonder in India.
KolataMandya and Hassan districtssocial and cultural functionsKolata or stick dance is a kind of valour dance involving groups of people who indulge in bending, swaying and jumping activities to the tune of rhythmic clashing of sticks.
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Kakkarissi KaliTiruvananthapuramIt also contains wild beatings of primitive drums like para, veekkan chenda etc.
KaavadiyattomKeralaPray Lord SubrahmaniamFor performance, a number of dancers gather in temple, dressed
in yellow or rose colour costumes. Their body is smeared with
lines of ashes and each candidate has an ornate kaavadi on the shoulder.
Kanniyar KaliKeralaIt is being performed since centuries and is sometimes called as Desathukali. It is a fast moving, militant dance having pleasant rhythmic devotional folk songs. It is said to be a ritual offering in honour of the deity Bhagavathy.
ThirayattomKeralaceremonial danceIt is a ceremonial dance, which is performed as a vital part of
festive celebrations in Kavus, in the Central Malabar region.
Kummatti DanceSouth Malabar region of KeralaThe dancers wear brightly painted wooden masks on the faces while dancing.
TiruvathiraKeralafirst half of 19th centuryTiruvathira celebrationThe cultural level has always been fairly high in the middle and upper classes and women fully participate in it. In Kerala, there is a unique phenomenon of a continuous escalation of folk traditions
MargamkaliKerala The word 'Margam' means path, way, religion or creed. The real source of inspiration for Margamkali was Kalaripayattu which was very popular when the Christian community had developed the form.
OppanaKeralaMarriage'sOppana is a form accompanied by clapping of hands. Both men and women participate in it. In marriages, the women move in a circle and receive the bride while men stand aside singing songs and receive the bridegroom
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
MaanchMalwa17th century"Maanch" means the stage or place of performance and as an indigenous & distinct folk-form.
Gaur Maria DanceMadhya PradeshThe announcement or invitation for a dance is given by making sound with a bamboo trumpet or a horn.
Dahi Kala DanceMadhya PradeshGokulashtamiDahi Kala Dance, Madhya PradeshThe `Dahi Handi` (curd pot) or the `Dahi Kala` is a much celebrated dance of Madhya Pradesh celebrated in memory of Lord Krishna`s famous prank of stealing curd along with his group of friends.
Karma DanceMadhya PradeshThey make two rows facing each other. Along with the dance the musicians play on a type of drum called a `timki` which they place on the ground between them. The dance is graceful to observe and is performed with measured steps.
Lota DanceMadhya PradeshThe Lota dance is performed by the womenfolk of the Banjaras. In the dance they place a series of pitchers filled with water one on top of the other balancing on their hands.
Dance of Kamad TribeMadhya PradeshHoliThe Kamad tribe of Madhya Pradesh depicts in their dances their pastoral and rural life. In this dance both the man and the women take part. The male performers sing and play a single string instrument, called `Ektara.`
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
TamashaMaharashtrasixteenth century`Tamasha` is a Persian word which means entertainment or fun. It is a blend of different influences. There are several scholars who believe that Tamasha is inspired by two forms of drama in Sanskrit; the `Bhana` and the `Prahsana`.
KoliMaharashtraThe dances of these fishermen possess elements taken from their occupation, which is fishing. Koli is performed in this state by women and men, who divide themselves in two groups.
LavaniMaharashtra18th and 19th century
Maratha battle
Lavani is a mixture of traditional dance and song, which is performed mainly to the beats of
Dholak`; an instrument like a drum. This folk dance is executedby beautiful women wearing
sarees of nine-yards
PovadasMaharashtraPovadas form a part of Marathi ballads, depicting the Marathi leader Shri Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj`s life. Shivaji holds a respectable position in each and every Maharashtrian`s heart.
Dhangari GajaDhangar in Sholapur districtTo please their God for his blessingsThe Dhangars earn their living by rearing sheep and goats. Their poetry is mainly inspired by the evergreen trees all around. The poetry is in a form called 'Ovi' which is made up of couplets.
Kala and Dindi DanceMaharashtraEkadashi day in the month of KartikKala is another folk dance form that describes the playful attitude of Lord Krishna. This dance form features a pot symbolizing fertility. Dindi is a small drum, like a 'Tamate'. The dancers dance to the rhythm by surrounding the musicians, providing the essential musical background
Nakhayi Kolin DanceMaharashtraThe Nakta is the clown who puts on a mask while performing the dance who provides laughter and entertainment to the villagers specially the children.
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Pung CholomManipurPung Cholom is folk art form with a combination of sound and movements, which sometimes demand acrobatic abilities & stamina.
Maibi Dancevalley of ManipurFestival Lai-HaraobaWhich is an annual ritual festival of the Meitei Manipuris living in the valley of Manipur.
Khamba ThaibiManipurRitual DanceKhamba and Thoibi is a drama which relates the love story of the pair and the tragic end of their story. Khamba belonged to the Moirang clan.
Lai HaraobaManipurCelebration of the GodsThe Nupa dance or Nupa Pala is also known as Kartal Cholom or Cymbal Dance, performed in a group, only by the men folk.
Nupa Dance[Cymbal Dance]ManipurThe movements involved in this dance are soft, gentle and serene during the initial stage; however, it gradually gathers momentum in it.
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Shad Sukmynsiem[Weiking dance]Khasi HillsDuring the month of April of each year colourful thanks giving festivalVirgins and menfolk dressed in traditional and colourful costumes participate in the dance, which is accompanied by drums and pipes called tangmuri, the queen of musical instruments.
Shad NongkremMeghalayacelebrated in November of every year. Like all other ceremonies of the Meghalayans, it is performed to propitiate the all powerful Goddess Ka Blei Synshar for a rich bounteous harvest and prosperity of the people (subject).
DoregataKhasi HillsAnother dance that the performer dangles a pomelo or any other fruit on a cord tied to his waist and then whirls it round and round after the initial impetus with a barely perceptible movement of his hips.
Do Dru-su'aThe Garos have traditional dance called Do Dru-su'a in which two women dance like doves pecking each other.
Laho danceFor entertainment, the Pnars have their Laho dance, in which members of both sex participate in their festival finery. Usually two young men on either side of a girl , linking arms together dance in steps.
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Cheraw Dance[Bamboo dance]Mizoram`Buhza Aih` that is the bumper harvestThe dancers perform various attractive steps in and out on the beats of the bamboos.
Khuallam DanceMizoramKhuangchawi` ceremonyThe dance is performed with an accompaniment of the sounds of gongs known as darbu`, but has no lyrics for the songs sung.
ChailamMizoramDuring the festivalsChailam is a group dance performed by a group of men and women who stand alternatively in the shape of a circle.
Sawlakin[Lakher dance]MizoramThe dance was led by the warrior who had hunted a big game or killed a man.
He would wear his best clothes and a plume of red feather.
ChawnglaizawnMizoramprize received for good huntingDuring such occasions the dance is performed in large groups. Both boys and girls dance the drum`s beat. Shawls are also used in order to facilitate the movement of arms. However in this dance only drums are used.
ChheihlamMizoramIn the year 1900Basically they recount their heroic deeds and escapades as well as praise the honoured guests who are watching it.
Zangtalam[Paihte tribe]MizoramThe drummer choreographs the dance and the duration of the dance depends on how long the drummer can beat the drum. It is a rhythmic dance.
SarlamkaiMizoramSarlamkai is the variation of Solakia dance. However the dressing is different in this dance. Gongs or cymbals or drums are used.
Par LamMizoramPar lam is a dance performed by the girls attired in colourful dresses, with flowers tucked in their hair.Musical accompaniment is given by the boys.
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Zeliang TribeNagalandDuring a performance, the participants start entering slowly into the stage or arena with some distinctive steps or movement and stand making a circle or other geometrical shape.
Zemis TribeNorth Cachar hillsThese dances are sometimes segregated with regard to the steps of dance, after its similarity with insects, birds or even animals
Chang LoNagalandcelebrate the victory over enemiesPresently, it forms a part of all the community celebrations, such as Poanglem, a three day festival preceding the harvest season. There are dramatic costumes of the traditional Naga warrior and finery of womenfolk.
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
PalaOrissaMedieval periodMarriages or any religious festivalGhumura was also used as a Darbari dance in the princely state of Kalahandi and played by the earstwhile Kalahandi state during war times
GhumuraSouth Western Orissaworship of Lord ShivaThis performance of Daskathia is considered as ritualistic and secular in nature. The performance group consists of two people, a chief singer (Gayaka) and the other known as the `Palia`.
DaskathiaOrissaChaitra Purnima and continues till the Pana Sankranti (Vishuva Sankranti) day.Kamana Ghata carries an importance in Danda Nata. Ghata is the Pitcher, which is full of water, and it holds a very important place in the performance
Danda NataOrissa In the Prahlad Nataka, the textual part contains overall 120
songs, which were written by Gopinath Parichha, who was one of the members of the court of Raja Ramakrishna Chhotray of Jalantar.
Prahlad NatakaGanjam District,OrissaBharat Lila is an example of presenting the stories from epics with expressive acts & dances
Bharat LilaGanjam District of Orissa. It is performed in the presence of various musical instruments. In some parts, it is also termed
as by the name `Dhudiki Nabaranga Nata.
Ghudiki Nabaranga NataOrissaDusserahThe `Dalkhai` is an eye-catching dance performance by the tribal women from the Sambalpur district of Orissa.
Dalkhai Dancewestern OrissaIt is a folk dance of the Bodo community, which is very rich in cultural wealth.
Bagurumba DanceOrissathe worship of Devi ManasaIt is actually based on a mythological reference, where a wife had to dance before the goddess Manasa to get her husband`s life back.
Deodhani DanceOrissaIn this dance performance, two to four performers play the Dhepadhol and it is specially to generate a unique sound, while beating it.
Dhepa Dhuliya DanceDarrang region of OrissaChaitra & BaisakhThe dance is deeply ingrained in the Shakti cult. An integral portion of this dance drama is enacted by the character of a horse. Therefore it is called
Ghoda Dance.
Chaiti Ghoda Natacoastal OrissaThe dance of the Juangs closely resembles the Bhuiya dances of the hill tribes but the Juangs lack the style and grace of the Bhuiya.
JuangsThe dance is a stylized mock battle in which two groups of dancers armed with swords and shields, alternatively attack and defend themselves with vigorous movements and elegant stances.
Ruk Mar Nacha[Chhau dance]Mayurbhanj District
of Orissa
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
GaradiPondicerryAll festivalsThe dancers are disguised as 'vanars' and carry sticks in their hands as they dance to the beat of two big drums, called ' Ramadolus'. A distinctive feature of this dance is the iron rings called 'anjali' which dancers wear on their legs - ten on each leg.
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Bhangra DancePunjabWeddings and festivals,Baisakhi only by the menBhangra includes the drummer who usually stands in the center of the circle in an open space surrounded by dancers who even recite meaningless `bolis`, words such as hoay.
Jhummar DancePunjabweddings and other major functionsThe Jhummar dance is a dance of ecstasy and a living testimony of the happiness of men, so performed only by men.
Luddi DancePunjabThis dance can also be done with the drummer standing at the center but sometimes the
dancers dance before a throng of people by moving forward
Dhumall DancePunjabThis folk dance also has not been able to achieve the popularity of Bhangra.
Jalli DancePunjabJalli dance is a religious dance associated with Pirs and recluses and is generally danced in their hermitages (khangahs).
Giddha DanceWest PunjabThis dance form is derived from the ancient style of ring dancing.
Kikli DanceThere are varieties of traditional songs available that are used
to accompany the `Kikli` dance, where most of these consist merely of loosely rhyming lines without underlying theme.
Jaago DanceweddingJaago is constructed following the style of ancient balconies on several surfaces of which lamps are hanged in the style of stars.
Teeyan DancePunjabwomen`s dance festivalTeeyan is also performed to welcome the rains is the principal time for the Giddha.
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Gowari Dancenine functionaries follow a strict regimen.The Bhils community of the men and women enjoy this dance. While dancing they sing alternately and move clockwise & anti-clockwise giving free body movements.
Ghoomer DanceRajasthanFairs & festivalsThe performers in Ghoomar dance sway their colorful ghagras that are rich in embroidery work and it is also embellished with mirror-work.
Terahtali DanceRajasthanThe 'terahtali' is a fascinating dance performed by women, while sitting. The women have 'manjeeras' (little brass discs) tied with long strings to their wrists, elbows, waists, arms and a pair in their hands as well.
Drum DanceJalore region of Rajasthanvarious states of IndiaIn this dance,five men beat huge drums that are tied around their necks; a dancer, which holds huge cymbals in their hands, also accompanies them.
Fire DanceBikaner and Churu districtsDevotional dances can be seen only in late nightsThe accompanying music rises in tempo as the dance progresses, ending with the performer dancing on brightly glowing embers, which is a breathtaking and deeply impressive sight.
Chari DanceKisherigarh regiongathering water from a far distance-in this sequenceRajasthan has a lot of inadequate water supply and gathering water from a far distance is a part of everyday life of women folk.
Kathputli DanceRajasthanKathputli Dance means the dances of pupets.Through the puppet shows all the real stories of great heros has been told from village to another.
Kalbeliya DanceRajasthanThe Kalbeliyas, is a snake-charmer community from Rajasthan, which performs the Kalbeliya dance. They rely heavily on this dance performance
for their living.
Gair DanceRajasthanfestival of HoliGair Dance is a folk dance of the Bhil community of Rajasthan
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
MaruniSikkimFestival of Light,marriagesDuring this festival Maruni dancers richly dressed in colourful costumes and resplendent with ornaments.
Tamang SeloSikkimTamangs are a Nepali community and the `Tamang Selo` dance is performed to the rhythmic sound of the `Dhamphu` musical instrument which the dancers carry in their hands.
Lepcha Folk Dance-Zo-Mal-LokSikkimharvesting of paddyThe dance is performed by the Lepcha farmers to reduce the
drudgery and monotony of working in the fields.
Bhutia Folk Dance Tashi SabdoSikkimThis dance describes the custom of offering `Khadas` or scarves.
Khang-chen-dzod-nga DanceSikkim(1686-1716)worship of snowy range of KanchanjungaKanchendzonga is portrayed as a fiery red - countenanced deity with a crown of five skulls, riding the mythical snow lion and holding aloft the banner of victory.
Black Hat (Kali topi) DanceSikkimSikkimese New Year DayThis masked dance is also performed by male dancers mostly the Lamas. The dance revives the old story which narrates that about twelve centuries ago King Land-Darma was slain for suppressing Buddhism in Tibet.
Tibetan Yak DanceSikkimThis dance is performed to honour the yak. This is an animal on which man is completely dependent upon for survival at high altitudes.
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
KarakamThanjavur,Tirunelveli districtThe villagers perform this dance in praise of the rain goddess "Mari Amman" and the river goddess "Gangai Amman" as a part of their custom.
KolaattamAll over the state of Tamil NaduAmavasi or New-moon night after Deepavali.
Kol means a small stick, and Attam means play, hence, a play or dance performed with sticks can be its simplest meaning.
Kavadi AattamThirupparakundram in Madurai districtworship SubrahmanyaOnly the men perform it, since only they can hold the Kavadi. Sometimes it is also done by balancing a pole with pots fixed on either end of stick, filled with milk or coconut water.
Bhagavatha MelaThanjavur districtFor EntertainmentKuravanji is a type of dance-drama distinctive to the Tamils. As performed for an entertaining objective, whose emphasis is balanced between the classical & traditional one
Nondi Natakamsome part of Tamil Naidu17th or early 18th centuryThe word "Nondi" means, the one who limps and "Natakam" means play. Thus, a play performed by a character, keeping one leg folded at the back, is Nondi Natakam.
Pavai KoothuTamil Nadu16th centuryThe name is quite appropriate to its theme, as all the stories concern with the feelings of Vali, one of Lord Shiva`s attendants, for Subramanya, who is one of Shiva`s sons.
BommalattamTamil NaduFestivals and fairsThere are various kinds of puppets used for this show, made up of cloth, wood, leather, etc. A skilled performer with the help of strings or wires controls them.
Kuravaik-KoothuTamil NaduThis dance has a peculiar musical significance. The seven notes of the musical scale are arranged in a circle and the seven girls are called by the names of the seven musical notes viz Kural, Tattam, Kalikkilae.
Puravai AttamTamil NadufestivalsPuravai Attam also known as Poikkal Kuthirai, is a dummy horse show. The dummy horse is made of jute, cardboard, paper, and glass.
TherukoothuNorthern districtsTraditional street playThe art of entertainment had reached to its peak in Tamil Nadu at an early age. There were mainly three forms of entertainment in ancient Tamil Nadu.
Arayar NatanamShrirangamin December-JanuaryThe Araya's practice a certain esoteric system of dance wherein the postures are conventional and present situations associated with lord Krishna's Juvenile Pranks
Leather puppet showTamil NaduThese puppets are made of thin goat skin carefully cured to make them translucent. They are cut and joined in such a way that the limbs can be moved.
NavasandhiTamil Naduannual festival of the temple at TiruchendurThe dances performed by the Palanquin-bearers of the Lord are other variations of the drama tradition combining music and dance.
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Garia DanceTripura Statemiddle of April, they pray to the God 'Garia' for a happy harvest.The celebration is attached to the Garia Puja that lasts about for seven days, where they seek to entertain their beloved deity with song and dance, which is also known as the Garia dance
Lebang Boomani DanceTripura StateAfter the Garia festival is over, the Tripuris have a time to rest awaiting the monsoonThe rhythm of the sound made by the bamboo chips attracts the insects from their hiding places and the women in-groups catch them. With the change of time jhuming on hill slopes are gradually diminishing.
Hozagiri DanceTripura StateThe Reang tribal community, which is a very distinct community, practises this dance form and hence even the dance is very different from the other tribal dances.
Hai-Hak DanceTripura StateEnd of Harvesting seasonThe Halam community, whose social and economic life, also revolves around jhum cultivation, performs the Hai-Hak dance.
Wangala DanceTripura StateAfter the harvestThe Sangnakma, head of the communities visits every house and cuts a pumpkin as a part of gods worship, which is sacrificed on this occasion for one`s peaceful life.
Welcome DanceTripura Statewelcoming guestsThis is performed for visitors, who pay visits to their house as a guest. Being a very colorful & attractive dance, young girls of the entire community take part and enjoy in the same.
Cheraw DanceTripura StatePerform throughout the day and nightThe Darlong community, strongly believes that man is destined to go to heaven after his/her death.
Way Dance[Lamp Dance]Tripura Statethe day of full moon of the month in AshvinThe traditional dance of the Mog community is known as a `Way Dance` or `Lamp Dance`.
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
RaslilaBraj areaPraying Lord KrishnaRas Lila is a cosmic dance that is often defined as a popular Indian folk dance. Ras Lila originated from Vrajadham or Vrindavan, the land in Uttar Pradesh, where Lord Krishna resided
RamlilaVaranasiDuring the festival DussehraRamlila is considered as a dance form having spiritual connectivity; thus a performance of Ramlila creates a festive atmosphere with peaceful waves. Ramlila is generally performed during the festival Dussehra in Uttar Pradesh.
Mayur DanceMathuraLathmar Holi of MathuraWomen from Barsana greet them while beating them with long wooden sticks and colored water where the men have to be well padded as they cannot retaliate.
Charkula DanceBraj region of Uttar Pradesh.About Krishna leela's(miracles)Charkula is a popular folk dance of Uttar Pradesh. This Uttar Pradesh dance form has its origin in the Braj region of the state and therefore is predictably connected to the myths surrounding the life and times of Krishna.
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Hurka Baul DanceCultivation of paddy and maizeThe hurka is the only musical instrument used in the dance. In the Hurka Baul dance performance; the singer slowly & interestingly narrates the story of battles and heroic deeds.
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Name & AliasRegion(s)appx. Origin timelineOccasion / SignificanceShort Description
Brita DanceWest BengalThey offer their thankfulness to GodBrita Dance is also called Vrita Dance and it is regarded as a very special one in this state. It is mainly an invocation dance performed by women of Bengal, who are unable to give birth to children.
Chhau Dance[mask dance]Purulia district in the state of West BengalMythological danceChhau dance of Purulia has some characteristics of primitive ritualistic dance in its vigour, style and musical accompaniment mainly the drum.
Gambhira DanceMalda districtChadak festival in the month of March-AprilGambhira Dance is one of Bengal`s folk dances which acquired a significant position in the culture of this state. Folk dances in this state were initially either devotional or agricultural.
Tusu DanceBirbhum districtMakara Sankranti ,month of Pousa (December-January)Tusu symbolized in small clay figurines or sometimes merely as cow-dung balls. After a sacred bath they return to worship and make offerings of rice to the deity.
Santhal DanceJharkhand districtThis tribal community has immense solidarity and a good cultural lineage. The members of this tribe are mainly the devotees of the deity called `Thakurji`, whom, they believe, had formed this world.
Lathi DanceWest BengalMuslim festival of MuharramA lathi used in the Lathi dance is basically of a 6 to 8 foot long bamboo stick sometimes tipped with a metal blunt and it is used like a sword by swinging it back and forth like a sword.
The Raibense DanceBirbhium districtThe dances of the Raibenshes of Burdwan and Birbhum seem to be the last surviving vestiges of war-like traditions.
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2 Responses to List of Indian Folk Dances

  1. KULDEEP SINGH August 29, 2011 at 8:21 pm #

    Sir / Ma’m

    List under this page is not completely open, All States with their Dances are not Shown.

    http://pedia.desibantu.com/indian-folk-dances

    Please ! Check..

  2. Melvin Sherer October 11, 2019 at 11:59 pm #

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