Folk Dances of Indian States mark the intense platform encompassing creative extravaganza of different states of India. Each state of India has its own culture and tradition. The Folk Dances of Indian States tend to reveal that culture when they are performed in different occasions. There are several states with their several folk dance forms. Each has its own significance through which the image of the respective state can be visualized.Folk dances of Indian States form an integral part of mass culture. Indian folk dances are performed in groups in villagesand remote regions of the countryside, as an essential part of the local rituals and customs. Such dances are practiced during religious, social, cultural and seasonal festivals.
Origin of Folk Dances in Indian States
Folk Dances of Indian States got originated among the ordinary common mass of rural areas before 19th century from various rural areas. Primitive and undeveloped society witnessed the birth of dance either as a form of ritual or as an entertainment. These dance forms originated in the ancient time; later the waves of culture formulated and enhanced them.
Features of Folk Dances of Indian States
Folk Dances of Indian States are mostly group dances immensely popular among all classes. Participation of both male and female counterparts is seen and there are different styles in each dance form. On most of the occasions, the dancers sing while being accompanied by artists on musical instruments highlighting the bonding force. Every rural community is laden with its own folk dances performed on specific occasions such as the birth of a child, to celebrate the arrival of new seasons, weddings and festivals. During the performances, the dancers adorn themselves with their traditional costumes and ornaments.
Folk Dances of North Indian StatesDumhal is a folk dance performed in Jammu and Kashmir by the Rauf tribe. Only the men folk of the Rauf are privileged to perform this dance. Generally, this dance is performed by wearing long, colourful robes and tall, conical caps, studded with beads and shells. Nati is the most famous dance of Himachal Pradesh. This dance is listed in Guinness world record book as largest folk dance. It is mainly originated from Sirmaur district. Bhangra is the most popular folk dance of Punjab, which is performed with musical instruments like ‘tabla’, ‘dhola’, ‘chimta’ and others. Gorgeous and classical Punjabi costumes are clad by the local men and women and this dance is performed at weddings and social festivals. Barada Nati is the most popular folk dance of Uttarakhand, which is performed during any religious festival or any special occasion. Uttar Pradesh also has a rich culture which includes various folk dances and they are Raslila, Swang, Ramlila, Nautanki, Naqal and Qawwali. Ras Lila, Phag dance, Loor, Dhamal, Gugga, Jhumar, Khoria, Chatty, Sang, Chaupaiya, etc are the popular folk dances of Haryana which are performed in various celebrations.
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