Folk Dances Of India: India is a country that is mainly identified for its rich culture and traditions. Dance is a part of life from ancient times to the most cultured communities. Indian Dance Forms are categorized into two categories i.e. classical and non-classical.
Indian folk and tribal dances are simple and are performed to express joy during the arrival of seasons, the birth of a child, weddings, and festivals. Folk art is the common possession of a group of people or a particular locality. The identity of the originators is forgotten, but the style is preserved down the ages. The India Folk Dance-related question is also often asked and this can also help you to score more marks. Candidates can check the below table and learn the dance forms according to the name of the state.
Indian Folk Dances with Their States
Check the state-wise dance forms tabulated below:
| State | Folk Dances |
|---|---|
| Maharashtra | Koli, Gafa, Gauricha, Tamasha, Dahikala, Pobada, Bohada, Mauni, Lalita, Lanvani, Lezim |
| Gujarat | Dandiya, Garba, Garadi, Rasila, Rasleela |
| Rajasthan | Ghoomar, Kalbeliya, TerahTali, Chari, Kathputli, Soochni, Chakri |
| Chhattisgarh | Karma, Raut Nach, Gedi, Panthi, Sua, Danda, Kakasar, DomaKach, Sarhul, Parghoni, Hulki, Bilma, Fag, Dussehra, Pandavani |
| Jammu and Kashmir | Mandjas, Rouf, Hikat |
| Punjab | Bhangra, Gidda |
| Uttar Pradesh | Kajri, Chachri, Jangar, Jaita, Dholak, Nautanki, Rasleela, Saang |
| Madhya Pradesh | Gonyo, Goundo, Chait, Chheria, Tapali, Dagla, Diwari, Narbani, Pali, Bilma, Bhagoria, Mandari, Reena, Sigmadia, Sua, Hulko, Hemdanna |
| Meghalaya | Bangla |
| Andhra Pradesh | Kumm, Ghantamardala, Batkamma, Madhuri, Mardala, Siddhi, Bhadrakali, Kaliyattam |
| Tamil Nadu | Karragam, Kavadi, Kolkattam, Pinnal Kolkattam |
| Kerala | Thiruvathirakali, Kathakali |
| Bihar | Karma, Ghumkoria, Keertaniya, Chakwa, Chhau, Jat-Jatni, Jadur, Jatra, Jaya, Jheeka, Danga, Panwariya, Barbo-Barwahan, Baima, Magha, Madhi, Mujhri, Vidapat, Videshiya Soharai |
| West Bengal | Kathi, Keertan, Gambhira, Jatra, Dhali, Baul, Marsiya, Ramvesh |
| Arunachal Pradesh | Mukhota Nritya, Yuddha Nritya |
| Assam | Ankia Nat, Kaligopal, Jhumura, Tabal Chongbi, Natpuja, Bihu Nritya, Bugurumba, Boisaju, Maharas, Hobizanai |
| Odisha | Garuda Vahana, Ghumura, Changunata, Jhadur Mudari, Paika, Sancha, Savari |
| Goa | Khol, Jhagor, Dekhni |
| Manipur | Thalam, Thang-Ta, Nata-Ras, Pungcholom, Basantaras, Rakhhal |
| Nagaland | Kuminaga, Khaiwa, Chong, Nuralim |
| Mizoram | Cherawkan, Pakhupila |
| Lakshadweep | Pricakli |
| Haryana | Saang, Dhamal, Lur, Phag, Daf |
| Jharkhand | Jhumair, Domkach, Karma, Chhau Nritya, Alkap |
| Uttarakhand | Pandav Nritya, Chholiya Nritya, Jhora-Chanchari, Hudka Baul |
Folk Dances Of Uttar Pradesh
“Nautanki Nritya” is a traditional folk dance form that is presented through verses, couplets, green songs, qawwali, ghazals, and more. It incorporates various elements such as singing, acting, and dancing, making it a multifaceted and interesting dance form. This dance is popular in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh in India and has been well-known since ancient times.
In Nautanki, a variety of sentiments or “rasas” are included, such as humor (hasya rasa) and heroism (veer rasa). The stories presented in Nautanki can be based on someone’s life. The duration of a Nautanki performance is relatively short, encompassing singing, dancing, and acting. Multiple musical and dance instruments are often used in Nautanki performances, adding to the overall experience.
Folk Dances Of Bihar
“Videshiya,” a folk dance performed in Bihar, is in the Bhojpuri language. It is highly popular in the rural areas of Bihar and is rich in entertainment value. Additionally, this dance carries a message of eliminating social evils.
Folk Dances Of Jammu and Kashmir
Rauf Dance – A popular folk dance in the region of Jammu and Kashmir in India, the Rauf dance is specifically performed to celebrate the harvesting season. This dance is primarily carried out by women.
Folk Dances Of Odisha
It is believed that the origin of Odissi dance can be traced back to the dance performed by devadasis (temple dancers) in temples. Odissi dance primarily narrates the stories of Lord Krishna and the incarnations of Lord Vishnu. The dance form also includes descriptions of Lord Jagannath. There are several archaeological pieces of evidence supporting the ancient roots of Odissi dance, making it an ancient art form. Hand gestures, known as “hasta mudras,” play a crucial role in Odissi dance.
Folk Dances Of Maharashtra
Tamasha – Tamasha is a traditional theatrical dance form performed in Maharashtra. While most folk dramas are dominated by male performers, Tamasha uniquely features women in the lead roles. It is a highly successful folk dance that utilizes instruments such as harmonium, ghungroo, manjira, etc. The presentation of Tamasha is often carried out by the Kolhati community.
Lavani – Lavani is the most popular dance form in Maharashtra. Its popularity is evident from its inclusion in films as well. This dance is performed in traditional attire, with the main performer, known as the “nartaki,” wearing a nine-meter-long saree. Lavani dance encompasses both spiritual and romantic expressions, making it a rich and versatile art form.
Folk Dances Of Uttarakhand
Chholiya Dance – Chholiya is the most renowned folk dance performed in Uttarakhand. It is believed that the history of Chholiya folk dance in Uttarakhand dates back several decades. The tradition of this dance form in Uttarakhand began at a time when swordplay was a part of wedding ceremonies. Chholiya dance is specifically performed on the occasion of weddings. During the procession of the wedding party, some men, adorned in traditional attire, engage in this dance.
Folk Dances Of West Bengal
Chhau Dance – Chhau dance from West Bengal is a vibrant dance form enriched with music and songs. It is a powerful and dynamic dance with a distinct charm. Chhau dance is not only popular in West Bengal but is also performed in the states of Odisha and Bihar. In these regions, this dance is performed on various occasions, such as Sun worship ceremonies, depicting events from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The use of masks adds a special attraction to this dance form.
Jatra – Jatra is a traditional folk dance with theatrical elements. It incorporates not only acting but also singing, music, debates, and more. The history of Jatra in West Bengal is quite ancient.
