Folk Dances of India PDF

Download Testbook App Folk Dances Of India Art & UPSC Art and Culture Notes Culture Notes For UPSC - State-wise List Dance Forms in India: Classical and...

Download Testbook App Folk Dances Of India Art & UPSC Art and Culture Notes Culture Notes For UPSC - State-wise List Dance Forms in India: Classical and folk dance are the two most popular dance forms in India. The origin is the most significant distinction between Classical and Folk Dances. The Natya Shastra, in which the distinctive elements of each of the Classical dance forms are outlined, has a long history with classical dance. Folk dance, on the other hand, arose from the state's, ethnic, or geographic region's local tradition. The folk dances of India reflect the diversified culture and customs of the country. There are numerous types of folk dances which are practised in various parts of the country. 1. The folk dances are of great significance in India, particularly in the rural areas because they mostly express the daily work and rituals of the village community. 2. Most of the folk dances in the country have a unique costume and they vary according to the local tradition of that particular state. 3. The tribal folk dances of India are inspired by the tribal folklore which are either sung by the dancers or the onlookers. 4. These dances are usually performed during ceremonies such as Weddings, births, coronations, entering a new house or town, welcoming a guest, religious processions, harvest time and so on.  Download Testbook App Check the following article on Folk dances of India to know about the types of folk dances followed in various states of India. Since questions related to this topic are frequently asked in UPSC Civil Service Examination, it is very important for the aspirants to ace this topic. Also, study the highest peaks in states of India from here. Check out this UPSC IAS Foundation 2022 Live Coaching here. State-wise Folk Dances Of India Here is a list of state-wise folk dances of India: Andhra Pradesh: Some of the important folk dances of Andhra Pradesh are as follows, Bhamakalapam Andhra Natyam Dappu Vilasini Natyam Veera Natyam Dhimsa Gobbi Chiratala Bhajana Kolattam Tappeta Gundlu Lambadi Butta Bommalata Urumulu Chhadi Ghanta Mardala Ottam Thedal Andhra Pradesh, which is known for its rich culture, has a wide range of performing arts, particularly the folk dances. Lambadi folk dance is performed by the women belonging to Senegalese and Banjara tribes of the state. Veera natyam is one of the oldest folk dances of Andhra Pradesh and it is performed by the men of Veeramusti Community in the Saivite temples of Kurnool, Anantapur and Khammam districts. Tappeta Gundlu is another popular folk dance in the northern districts such as Srikakulam, Vizianagaram and Visakhapatnam. It is performed by the members of Yadava community in honour of their water deity, Gangamma. Folk dances such as Butta Bommalu and Veera Natyam are not accompanied by any singing whereas Kolatam, Tappeta Gundlu and Chiratala bhajana are a combination of dance and musical narration. Also read: NCERT Notes: Lion Capital and Sanchi Stupa here Arunachal Pradesh Some of the important folk dances of Arunachal Pradesh are as follows, Ponung Buiya Idu mishmi Page - 2  Download Testbook App Sadinuktso Khampti Wancho Pasi Kongki Buiya Chalo Bardo Chham Popir Ka Fifai Arunachal Pradesh has a very distinctive culture as it consists of around 26 tribal communities and dance and music holds a significant place in their life. Ponung folk dance is performed by the young girls and women of Adi tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. Since the tribe depends on agriculture for livelihood, they perform this dance to pray to God before the harvest period. Only one male takes part in the dance, he is called Miri and he plays the musical instrument, Yoksha. Sadinuktso is performed by the members of Akas tribe of Arunachal Pradesh in occasions such as marriages, construction of a new house and during the arrival of guests. Buiya folk dance, which is a joyful dance, is performed by the men and women of Digaru Mishmis tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. It is performed during the festivals such as Duiya, Tanuya, Tazampu and family gatherings. Chalo dance is a part of the Chalo Loku festival which is a famous festival of the state celebrated by the Nocte tribe. Wancho dance is another important folk dance of the state and it is part of the Oriah festival celebrated by the Wancho’s tribe. Popir dance is performed as a tribute to the goddess Mopin Ape. Assam Some of the important folk dances of Assam are as follows, Bihu Goalini Jhumura Hobjanai Bagurumba Bhortal Nritya Deodhani Zikirs Bichhua Canoe Kaaligopal Nat Puja Tabal Chongli The people of Assam are an intermixture of various racial stocks such as Aryan, IndoIranian, Mongoloid etc and thus the state is rich in culture and heritage. The most popular folk dance of the state is Bihu which is performed by the young boys and girls during the Bihu festival. Deodhani dance is performed as a tribute to the snake goddess, Manasa. The Jhumar dance is performed by the tea workers, also known as Adivasis of Assam. Bagurumba dance also known as the butterfly dance is performed by the Bodo community of Assam. Read about the important lakes of India from this list. Bihar Some of the important folk dances of Bihar are as follows, Panwariya Sama Chakwa Bidesiya Page - 3  Download Testbook App Jat-Jatin Bakho-Bakhain Domkach Fagua Jatra Paika The folk dances of Bihar mostly reflect the common life of people, their problems, sorrows and accomplishments. Musical instruments such as dholak, harmonium, tabla etc are used while performing some of the dances. The most famous folk-drama of Bihar is Bidesiya which is mainly a lyrical drama and is full of pains of separation. The Jat-Jatin dance is performed by the couples from Koshi and Mithila regions of the state.This dance beautifully portrays the relationship between the husband and wife. The Paika folk dance is famous in the Mayurbhanj region. Check out this NCERT For UPSC IAS Foundation Live Coaching Batch 3 here. Chhattisgarh Some of the important folk dances of Chhattisgarh are as follows, Panthi Gaur Maaria Goudi Raut Nacha Karma Mundari Dagla Pali Jhumar Navrani Tapali Saila Chhattisgarh is one of the most ancient states of India and has a rich heritage. Since a large number of tribes reside in the state, a variety of dance forms are found here. Most of the folk dances of Chhattisgarh are performed for denoting the change of seasons and in reverence for the gods. Panthi dance is one of the most vital folk dances and is considered as a prominent custom of the Satnami community of the state. Raut Nacha is performed by the Yadava cowboys of the state and is known as the cowherds folk dance. Soon after the reaping season, the young men of the state perform Saila dance. Apart from that, tribal groups such as Baigas, Gonds and Oraons of Chhattisgarh perform the Karma dance which denotes the end of stormy season and the beginning of spring season. Goa Some of the important folk dances of Goa are as follows, Dulpod Kunnbi-Geet Fugdi Mussoll Dhalo Amon Shigmo Tarangamel Goff Page - 4  Download Testbook App Musal Khel Dhangar Dashavatara Divlyan Nach Morulo Tonayamel Dekhni The folk dances of Goa reflect the rich historical and cultural legacy of the state. The Dhalo folk dance of Goa is performed by a group of rural women on special occasions and festivals. Kunnbi-Geet is one of the oldest folk dances and was named after the tribal group ‘kunbis’. Only the women dancers of Goa perform the Dekhni dance and this dance is accompanied by the songs. Musal Khel is a song cum dance which is done in praise of brave Hindu kings. Similar to Dhalo folk dance, the Fugdi dance is performed by women on Marathi and Konkani songs. A circular pattern is followed in the fugdi dance and is performed at a fast pace. Check the yearly review of art and culture 2020 from here. Gujarat Some of the important folk dances of Gujarat are as follows, Garba Tippani Juriun Dandiya Raas Bhavai Padhar dance In the state of Gujarat, people perform various traditional folk dances based on their culture and traditions. The most popular folk dance of Gujarat is Dandiya raas in which men and women stage mock- fights between the Goddess Durga and the demon-king Mahishasura. Garba dance is performed by both men and women around a lamp or Goddess Shakti and it is mostly performed during the Navratri festival. The Padhar dance is performed by the members of the Padhar community of Gujarat. Tippani Juriun is a prominent folk dance in the Chorwad district of Gujarat and it is one of the vigorous dance forms of the state. Haryana Some of the important folk dances of Haryana are as follows, Khoria Raas Leela Saang Jhumar Chhathi Dhamal Gugga Gagor Loor Khoria Teej dance Phag Daph Page - 5  Download Testbook App Dance is known as Naach in Haryana. The rich folklore and tradition of the state is showcased by the folk dances. Farmers of the state organise various folk dances before and after the harvest seasons. During the months of February and March, Phag dance is performed to celebrate the harvest of the farmers. Loor dance is very popular in the Bangar and Bagr regions of the state and it is performed by the girls during the holi festival. Similarly, Khoria dance is also performed exclusively by women and it is famous in central Haryana. Ras Leela dance is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is an extremely popular dance of the state. You might like to read: NCERT Notes: Later Mural Traditions For UPSC here Himachal Pradesh Some of the important folk dances of Himachal Pradesh are as follows, Jhali Chharhi Kinnauri Nati Mangen Jhainta Mahasu Dangi Jhora Dhaman Rakshasa Chhapeli Chamba Thali Stick dance Dangi dance of Himachal Pradesh is performed predominantly by the female dancers in Goddess Naina Devi temple during the harvest season. This dance is based on one of the oldest folklore of the state and consists of two themes. Nati dance consists of various forms which vary from region to region in the state. Kinnauri Nati is performed during the onset of new festivals, Kullu Nati is mostly performed during the Dussehra festival and the Shiv Badar Nati is performed during Shivaratri. The Rakshasa (demon) dance of Himachal Pradesh is more or less similar to the Bhangra dance of Punjab. Performers of this dance wear demon masks and represent the attack of demons on the crops cultivated. Study the list of famous sites in India from here. Jharkhand Some of the important folk dances of Jharkhand are as follows, Sohrai Munda Danga Jat-Jatin Chhou Bidesia Karma Sarahul Santhal Hunta Paika The folk and tribal dances of the state Jharkhand, expresses the vibrant and rich culture of the state. Page - 6  Download Testbook App The Santhal dance is performed by the men and women of the Santhal tribe and is one of the best tribal folk dances of India.This dance is accompanied with folk music. Hunta is also performed by the Santhal tribe but only males perform this dance. Paika dance of the state involves a high degree of martial arts and is performed by the males. The Chhou dance is famous in the tribal areas of Jharkhand and in some parts of Chhattisgarh and Odisha. Karnataka Some of the important folk dances of Karnataka are as follows, Bayalatta Veeragase Dollu Kunitha Huttar Lambi Suggi Kunitha Karga Yakshagana Bhootha Aradhane Dollu Kunitha is the popular drum dance of Karnataka and it is performed by the men of the shepherd community called Kuruba. This dance is accompanied by songs. Puja Kunitha is another famous ritualistic folk dance of Karnataka. Yakshagana folk dance is a combination of dance and play and takes place during the winter harvests. Suggi Kunitha is performed by the men of the farmer community during the harvest seasons. Kerala Some of the important folk dances of Kerala are as follows, Koodiyattam Theyyam Thirayattam Oppana Kaikottikali Thiruvathirakali Chakyar Koothu Thidambu Nritham Chavittu Nadakam Padayani Ottamthullal Kerala, also known as God’s own country, has several folk dances and are performed by the people during events and festivals. Most of the folk dances of the state are a fusion of elegant body movements and music. Thiruvathirakali dance is performed by a group of women during the Onam festival. It is performed in a circular pattern along with singing and clapping around a lamp or floral decoration. Koodiyattam is a famous and one of the oldest folk dances of Kerala and is performed in the temples. The Muslim community of the state performs the Oppana dance during weddings and other festivals of muslims. In the Ottamthullal dance, the dancer narrates the story based on mythology. It is a group dance and performers wear vibrant costumes. Chakyar Koothu is an ancient folk dance of Kerala in which the scenes from Mahabharata and Ramayana are narrated by the dancer. Page - 7  Download Testbook App Read about the handloom and handicrafts of India from here. Madhya Pradesh Some of the important folk dances of Madhya Pradesh are as follows, Jawara Grida dance Maanch Tertali Charkula Phulpati dance Matki dance Selalarki Selabhadoni Madhya Pradesh is home to various tribal communities of India. This contributes to the rich cultural saga of the state. Jawara folk dance is performed by the people of Bundelkhand region to celebrate prosperity. Tertali dance is performed by the Kamar tribe of Madhya Pradesh. Matki dance is the solo dance of the Malwa region and is performed by the members of Ahir and Gadariya communities of the state. The Baiga tribe performs Pardhoni dance during the marriage occasions and the Kanwar tribe performs bar dance. Maharashtra Some of the important folk dances of Maharashtra are as follows, Gafa Koli Naakata Lavani Tamasha Powada Gouricha Mauni Dahikala Dashavatar Lezim Dhangari Gaja Lavani is the most prominent folk dance of Maharashtra and is performed by the women to the beats of dholak. Tamasha dance is a combination of romantic music and the lavani dance. This dance is prevalent in the Konkan region. The fishermen (both men and women) of Koli district of Maharashtra perform the Koli dance which symbolises the lives of the fishermen. Dhangari Gaja is also a famous folk dance of Maharashtra and is performed by the shepherd community called Dhangars of Solapur district. Lezim or lazium is another popular folk dance of Maharashtra where dancers carry a small musical instrument with jingling cymbals called the Lezim. There are at least 20 dancers in lezim. A drum instrument is used as the main percussion music. Powada is a dance form that shows the life and achievements of the greatest Maratha ruler, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It is usually of a narrative style. Manipur Some of the important folk dances of Manipur are as follows, Page - 8  Download Testbook App Thang Ta Nat Rash Maha Raash Rakhal Dhol Cholom Lai Haraoba The Thang Ta dance, also known as the art of sword and spear, consists of a wide range of martial arts weaponry in their performance. Lai Haraoba is performed by the members of the Meitei community of Manipur. One of the renowned dance forms of Manipur is the Dhol cholom which is also known as the drum dance. This dance is mostly performed during the holi festival. Folk dances such as Salin Lam, Dar Lam, Waikep Lam and son on are some of the familiar dances performed by the Kom tribe of Manipur. Study about the list of ancient Indian scripts from here. Meghalaya Some of the important folk dances of Meghalaya are as follows, Baala Nongkrem Laho Ka Shad Suk Mynsiem Lahoo Behdienkhlam Folk dance is one of the essential components of the culture in the North Eastern state Meghalaya. Khasi is the majority tribe of the state and their most important dance is Nongkrem dance. It is a thanksgiving dance to the heavenly deities for good harvest, harmony and prosperity. Shad Suk Mynsiem is also another thanksgiving dance performed by the people of Khasi hills. The Lahoo dance is performed by the Jaintia tribe and the Wangla dance by the Garo tribes of the state. The Jaintias celebrate the Behdienkhlam dance festival annually in the month of July. Mizoram Some of the important folk dances of Mizoram are as follows, Cheraw Cherokan Khuallam Zangtalam Pakhupila Khanatm Chailam Sarlamkai Mizoram has several folk dances which reflect the lifestyle and vibrant spirit of the locals. The Cheraw dance which is also known as the bamboo dance is the most prominent, traditional and distinct dance of Mizos. It is performed by using long bamboo staves and are accompanied by drums and gangs. The Khuallam dance is performed by the guests who are invited from other states. While dancing, the performer sways the traditional mizo cloth wrapped around his/her shoulder. Sarlamkai dance is performed during the celebration of victory in the battle. The men swing the shields and swords held by them in accordance to the rhythm. Page - 9  Download Testbook App During the Chapar Kut festival, Mizos perform Chailam folk dance. Know more about NCERT Notes: Arts of Indus Valley for UPSC IAS here. Nagaland Some of the important folk dances of Nagaland are as follows, Nuralim Changsang Chang Lo Khaiva Bamboo Dance Rangma Zeliang Monyu Asho Melo Phita Akok-khi Khupielili Rukhyo-sharu Music and dance plays a very important role in the Naga culture and any event won’t conclude without folk dance. There are several tribes in the state each having their own culture, dance forms and languages. The Changsang dance is performed by the Chang tribe in praise of the birth-place of mankind and the earth during Naknyulum festivals. The Angami Nagas perform the Melo Phita dance during the sekrenyi festival by dressing in full traditional attire. The Rukhyo-Sharu dance is performed by the Lotha tribe and the Akok-Khi is performed by the Snagtam tribe of the state. The Pochury tribe of Nagaland consider the Khupielili dance as an integral part of the Nazu festival. The Zeliang tribe performs butterfly dance, the Nagas perform Kuki dance which is also known as bamboo dance and the Rengma tribe performs the Rengma dance. Odisha Some of the important folk dances of Odisha are as follows, Ruk Mar Nacha Dalkhai dance Ghumura Paika Bagha Nacha Goti Pua Munari Danda Nata Medha Nacha Odisha is known for the rich heritage of music and dance in India. The most ancient folk dance of the state is Danda Nata in which the devotees physically torture their body to appease Lord Shiva and is mostly performed in the Ganjam district of Odisha. Medha Nacha is a mask dance performed in the coastal districts of Odisha. Gotipua dance is performed by the young boys aged between 6 to 14 years by dressing like a girl. It is popular in the Raghurajpur village in Odisha. Bagha Nacha, also known as tiger dane, is another famous dance of the state and is performed during the Chaitra of the year. It is performed by male dancers who paint their body like tigers. Paika dance is an energetic dance performed by the young boys and men. An entire battle scene is enacted through this dance. Ghumura dance is famous in Kalahandi district of Odisha. The Ghumura dancers have a drum attached to their neck and they play drums while dancing. Page - 10  Download Testbook App Punjab Some of the important folk dances of Punjab are as follows, Bhangra Dhaman Giddha Daff Jhoomer Kikkli Dandass Jindua Malwai Giddha Most of the folk dances of Punjab such as bhangra, dandass are very popular throughout the country. The exuberance and enthusiasm of the people of Punjab are displayed strongly in their folk dances. Bhangra is the most popular and the oldest folk dance of the state. Initially it was performed during the Vaisakhi festival and now it is performed on all important occasions. The vigor and vitality of the Punjabi women is displayed in the Giddha folk dance which is performed by a group of women wearing colourful traditional costumes. Kikkli dance is performed by two young girls who hold each other’s hand and twirl. The Jhoomer dance, referred to as the ecstasy dance, is a rhythmic and slow dance and is performed on themes such as love and other emotions. The Malwai Giddha dance is mostly performed by bachelors and a wide range of musical instruments are employed in this dance. Rajasthan Some of the important folk dances of Rajasthan are as follows, Ghoomar Jhulan Leela Chari Ghapal Suisini Ganagor Jhuma Bhavai Ganagor Panihari Kalbeliya The ancient customs and traditions of Rajasthan are showcased well in their colourful folk music and dances. Ghoomar dance is the most popular folk dance of the state as well as the country. It was introduced by the Bhil tribe and was later adopted by the royal communities of the state. It is performed by women on special occasions. The Bhavai dance is performed by the women belonging to Jat, Meena, Bhil, Kalbelia and Kumhar tribes of Rajasthan. They are accompanied by the male dancers who sing and play instruments. Chari dance which symbolises joy and ritual of collecting water in pot (chari) is performed by the women belonging to the Saini community of Ajmer and the Gujjar community of Kishangarh. Kalbeliya dance is performed by the women of the namesake tribe to the music played by men. It is regarded as the Intangible heritage by UNESCO. Read the list of UNESCO World heritage sites in India from here. Page - 11  Download Testbook App Sikkim Some of the important folk dances of Sikkim are as follows, Singhi Chaam Sikmari Tashi Yangku Chu Faat Yak Chaam Each ethnic castes and tribes of the state have their own folk dances. The Singhi Chaam and Yak Chaam are Tibetan dance forms. While the former is linked to the five peaks of Mount Kanchenjunga which forms a snow lion image, the latter is performed as a tribute to the animal Yak, on which the people at higher altitudes depend for their survival. Chu-Faat is a famous folk dance of Sikkim and it is performed by the Lepcha community as a tribute to the snowy ranges of Mount Kanchenjunga. Tamil Nadu Some of the important folk dances of Tamil Nadu are as follows, Kummi Kavadiyattam Devarattam Kolattam Karakattam Mayil attam Oyilattam Puliyattam Poikkal Kuthirai Attam Paampu attam Bommalattam Theru Koothu Karakattam is the most prominent folk dance of Tamil Nadu. It is dedicated to the Goddess Mariamman who is believed to bestow the earth with rains. It is performed during the Mulaipari festivals. Theru Koothu is performed in almost all the villages of the state and it is a combination of literature, music and dance/drama. Kavadi attam is dedicated to Lord Muruga on certain festive occasions and it is performed by carrying a long bamboo stick suspended with bamboo pails, on the shoulders and by singing the kavadi chindu. Poikkal Kuthirai attam also known as the dummy horse dance is the oldest folk dance of the state and it is performed as a tribute to the village guardian god, Ayyanar. Oyilattam is popular in southern Tamil Nadu and is performed in districts such as Madurai, Tirunelveli, Trichy etc. Telangana Some of the important folk dances of Telangana are as follows, Perini Shivatandavam Lambadi Dappu Dance Gussadi Oggu Katha Tholu Bommalata Page - 12  Download Testbook App Dappu dance, also known as Dappu Nrityam is a famous folk dance of the southern state of Telangana. It is mostly performed by the men in a group of 15 to 20 members and is performed in most of the festive occasions. Lambadi is the ancient folk dance of the state. It is performed by a group of women around the fire at night and rarely men participate in it. This dance is accompanied by the songs that are sung in different languages. Perini Shivatandavam is associated with Lord shiva and it is performed by the men in shiva temples. It originally belongs to the warrior clan of the 11th century AD. The Gussadi dance is performed by the Gondulu tribes of Adilabad district. Tripura Some of the important folk dances of Tripura are as follows, Hozagiri Jhum Maimita Masak Sumani Lebang boomani Bijhu dance Hai-Hak dance Wangala dance Padisha Gajan Garia Cheraw The culture of the Northern state Tripura, revolves around various festivals and celebrations which are marked by a number of dances and musics. Similar to other northeastern states, Tripura is a homeland to several tribal communities. Each of them have a special and unique folk dance. The Tripuris depend on Jhum (shifting) cultivation for livelihood and they perform the Garai dance as a tribute to the deity Goria for better harvest. This folk dance is widely performed by the members of Koloi, Jamatia and Tripuri communities. Before the onset of monsoon season, the Tripuris perform Lebang Boomani dance in which the tribal youth indulge themselves in catching the colourful insects called Lebang. The Hozagiri dance is performed by women belonging to the Reang community of the state. The Halam community of Tripura performs the Hai-Hak dance at the end of the harvesting season. The Wangala dance is performed in every house to celebrate the good harvest and it is a women folk dance. Study the list of important temples and monuments in India from the linked article. Uttar Pradesh Some of the important folk dances of Uttar Pradesh are as follows, Raas Leela Jaita Jhora Chappeli Charkula Kajra Nautanki Khyal Dadra Uttar Pradesh holds a great significance in Hindu Mythology and ancient cities such as Varanasi and Mathura are present in this state. It is known for the vibrant culture. Page - 13  Download Testbook App One of the most spectacular folk dances of the state is Charkula dance which is popular in the Braj region of Western Uttar Pradesh. It symbolizes the birth of Radha and it is usually performed on the third day of Holi. Similar to Charkula, Raas Leela is also famous in the Western Uttar Pradesh and the life tales of Lord Krishna are portrayed in this dance. Nautanki is a street play and it consists of folklore and mythological dramas which are blended with folk songs and dances. Uttarakhand Some of the important folk dances of Uttarakhand are as follows, Garhwali Jhora Langvir Nritya Kajari Barada Nati Ramola Bhotiya Chhapeli Pandav Nritya Choliya Like any other state, the locals of Uttarakhand express and celebrate their joys and sorrows through dances. Through the Pandav Nritya dance, various stages of the life of Pandava brothers are narrated along with the drum beats. The Choliya dance belongs to the Kumaoni tribal community of the state and it is an ancient sword dance which stages the martial art traditions of the tribe. Jhora dance is performed by the locals of the state while celebrating the onset of spring. Barada Nati is a famous folk dance of the state and is largely performed in the Jaunsar Bhawar area of Dehradun district. The Langvir Nritya is performed by the men and is popular in the Tehri Garhwal region of the state. Union Territory Of Jammu And Kashmir Some of the important folk dances of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir are as follows, Rouf Kud Dandi Naach Hikat Damali Mandjas Dumhal Kud Dogri Bacha Nagma The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is known not only for its scenic beauty but also for the traditional folk dances. Rouf dance is a famous and ancient folk dance which is performed on festive occasions such as Eid, Ramzan etc and also at the onset of spring. The Dumhal dance is performed by the males of Wattal community during special occasions. The Kud dance is performed in the villages of middle Himalayas during the night times under the stars. Bacha Nagma is another famous folk dance of Jammu and Kashmir. It is performed by young boys who are dressed in female attire and a group of men who sing Kashmiri and Sufi songs. Page - 14  Download Testbook App West Bengal Some of the important folk dances of West Bengal are as follows, Jatra Kathi Domni Dhali Alkap Santhali Marasia Gambhira Kalikapatadi Purulia Chhau Brita Tusa Purulia Chhau is one of the well known folk dances of West Bengal. The theme of this dance is taken from Ramayana and Mahabharata and it is a vigorous form of dance drama. Santhali dance is performed by the members of Santhal tribe and it is an integral part of all the festivals of that community. The Gambhira dance is performed by the worshippers of Lord Shiva and is considered to be the devotional dance. Brita or Vitra dance is an important dance of the state and is performed either by the women wishing for a grant or child or by the survivors of dangerous illness. Also, check the art and culture current affairs from here. Testbook is an ed-tech platform which is very helpful in the competitive exam preparation. At Testbook, aspirants can find mock tests, sectional tests, daily current affairs updates and much more which are beneficial for their preparation. By downloading the Testbook App, you can also get instant updates on exam notifications, vacancies etc. Download the Testbook app now. Also check related Art and Culture articles in the table below: Ancient artifact Hero stone unearthed Manipur Dance Bhaskarabda calendar National mission on cultural mapping Future-Proofing the Langa-Maniyar ASI to start repair of Safdarjung Tomb Classical Dance in India: The Natya Shastra is the source of classical dance. According to the ancient sources and historians, India has eight traditional dance genres. The Culture Ministry of India has added Chhau to the list of classical dances, bringing the total number of classical dance forms to nine. The following are the eight basic technicalities expressed in classical dance: Shringar: Love Hasya: Humorous Karuna: Sorrow Raudra: Anger Veer: Heroism Page - 15  Download Testbook App Bhayanak: Fear Bibhats: Disgust Adbhoot: Wonder Page - 16