Rhythms of tradition: Timeless essence of Indian folk dances

Folk dances that keep India’s spirit alive

In India, dance is an art form that thrives on a balance of expressions, gestures, movements, and rhythms, whether contemporary or classical. However, as the country navigates a cultural clash between these styles, some folk dances have stood the test of time due to their unique features and rich heritage. Here are five that continue to thrive even today.

If music is the soul of art, dance is its complementary expression. However, dance has its own identity and is considered one of the toughest art forms, requiring a balance of gestures, expressions and rhythms. One imbalance can break the momentum, especially in Indian dance forms.

With a blend of graceful movements, expressive gestures and immersive storytelling, Indian dance forms, like their counterparts in music and art, are more than just hobbies to be pursued in our free time.

For centuries, Indian dance with its meticulous and expressive body movements has served as a custodian of the country’s spiritual and cultural fabric. Whether classical, contemporary, or folk, dance provides an outlet for deep and evocative self-expression.

As India navigates between the popularity of classical and contemporary dance forms, a third category often remains in the background, folk dance.

Characterised by vibrant costumes, lively music, and storytelling performances, folk dances across India continue to thrive despite evolving times and the ongoing debate between classical and contemporary styles.

To celebrate the richness of folk dance, here are five traditional dance forms that have stood the test of time!

Chhau, West Bengal

The eastern state of West Bengal is known for its grand celebrations of Durga Puja, which commemorates the victory of good over evil and marks Mahishasura’s defeat at the hands of Goddess Durga. A famous dance, known as Dhunuchi dance is performed as an expression of devotion, which over time has come to be associated with the state.

However, another form of dance, Chhau dance has been relegated to background.

Originating from West Bengal’s Purulia district, Chhau derives its name from the Sanskrit word ‘Chhaya,’ meaning mask or shadow. True to its name, this dance is performed while wearing large, elaborate, and colorful masks. These masks intricately crafted by a few families in Charida, showcase the fusion of art and dance. They are made using a meticulous combination of paper, clay, and traditional painting techniques.

Performed during the festival of Chaitra Parva (spring festival), this dance form, with its acrobatic movements accompanied by traditional instruments like the dhol (drum) and flute, is usually based on themes of mythology, local folklore, and abstract ideas.

Hence, with its raw energy and deep roots in martial traditions, this dynamic dance form was honoured with a geographical indication (GI) tag by the Government of India in 2018, cementing its legacy. This recognition not only preserved its cultural essence but also firmly placed this vibrant folk dance on the global map.

Sattriya, Assam

 

Meanwhile, in northeastern India, along the banks of the Brahmaputra River, another lesser-known dance form thrives in Assam, not Bihu, but Sattriya dance.

Consisting of a combination of music, dance and drama. This dance form emerged in the medieval period in Assam during the 15^th century.

Deriving its identity from the neo-Vaishnavite Bhakti movement, spearheaded by the visionary Srimanta Shankardev, this dance form is characterised by its fluid grace, intricate footwork and deeply expressive hand gestures, each movement echoing the devotion and spiritual essence of its origins.

Despite being governed by the strict principles of hasta mudras (hand gestures involving specific finger and palm positions), Aharya (makeup, costumes and other visual elements), and music, Sattriya dance uniquely utilises a blend of music, dance, and instruments to bring its performances to life.

Reflecting its storytelling essence, this dance form typically explores themes of spirituality, divine love, and devotion, primarily focusing on the relationship between Lord Krishna and Radha.

Ghoomar, Rajasthan

Owing to its origins in the Marwar region, the term ‘Ghoomar’ is derived from the word ‘ghoomna,’ which means twirling. True to its name, performers move gracefully in wide circular patterns, creating mesmerising visuals. This dance form is one of the most popular traditional dances of Rajasthan.

Originally performed by the Bhil community in devotion to Goddess Saraswati, Ghoomar is now primarily performed by women dressed in vibrant traditional attire. It is a significant part of festivals, weddings, and cultural celebrations.

The dance is usually accompanied by musical instruments like the dhol, drums, and thali. In many rajasthani traditions, newly married women perform Ghoomar upon entering their husband’s homes symbolising their transition into womanhood.

The popularity of this folk dance is so immense that it was featured in the 2018 historical drama Padmaavat, with an entire song dedicated to showcasing this iconic rajasthani tradition.

Lavani, Maharashtra

While dances like Ghoomar and Sattriya emphasise body movements, Lavani is entirely focused on celebrating a woman’s beauty. Derived from lavanya, the Sanskrit word for “beauty,” Lavani is a dynamic blend of song and dance, performed in Maharashtra and the Konkan region.

Known for its powerful rhythm, Lavani is set to the beats of the dholki, with women dressed in vibrant nine-yard sarees and ghungroos, performing before live audiences. Originating as a morale booster for warring troops in the 18th and 19th centuries, it peaked in popularity during the Peshwa dynasty, often exploring themes of politics, religion, and romance in an engaging manner.

But, the dance’s Shringarik (erotic) component has long been controversial. Even today, debates continue, most recently, NCP leader Ajit Pawar urged party members to avoid organising Lavani performances after dancer Megha Ghadge raised concerns about the distinction between traditional Lavani and obscene acts used to attract crowds.

Garba, Gujarat

As we conclude India’s folk dances journey, one that has gained nationwide popularity and attention is Garba.

Derived from garbh the Sanskrit word for “womb,” Garba is a devotional dance from Gujarat, performed around a central lamp or Goddess Shakti’s representation during Navratri.

During the festival, devotees move counterclockwise in a circle, clapping and singing, symbolising life’s eternal cycle of birth and death.

Beyond Gujarat, Garba thrives in cities like Indore, with vibrant events held at Dewas Naka and Sukhliya ground.

Thanks to diaspora communities and cultural organisations, it has become a global cultural symbol, celebrated in countries like the United States and the United Kingdom.

Recognising its growing influence, UNESCO declared Garba an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2023, further cementing its legacy.

These dances prove that movement itself can unite people, as intricate expressions and gestures convey deep emotions without words. Despite challenges in balancing rhythm, movement, and expression, folk dances stand as symbols of cultural preservation in India, showcasing how traditions endure when rooted in meaningful heritage.