Indian Folk Dance

1. Bhangra (Punjab)

• Origin: Punjab, North India
• Description: Bhangra is an energetic and lively dance traditionally associated with the harvest festival of Baisakhi. Dancers, typically men, perform with vigorous movements, often accompanied by the beats of the dhol (a type of drum). The dance reflects the joy and enthusiasm of the people of Punjab.
• Costume: Bright and colorful outfits with turbans and tunics.

2. Garba (Gujarat)

• Origin: Gujarat, West India
• Description: Garba is performed during the nine-night festival of Navratri. Women traditionally dance in a circle around a lamp or an image of Goddess Durga. The dance involves intricate footwork and hand movements.
• Costume: Women wear vibrant chaniya cholis (a three-piece outfit), and men wear kediyas (a short kurta) with dhotis.

3. Ghoomar (Rajasthan)

• Origin: Rajasthan, North-West India
• Description: Ghoomar is a graceful dance performed by women in Rajasthan. The dance is known for its twirling movements, as the women swirl in circles while their long skirts (ghagras) flow gracefully. It is performed on various occasions like weddings and festivals.
• Costume: Women wear traditional ghagras with heavy jewelry.

4. Dandiya Raas (Gujarat)

• Origin: Gujarat, West India
• Description: Dandiya Raas is another popular dance form from Gujarat, performed during Navratri. Dancers use wooden sticks (dandiyas) to perform coordinated rhythmic strikes. The dance is usually performed in pairs.
• Costume: Similar to Garba, with women in chaniya cholis and men in kediyas.

5. Lavani (Maharashtra)

• Origin: Maharashtra, West India
• Description: Lavani is a traditional dance form known for its powerful rhythm and sensuous movements. It is often performed to the beats of the dholki drum and involves expressive gestures. Lavani is famous for its portrayal in Marathi cinema.
• Costume: Women wear nine-yard saris called nauvari, draped in a style that allows for free movement.

6. Bihu (Assam)

• Origin: Assam, North-East India
• Description: Bihu is the traditional folk dance of Assam, performed during the Bihu festival, which marks the Assamese New Year. The dance is energetic and is performed by both men and women. It involves quick hand movements and footwork, reflecting the joy of the harvest season.
• Costume: Women wear mekhela chador (traditional Assamese attire), and men wear dhotis with gamocha (a traditional towel).

7. Chhau (West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand)

• Origin: West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand, East India
• Description: Chhau is a tribal martial dance that combines elements of dance and martial arts. It is known for its vigorous movements, acrobatics, and the use of elaborate masks. The dance often depicts mythological themes and stories.
• Costume: Dancers wear traditional costumes along with colorful masks.

8. Kalbelia (Rajasthan)

• Origin: Rajasthan, North-West India
• Description: Kalbelia is a dance form performed by the Kalbelia tribe, traditionally known as snake charmers. The dance mimics the movements of a serpent and is performed by women to celebrate joyous occasions. It is characterized by fast, intricate footwork and swirling movements.
• Costume: Women wear black, heavily embroidered skirts and blouses.

9. Yakshagana (Karnataka)

• Origin: Karnataka, South India
• Description: Yakshagana is a traditional theater form that combines dance, music, and dialogue. It is performed during the night and depicts stories from Hindu epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana. The dance is known for its elaborate costumes, headgear, and makeup.
• Costume: Performers wear heavy makeup, colorful costumes, and large headgear.

10. Raas Leela (Manipur)

• Origin: Manipur, North-East India
• Description: Raas Leela is a classical dance form that narrates the love story of Lord Krishna and Radha. It is performed with graceful movements and is often accompanied by devotional songs and classical music.
• Costume: Performers wear traditional Manipuri attire, with women in phaneks (sarong-like skirts) and men in dhotis.