Folk Dances of India, Complete State-Wise List

Folk Dances of India: India has many types of dances that have been passed down through generations. These dances can be grouped into two main categories: classical and folk dances. Folk dances are simple and are often performed during happy occasions like weddings and festivals. People sing and dance together, sometimes using instruments. Each dance has its own unique costume, rhythm, and style, and they are often very colorful and decorated. These dances are important for cultural celebrations and are often seen in exams like SSC, and Railway Exams.

Folk Dances of India

Folk Dances of India State Wise List

Some Importnant Folk Dances of India

Dumhal and Rouff of Jammu and Kashmir: Dumhal is a dance performed by men wearing long colorful robes and conical caps. They dance in circles around a banner dug into the ground during special occasions. Rouff, on the other hand, is a simple footwork dance performed by girls on festive occasions like Ramzan and Id.

Bhangra of Punjab: Bhangra is a popular dance performed during the harvest season. It involves energetic steps and is accompanied by traditional Punjabi music and instruments like Dhol and Chimta. Other folk dances like Jhummar and Sammi are also part of Bhangra.

Raas Leela of Uttar Pradesh: Raas Leela is a dance popular in Mathura and Vrindavan during Holi and Janmashtami. It depicts the divine love story of Lord Krishna and Radha. Kathak dance evolved from Raas Leela.

Garba of Gujarat: Garba is performed during the Navratri festival in Gujarat. It involves dancing around a clay lantern symbolizing the divine energy of Goddess Shakti. The dance is performed in circles representing the cycle of birth and death.

Ghoomar of Rajasthan: Ghoomar is a colorful folk dance of Rajasthan performed by women. It involves swirling movements displaying vibrant colors of their long skirts.

Bihu of Assam: Bihu is a lively folk dance of Assam performed by both men and women. It is characterized by brisk steps and rapid hand movements, accompanied by traditional instruments like Dhol and Pepa.

Lavani of Maharashtra: Lavani is a powerful folk dance of Maharashtra performed by females in nine-yard-long sarees. It is accompanied by rhythmic beats of the Dholki and contributes to Marathi folk theatre.

Ghumura of Odisha: Ghumura is a tribal-inspired dance of Odisha with roots in ancient war dances. It is characterized by heroic movements and expressions, depicted in sculptures at the Sun Temple, Konark.

Kathakali of Kerala: Kathakali is an ancient theatre form of Kerala combining dance, drama, music, and ritual. It is known for elaborate costumes, colorful makeup, and detailed gestures portraying various characters in storytelling performances.