Folk Dances of India, Complete State-Wise List

Folk Dances of India: India is home to many traditional dances passed down through generations. These dances are mainly of two types, i.e., classical and folk. Folk dances are simple and joyful, usually performed during weddings, festivals, and other celebrations. People dance together with songs and musical instruments, wearing colorful costumes and following unique rhythms and styles. These dances are not only a part of cultural celebrations but are also important topics 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.