In continuation of my article on ‘Dances of India’ with Folk Dances as its sub-section, I further explore the folk dances
of other states of our country, as
Folk Dances of Bihar:
The main folk dances of Bihar are:
Burra Rasa – It is a splendid mask dance, 5th in popularity after Kathak, Kathakali, Manipuri and Bharat Natyam. This dance style is woven around the myths, the history or the daily life activities. The Japanese ‘Noh’ has some points of resemblance with it.
Jata Jatin – This dance style is
performed by the women folk. Its gestures express an episode of love between a young man, Jata and a girl, Jatin. Other famous ones n this
category are Chhou, Sagar, Sarat, Sarp Narita and Jhujaiya.
Maghi Parva – This dance is performed as a prayer to God by the ‘how’ race of Bihar, to protect their property, for rains and to let them hunt safely.
Jadur – This dance is of oraon area. Jadur means spring. So it is performed when spring arrives. This dance resembles a wig wave forward and back as if eternally.
Sarhul – It is a spring dance, rather a summer dance of Mithula. Men and women perform it, without using any instruments. It is a custom to jump highly three times while dancing.
Karma – This is a rainy season folk dance, which is divided into a dance group and an accompaniment group. Both men and women dance leisurely in which, women use sticks. Ba Parva and Desau Parva forms of folk dance are also performed in a similar manner.
Folk Dances of U.P. :
The folk dances of U.P. revolve around the life of Lord Krishna and Radha. They resemble Kathak Dance style, which is classical in nature. The dances describe Lord Krishna’s childhood dalliance with Gopis and his passionate love for Radha.
Nautanki – This dance has a form of an opera, the religious myths of Kathak or stories are sung in the dance dramas.
Ahir Dance – This dance style has very queer costumes. The dancers put the costume fight on their whole body and wear small bells on the pants and belts, with ornaments on arms and neck. Sticks are also used. The dance expresses merrymaking.
Kahar Dance – The steps are very quick and fast as in Kathak style. The gestures are very interesting and highly expressive. Other dances of this category are Brata and Domes dances.
Jhora Natch – This is a recreational folk dance. The dancers form a circle with their hands and dance happily with simple steps. Nautchmali is another prevelant dance in the area.
Chhapali – The people living in Kumaon hills of Himalayas perform thie dance. Men and women dance in leisure.
Thora – This is a martial dance. The dancers brandish swords in their hands and perform the battle dance.
Katari and Jhula dance are also popular dances in this category. Indian culture is beautifully portrayed by such dances.