Indian Dances : Folk Dances -Dandiya

Dandiya

This is a dance form from the desert state of Rajasthan and is another famous folk dance of India. A large group of dancers dance together holding long and slim sticks in their hands. These sticks are struck against each other and with the sticks of other dancers in rhythm. It is a joyous dance, with a lot of chanting and energy. The drummer stays in the center and plays a particular tune. This dance is mostly performed on ceremonial occasions like important festivals etc.

Dandiya Raas was performed by Lord Krishna, the Celestial Cowherd, with the Gopis or milkmaids. Each of the Gopis thought that Krishna was dancing with her alone, because he seemed to be everywhere at the same time.

While the Garba is performed by women in a circle, singing and clapping rhythmically as they worship the Goddess Amba, in Dandiya Raas, both men and women participate, moving in two circles in clockwise and anti-clockwise directions, clicking dandiya or wooden sticks with changing partners.

FOLK DANCES
	Bardo Chham		Dandiya
	Bhangra		Dumhal
	Bihu		Jawara
	Chhau		Garba

 

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