Detailed Summary of "Folk Dances of India: Unity in Diversity"

by Shovana Narayan
Overview and Purpose
"Folk Dances of India: Unity in Diversity" by Shovana Narayan is
a comprehensive exploration of the vast landscape of Indian
folk dance traditions. The book serves as an encyclopedia,
delving into the bewildering diversity of folk dances across
India, and examines their origins, themes, occasions,
formations, and the communities that sustain them. It goes
beyond mere descriptions to encapsulate the ethos,
motivations, and cultural significance behind these dances,
offering readers a deep understanding of how dance is woven
into the fabric of Indian life1248.
1. Introduction: The Mosaic of Indian Folk Dance
India's cultural landscape is characterized by extraordinary
diversity-of people, languages, faiths, and traditions. Dance, as
an integral part of Indian life, reflects this diversity in its myriad
folk forms. The book opens by situating folk dance within the
broader context of Indian society, emphasizing its role as both a
celebration and a mode of expression for communities across
the country. Folk dances are not limited to rural or tribal
settings; they are performed by common people in both urban
and rural areas, making them a living, evolving tradition1.
2. Origins and Ethos of Folk Dances
The origins of many Indian folk dances can be traced back to
prehistoric times. These dances have evolved organically,
shaped by the socio-economic conditions, beliefs, and
celebrations of the communities that practice them. Unlike
classical dances, which are codified and often require formal
training, folk dances are spontaneous, passed down orally from
generation to generation57. They are deeply connected to the
rhythms of daily life, agricultural cycles, and religious festivals.
3. Themes and Occasions
Folk dances are performed on a wide range of occasions:
harvests, weddings, festivals, the birth of a child, or to mark
victories and communal achievements. The book discusses how
each dance form is closely tied to the life and livelihood of the
community-be it agricultural, pastoral, or tribal. For example,
Bihu from Assam celebrates the harvest, while Garba from
Gujarat is performed during Navratri1359.
4. Diversity by Region and Community
The book provides a state-wise and community-wise survey of
folk dances, highlighting the unique features of each region:
 Northern India: Bhangra and Giddha (Punjab), Nati
(Himachal Pradesh), Rouf (Jammu & Kashmir)
 Western India: Garba and Dandiya (Gujarat), Lavani
(Maharashtra), Ghoomar (Rajasthan)
  Eastern India: Bihu (Assam), Chhau (Jharkhand, Odisha,
West Bengal), Jhumur (West Bengal)
 Southern India: Yakshagana (Karnataka), Theyyam (Kerala),
Kolattam (Andhra Pradesh)
 Central India: Karma (Chhattisgarh), Saila (Madhya
Pradesh)
 Tribal Dances: The book gives special attention to the
tribal belt, describing dances like Dhimsa (Andhra Pradesh)
and Gaur Maria (Chhattisgarh), which are performed by
indigenous communities and often serve ritualistic or
communal purposes1459.
Expanded Summary: Diversity by Region and Community in
Indian Folk Dances
Indian folk dances are a vivid reflection of the country’s
immense cultural, linguistic, and ethnic diversity. Each region
and community has developed its own unique dance forms,
shaped by local customs, geography, history, and social
structure. Here is an expanded exploration of this diversity,
highlighting key examples from across India:
Northern India
Punjab:
 Bhangra and Giddha are the most celebrated folk dances
of Punjab. Bhangra, traditionally performed by men, is
 associated with the harvest festival of Vaisakhi and is
characterized by energetic movements, vibrant costumes,
and rhythmic drum beats. Giddha, performed by women,
features graceful gestures and playful teasing songs. Other
dances include Dhaman, Jhoomer, Kikkli, Dandass, Jindua,
and Malwai Giddha25.
Himachal Pradesh:
 Dances like Nati, Jhora, Jhali, Chharhi, and Chhapeli are
integral to local festivals and social gatherings, often
performed in circular formations5.
Jammu & Kashmir:
 Rouf, Dumhal, and Hikat are prominent, with Rouf being
performed during Ramadan and other festive occasions,
and Dumhal by men of the Wattal tribe5.
Western India
Rajasthan:
 Known for its colorful and expressive dances such as
Ghoomar, Jhulan Leela, Chari, Bhavai, Kalbeliya, and
Panihari. These dances often narrate stories of valor, love,
and devotion, and are performed during festivals and
social events25.
Gujarat:
  Garba and Dandiya Raas are iconic, performed during
Navratri with rhythmic clapping and sticks. Other forms
include Tippani Juriun and Bhavai, representing both
celebration and storytelling5.
Goa:
 Folk dances like Tarangamel, Koli, Dhalo, and Fugdi are
performed during religious festivals and community
celebrations, reflecting the coastal state’s blend of Hindu
and Christian traditions5.
Eastern India
Assam:
 Bihu is the most famous, marking the Assamese New Year
and harvest. It is characterized by brisk steps, rapid hand
movements, and joyful music. Other dances include
Bagurumba and Naga dance5.
West Bengal:
 Chhau (shared with Jharkhand and Odisha), Jhumur, and
Baul are prominent. Chhau is known for its martial origins
and use of masks, while Baul is associated with mystic
minstrelsy5.
Odisha:
  Savari, Ghumara, and Painka are among the folk dances,
each linked to tribal communities and local legends5.
Southern India
Tamil Nadu:
 A rich variety includes Kummi, Kavadiyattam, Devarattam,
Kolattam, Karakattam, Mayil Attam, Oyilattam, Puliyattam,
Poikkal Kuthirai Attam, Paampu Attam, Bommalattam, and
Theru Koothu. These dances are performed during temple
festivals, harvests, and social gatherings, often involving
elaborate costumes and storytelling25.
Andhra Pradesh & Telangana:
 Dances like Dhimsa, Veeranatyam, Lambadi, Kolannalu,
and Perini Sivatandavam are performed by tribal and rural
communities, each with distinct rhythms and themes5.
Karnataka:
 Yakshagana, a dance-drama, blends dance, music, and
dialogue, while other folk forms like Dollu Kunitha are
performed by the shepherd community5.
Central India
Chhattisgarh:
 The state is renowned for its tribal dances such as Panthi,
Raut Nacha, Karma, Pandavani, Suwa, Saila, Gendi, Kaksar,
 Cherchera, and Khada Nacha. Each dance serves different
purposes: Panthi is ritualistic; Raut Nacha involves animal
imitation; Karma is a group dance for prosperity; Saila is
performed during harvest; and Pandavani narrates epic
tales through song and movement10.
Madhya Pradesh:
 Karma and Saila are also performed here, especially by the
Gond and Baiga tribes, often associated with fertility rituals
and harvest celebrations811.
Northeastern India
Sikkim:
 Dances like Singhi Chaam, Sikmari, Tashi Yangku, Chu Faat,
and Yak Chaam are performed by various ethnic groups,
each with its own mythological and seasonal
significance25.
Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Tripura:
 Each state boasts unique dances such as Ponung, Wancho,
Rengma, Cheraw (bamboo dance), Nongkrem, and
Hojagiri, reflecting the region’s tribal heritage and
festivals5.
Community and Tribal Dances
Tribal communities across India have developed dances that are
deeply intertwined with their rituals, agricultural cycles, and
social structures. For example:
 The Gaur Maria dance of Chhattisgarh celebrates hunting
and is performed with elaborate headgear and rhythmic
drumming10.
 Karma dance, widespread in Central India, is performed
during the Karma Puja to honor the deity Karma Dev and
seek blessings for health and prosperity. Dancers move in
circles around a symbolic tree, accompanied by traditional
instruments and songs, with variations across tribes and
regions8911.
Conclusion
The diversity of Indian folk dances is remarkable, with each
state and community nurturing its own traditions. These dances
are living expressions of local identity, history, and collective
memory, performed on occasions ranging from religious
festivals to social milestones. They embody the unity in diversity
that defines Indian culture, serving as a bridge between
generations and a celebration of life in all its forms2510.
Citations:
1. https://www.iasgyan.in/blogs/folk-dances-of-india-
through-map
 2. https://testbook.com/ias-preparation/folk-dances-of-india
3. https://www.pinterest.com/pin/map-of-dances-of-india--
635218722421873264/
4. https://uploads.iasscore.in/pdf/
FACT_FILE_DANCE_OF_INDIA.pdf
5. https://www.examstocks.com/folk-dances-of-india/
6. https://www.orchidsinternationalschool.com/blog/
famous-folk-dance-of-chhattisgarh
7. https://www.memeraki.com/blogs/posts/mapping-indias-
folk-music-styles
8. https://www.culturalindia.net/indian-dance/folk-dances/
central-india.html
9. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9QSIEoQmSU
10. https://testbook.com/chhattisgarh-gk/folk-dances-of-
chhattisgarh
11. https://www.webindia123.com/madhya/arts/
folkdance1.htm

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5. Folk Theatre and Dance

Many folk dances are intertwined with folk theatre traditions,
where dance, music, and drama blend seamlessly. Forms like
Nautanki, Tamasha, and Bhavai are discussed, illustrating how
dance is used to narrate stories, enact myths, and convey moral
lessons to the community1.
6. Formations, Patterns, and Martial Arts
The book analyzes the formations and patterns characteristic of
different folk dances-circular, linear, or serpentine. It also
explores the martial aspect of some dances, such as
Kalaripayattu (Kerala) and Chhau (Eastern India), where dance
movements mimic combat techniques and serve as displays of
strength and valor1.
7. Costumes, Masks, and Puppetry
A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the visual and
material culture of folk dance:
 Costumes: Each dance form has distinctive costumes,
often crafted from locally available materials and adorned
with mirrors, beads, or embroidery. The attire reflects the
identity and aesthetics of the community.
 Masks: Used in dances like Theyyam and Chhau, masks
add an element of drama and symbolism, transforming
performers into deities, spirits, or mythological characters.
  Puppetry: The book discusses the close relationship
between dance and puppetry traditions, such as Kathputli
(Rajasthan), where puppets are manipulated to enact
dance sequences1.
8. Musical Instruments
Folk dances are accompanied by indigenous musical
instruments-drums, flutes, cymbals, and stringed instruments-
crafted from natural materials. Each region boasts its own
unique instruments, which set the rhythm and mood for the
dance. The book catalogs these instruments and explains their
significance in various dance forms16.
9. Social and Religious Significance
Folk dances are not merely entertainment; they are imbued
with social and religious meaning. They serve to reinforce
communal bonds, transmit oral traditions, and appease deities.
The book delves into the ritualistic aspects of dance, such as
invoking blessings, warding off evil, or celebrating fertility and
prosperity167.
10. Folk Dances as Living Traditions
The book emphasizes that folk dances are living traditions,
constantly adapting to changing times. While some forms have
been preserved in their original contexts, others have evolved
or been adapted for stage performances and festivals. The
resilience and adaptability of these dances are highlighted as a
testament to the enduring spirit of Indian culture157.
11. Challenges and Preservation
Shovana Narayan addresses the challenges faced by folk dance
traditions in the modern era-urbanization, migration, loss of
patronage, and the influence of popular culture. She advocates
for documentation, research, and active efforts to preserve and
promote these art forms, recognizing their value as intangible
cultural heritage1.
12. Author’s Perspective and Methodology
The author, a renowned classical dancer, candidly shares her
initial hesitation and subsequent fascination with the world of
folk dance. Her approach combines scholarly research with
personal exploration, lending the book both authority and
authenticity. She draws on her background in physics to bring
rationality and discipline to her study, while her artistic
sensibility ensures a nuanced appreciation of the subject1.
13. Conclusion: Unity in Diversity
The central theme of the book is encapsulated in its title-India’s
unity in diversity. Despite the staggering multiplicity of dance
forms, there is an underlying thread of shared cultural values,
communal celebration, and creative expression. Folk dances, in
their diversity, embody the spirit of India-a nation where
differences are not just tolerated but celebrated as sources of
strength and beauty139.
Significance and Contribution
"Folk Dances of India: Unity in Diversity" stands out as a
definitive reference for students, researchers, and enthusiasts
of Indian dance and culture. Its encyclopedic scope, combined
with accessible language and insightful analysis, makes it a
valuable resource for understanding the role of folk dance in
shaping and reflecting India’s collective identity1248.
Key Features Summarized
 Comprehensive coverage of folk dances across Indian
states and communities
 Discussion of occasions, themes, and social functions of
dances
 Analysis of formations, patterns, and martial elements
 Detailed sections on costumes, masks, puppetry, and
musical instruments
 Exploration of the relationship between dance, theatre,
and ritual
 Insights into the challenges of preservation and adaptation
 Emphasis on the unity underlying India’s cultural diversity
In essence, the book is both a celebration and a scholarly
documentation of India’s folk dance heritage, affirming that
the heart of India beats in rhythm with its countless dances-
each unique, yet all part of a vibrant, unified cultural tapestry.
Citations:
1. https://www.exoticindiaart.com/book/details/folk-dances-
of-india-unity-in-diversity-ham821/
2. https://gsl.lbsnaa.gov.in/cgi-bin/koha/opac-search.pl?q=su
%3A%22Indian+Audit+Account+Service%22
3. https://saiinternational.edu.in/celebrating-unity-in-
diversity-mesmerizing-folk-dance-extravaganza-by-class-iv/
4. https://gsl.lbsnaa.gov.in/cgi-bin/koha/opac-MARCdetail.pl?
biblionumber=346558
5. https://testbook.com/ias-preparation/folk-dances-of-india
6. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dance_in_India
7. https://www.clearias.com/folk-dances-of-india/
8. https://www.ibpbooks.com/books/performing-arts/
dance?p=sort_z-a&skip=12
9. https://www.rocksea.org/india-unity-in-diversity/3/

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Revised List of Major and Minor Folk Dances of Indian States
(with Briefs)
Below is a comprehensive, state-wise list of both major and
minor folk dances of India, each with a short description
highlighting its unique features, context, or significance1567.

Andhra Pradesh
 Vilasini Natyam: Temple dance tradition performed by
women, with roots in Devadasi culture.
 Andhra Natyam: Classical folk blend, performed at temples
and royal courts.
 Bhamakalpam: Dance-drama narrating stories of
Satyabhama, a consort of Krishna.
 Veeranatyam: Vigorous dance by men, associated with
Lord Shiva, involving fire and ritual implements.
 Dappu: Percussive dance using a tambourine-like
instrument, common at festivals.
 Tappeta Gullu: Energetic group dance with drums,
performed to invoke rain.
 Lambadi: Performed by the Lambadi tribe, featuring
colorful costumes and rhythmic movements.
  Dhimsa: Tribal dance of the Visakhapatnam region,
performed by women in circles.
 Kolattam: Stick dance by women, similar to Dandiya,
performed during festivals.
 Butta Bommalu: Dancers wear basket masks and depict
folk tales through movement.
Arunachal Pradesh
 Chham: Monastic mask dance of Buddhist tribes, depicting
victory of good over evil.
 Mukhauta Nritya: Mask dance performed during religious
festivals.
 Buiya: Performed by the Digaru Mishmi tribe, celebrating
community events.
 Chalo: Agricultural festival dance, performed for a good
harvest.
 Wancho: Dance of the Wancho tribe, reflecting warrior
traditions.
 Pasi Kongki: Dance of the Pasi community, performed
during social gatherings.
 Ponung: Group dance by women, accompanied by singing
and clapping.
  Popir: Performed by the Galo tribe, celebrating harvest
and social occasions.
 Bardo Chham: Masked dance of the Sherdukpen tribe,
depicting stories from local mythology.
Assam
 Bihu: Most famous Assamese dance, performed during the
Bihu festival to celebrate the New Year and harvest5.
 Bagurumba: Graceful dance of the Bodo tribe, inspired by
nature and butterflies.
 Jhumur: Performed by tea garden communities, marked by
rhythmic clapping and group formations5.
 Naga Dance: Performed by Naga tribes, showcasing war
and hunting traditions.
 Bichhua: Mimics the movements of a scorpion, performed
during social gatherings.
 Natpuja: Ritual dance performed to appease deities.
 Maharas: Dance-drama depicting stories from Krishna’s
life.
 Kaligopal: Depicts pastoral life and Krishna’s childhood.
Bihar
  Jata-Jatin: Narrative dance-drama about a couple’s
hardships, performed during monsoon.
 Bakho-Bakhain: Group dance by women, performed
during festivals.
 Panwariya: Celebrates the Panwariya festival, performed
by villagers.
 Sama-Chakwa: Performed by women during the Sama-
Chakwa festival, depicting tales of siblings.
 Bidesia: Folk theatre form, addressing social issues with
music and dance.
Chhattisgarh
 Gaur Maria: Tribal dance celebrating hunting, performed
with headgear and drums.
 Panthi: Performed by the Satnami community, expressing
religious devotion.
 Raut Nacha: Performed by the Yadava community during
Diwali, celebrating Krishna.
 Pandwani: Narrative dance-drama based on Mahabharata
stories.
 Karma: Performed during the Karma festival, celebrating
nature and fertility.
  Jhumar: Performed during harvest, marked by swaying
movements.
 Dagla, Pali, Tapali, Navrani, Diwari, Mundari: Various
tribal dances celebrating festivals, harvest, and local
legends.
Goa
 Fugdi: Performed by women during Ganesh Chaturthi,
involving fast-paced spinning.
 Dhalo: Ritual dance by women, performed at night for
family welfare.
 Kunbi: Traditional dance of the Kunbi tribe, reflecting
agrarian life.
 Dhangar: Shepherd community dance, performed to
appease deities.
 Mando: Slow dance with love songs, influenced by
Portuguese culture.
 Dekhni: Dance-drama depicting a devadasi’s life.
 Tarangamel: Colorful group dance during Holi.
 Shigmo: Spring festival dance, featuring processions and
folk music.
 Ghode Modni: Martial dance with horse costumes.
  Samayi Nrutya: Performed with lamps, celebrating
religious occasions.
Gujarat
 Garba: Circular dance performed by women during
Navratri, dedicated to Goddess Durga3.
 Dandiya Raas: Stick dance performed by men and women,
also during Navratri.
 Tippani: Dance by women using long sticks, originally
performed by laborers.
 Bhavai: Folk theatre involving balancing acts and
storytelling.
Haryana
 Jhumar: Slow, rhythmic dance performed during harvest.
 Phag: Celebratory dance during Holi, performed by men
and women.
 Daph: Performed with a large frame drum, during festivals.
 Dhamal: Energetic group dance by men, symbolizing valor.
 Loor: Performed by young girls during Holi, with playful
movements.
 Gugga: Ritual dance in honor of Gugga Pir, a folk deity.
Himachal Pradesh
  Jhora: Performed in circles during fairs and festivals.
 Jhali: Similar to Jhora but with faster movements.
 Chharhi: Performed with sticks, celebrating local deities.
 Dhaman: Ritual dance for rain and good harvest.
 Chhapeli: Graceful dance by women, accompanied by folk
songs.
 Nati: The most popular dance, performed in large groups
at celebrations.
 Dangi: Performed by the Dangi community, depicting rural
life.
Jharkhand
 Jhumar: Group dance during harvest, performed by men
and women.
 Paika: Martial dance, showcasing valor and agility.
 Chhau: Masked dance-drama with martial and
mythological themes5.
 Phagua: Performed during Holi, expressing joy and
festivity.
 Domkach: Wedding dance performed by women.
 Sohrai: Harvest dance, performed after the rice harvest.
 Mundari: Tribal dance of the Munda community.
Karnataka
 Yakshagana: Dance-drama with elaborate costumes,
enacting mythological stories.
 Huttari: Harvest dance performed by Kodava community.
 Suggi: Performed during the Suggi festival, celebrating
harvest.
 Kunitha: Ritualistic dance with religious significance.
 Karga: Performed by women balancing pots on their
heads.
 Lambi: Folk dance by the Lambani tribe, featuring colorful
attire.
Kerala
 Ottam Thullal: Solo dance with satirical themes and
expressive gestures.
 Kaikottikali: Group dance by women, performed during
Onam.
 Mohiniyattam: Graceful dance by women, narrating
mythological stories.
 Tappatikali: Performed with clapping and rhythmic
footwork.
 Kali Aattam: Enacts stories from local legends.
  Kummi: Circle dance with hand-clapping, performed at
festivals1.
 Theyyam: Ritual dance with elaborate makeup, honoring
deities5.
Madhya Pradesh
 Jawara: Celebrates a good harvest, performed with pots
balanced on heads.
 Matki: Women dance with earthen pots, often at
weddings.
 Aada: Performed by the Bhil tribe, celebrating community
events.
 Khada Nach: Martial dance by men, showcasing strength.
 Phulpati: Performed during festivals, involving floral
offerings.
 Grida: Performed during the rabi harvest, in three phases.
 Selalarki, Maanch: Folk theatre and dance forms depicting
social issues.
Maharashtra
 Lavani: Sensuous dance with powerful rhythm, performed
by women3.
  Koli: Dance of the fisherfolk, mimicking rowing and fishing
actions.
 Lezim: Performed with small musical instruments called
lezim.
 Tamasha: Folk theatre with dance, music, and satire.
 Dahikala: Performed during Janmashtami, involving
human pyramids.
 Powada: Ballad dance narrating heroic tales.
 Gondhal: Ritualistic dance performed to appease deities.
Manipur
 Thang Ta: Martial dance showcasing sword and spear
techniques.
 Lai Haraoba: Ritual dance celebrating local deities.
 Pung Cholom: Drum dance requiring skill and acrobatics.
 Raslila: Depicts the love of Radha and Krishna, with
graceful movements.
 Khamba Thoibi: Romantic dance-drama from Moirang
legend.
Meghalaya
 Laho: Group dance performed by men and women,
symbolizing harmony.
  Nongkrem: Ritual dance by the Khasi tribe, performed
during the Nongkrem festival.
 Shad Suk Mynsiem: Celebrates the arrival of spring,
performed by Khasi men and women.
Mizoram
 Cheraw: Bamboo dance, where dancers step between
moving bamboo poles5.
 Khuallam: Performed during festivals, symbolizing
community spirit.
 Chailam: Group dance during the Chapchar Kut festival.
 Sarlamkai: Martial dance, depicting war scenes.
 Chawnglaizawn: Performed by the Pawi tribe during
harvest.
Nagaland
 Bamboo Dance: Also known as Cheraw, performed with
bamboo poles.
 Temangnetin: Performed during tribal festivals.
 Hetaleulee: Dance of the Zeliang tribe, celebrating harvest.
 Rangma: Warrior dance, depicting battle scenes.
 Zeliang: Performed during the Zeliang festival.
  Leshalaptu: Traditional women’s dance, performed at
festivals and gatherings.
 Modse, Aaluyattu, Butterfly Dance, Khamba Lim: Various
tribal dances depicting nature, legends, and social themes.
Odisha
 Ghumura: Martial dance with distinctive drums,
performed by men.
 Ranappa: Acrobatics performed on stilts, accompanied by
music.
 Savari: Tribal dance celebrating hunting and harvest.
 Painka: Martial dance, performed with swords and shields.
 Munari: Performed during festivals by the Munari tribe.
 Chhau: Masked dance-drama, blending martial arts and
storytelling5.
Punjab
 Bhangra: Energetic harvest dance by men, with vigorous
movements3.
 Giddha: Female counterpart to Bhangra, with clapping and
teasing verses.
 Daff: Performed with a large frame drum during
celebrations.
  Dhaman: Group dance, performed during harvest.
 Bhand: Satirical dance-drama, with clown characters.
 Naqual: Mimicry dance, imitating animals and people.
Rajasthan
 Ghoomar: Graceful dance by women, characterized by
swirling movements3.
 Kalbeliya: Performed by the Kalbeliya tribe, mimicking
snake movements.
 Chakri: Fast spinning dance by women.
 Ganagor: Performed during the Gangaur festival,
celebrating womanhood.
 Jhulan Leela: Enacts the swinging of Krishna and Radha.
 Suisini, Jhuma, Ghapal, Panihari, Ginad, Terah Taali,
Bhavai: Various dances depicting daily life, rituals, and
legends.
Sikkim
 Chu Faat: Performed by the Lepcha tribe, offering butter
lamps to the four peaks.
 Yak Chaam: Dance depicting the yak, performed by the
Bhutia community.
  Sikmari: Performed during festivals, celebrating local
legends.
 Singhi Chaam: Snow lion dance, symbolizing Sikkim’s
guardian deity.
 Tashi Yangku: Ritual dance for prosperity and well-being.
 Khukuri Naach, Chutkey Naach, Maruni Dance: Various
community dances for celebrations and festivals.
Tamil Nadu
 Karagam: Dancers balance pots on their heads, performed
in honor of rain goddess5.
 Kummi: Circle dance with hand-clapping, performed by
women at festivals1.
 Kolattam: Stick dance with rhythmic tapping, performed
by women5.
 Kavadi: Pilgrimage dance performed by devotees of Lord
Murugan.
 Koothu: Folk theatre with dance, music, and storytelling.
 Paraiattam: Drum dance, performed during festivals and
processions.
 Oyilattam: "Dance of beauty," performed in a row with
ankle bells1.
  Mayilattam: Peacock dance, performed by girls in peacock
costumes at festivals1.
 Paambaatam: Snake dance, performed by girls mimicking
snake movements1.
Telangana
 Perini Shivatandavam: Vigorous dance dedicated to Lord
Shiva, performed by men.
 Keisabadi: Tribal dance by the Gond community,
performed during festivals.
Tripura
 Hojagiri: Performed by Reang women, balancing bottles
and lamps on their heads.
Uttar Pradesh
 Nautanki: Folk theatre with dance, music, and satire.
 Raslila: Dance-drama depicting Krishna’s life, performed in
Vrindavan style4.
 Kajri: Performed during monsoon, expressing longing and
love.
 Jhora, Chappeli, Jaita: Various community dances for
festivals and celebrations.
Uttarakhand
  Chappeli: Group dance by men and women, performed
during festivals.
 Garhwali, Kumayuni: Regional dances depicting local
traditions.
 Kajari, Jhora, Raslila: Performed during monsoon and
religious festivals.
West Bengal
 Purulia Chhau: Masked martial dance, enacting
mythological stories5.
 Alkap: Folk theatre with dance, music, and satire.
 Kathi: Stick dance, performed during festivals.
 Gambhira: Satirical dance-drama, performed during
Chaitra Sankranti.
 Dhali: Martial dance, performed with shields and swords.
 Jatra: Folk theatre with music and dance.
 Baul: Mystical song-dance tradition by wandering
minstrels.
 Santhali, Mahal, Keertan, Gajan, Chaibari Nritya: Tribal
and devotional dances for various occasions.
Union Territories (selected)
  Lakshadweep: Lava (martial dance), Kolkali (stick dance),
Parichakali (mock fight dance).
 Jammu & Kashmir: Rouff (women’s group dance), Dumhal
(men’s ceremonial dance), Kud (performed during night
gatherings).
 Andaman & Nicobar Islands: Tribal and Nicobari dances
reflecting local legends and community celebrations.

This list covers both major and minor folk dances, offering a
brief description of each to showcase the diversity and cultural
richness of every Indian state156.
Citations:
1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Indian_folk_dances
2. https://byjus.com/free-ias-prep/indian-dances/
3. https://www.ipassio.com/blog/indian-folk-dances
4. https://www.wileyindia.com/Instructor_Resources/
9789357468558/Folk_Dances_of_India.pdf
5. https://www.cheggindia.com/general-knowledge/folk-
dance-of-india/
6. https://www.gaurijog.com/indian-dance-education/folk-
dances-of-india/
7. https://testbook.com/ias-preparation/folk-dances-of-india
 8. https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/indian-folk-dance/
72595502

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