Devotional and Folk Dance of Uttarakhand and Pudduchery
Devotional and Folk Dance of Uttarakhand and Pudduchery:
Uttarakhand:
1. Langvir Nritya: Langvir Nritya is a traditional folk dance of the Jaunsar-Bawar region in Uttarakhand. It is performed by men and showcases their strength and agility. The dancers wear traditional attire, including a headgear made of peacock feathers, and perform acrobatic movements accompanied by traditional music.
2. Barada Nati: Barada Nati is a popular folk dance of the Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand. It is performed during religious festivals and celebrations. The dancers form a circle and move in a rhythmic pattern, accompanied by traditional musical instruments like dhol, damoun, and turri.
3. Jhora: Jhora is a lively and energetic folk dance performed by the women of Uttarakhand. It is characterized by swift footwork, graceful hand movements, and synchronized group formations. Jhora is often performed during weddings, festivals, and other social gatherings.
4. Chholiya: Chholiya is a martial dance form originating from the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. It depicts mock combat between two groups of dancers, representing mythological characters. The dancers wield swords and shields while performing rhythmic movements accompanied by traditional music.
Puducherry:
1. Garadi: Garadi is a popular folk dance of Puducherry, also known as Pondicherry. It is performed during the festival of Shivaratri. The dance is primarily performed by men, who wear traditional attire and adorn themselves with ornaments. Garadi involves vigorous movements, footwork, and dramatic expressions.
2. Villupattu: Villupattu is a traditional form of storytelling through dance and music in Puducherry. The performers, known as Villupattu artists, narrate mythological stories and epics through songs, accompanied by musical instruments like a bow, cymbals, and a small drum. It is a unique blend of dance, music, and storytelling.
3. Oyilattam: Oyilattam is a lively and rhythmic folk dance of Puducherry. It is performed during festivals and special occasions. The dancers form a circular pattern and move in synchronized steps, clapping their hands and maintaining the rhythm. Oyilattam is often accompanied by traditional folk music.
4. Thappattam: Thappattam is a folk dance form prevalent in Tamil Nadu, including Puducherry. It involves rhythmic clapping of hands and use of traditional percussion instruments like thappu (a wooden drum). The dancers form various patterns and perform energetic movements while maintaining the beat of the music.
5. Thiruvathirai Kali: Thiruvathirai Kali is a popular dance form performed by women during the Thiruvathirai festival in Puducherry. It is a devotional dance dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The dancers form a circle and move in a graceful manner, clapping their hands to the rhythm of the music. The dance symbolizes devotion and marital harmony.
6. Kavadiyattam: Kavadiyattam is a vibrant and energetic folk dance performed in Puducherry during the Thaipusam festival. It involves dancers carrying ornately decorated structures called "kavadis" on their shoulders. The dancers perform intricate steps, accompanied by rhythmic music and chanting. Kavadiyattam is a form of devotion to Lord Murugan.
7. Bharatanatyam: Bharatanatyam is a classical Indian dance form that is also popular in Puducherry. It is characterized by intricate footwork, expressive hand gestures, and facial expressions. Bharatanatyam often incorporates devotional themes and is performed as a solo or group dance. It is considered one of the most sophisticated dance forms in India.
