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Punjab . Dances of Punjab
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Dances of Punjab |
Bhangra: Everything you
ever wanted to know
Women have a different but no less exuberant dance called gidda. The dancers enact verses called bolis, which represent folk poetry at its best. The subject matter of these bolis is wide ranging indeed – everything from arguments with the sister-in-law to political affairs figure in these lively songs. Aside from the drums, the rhythm of this dance is set by the distinctive hand-claps of the dancers.
Jhumar
This dance has originally come from Sandalbar (now in Pakistan), but is
now very much a part of Punjab folk heritage. It is a dance of graceful
gait, based on specific Jhumar rhythm. Dancers circle around the
drummer, and keep up a soft, sibilant chorus as they dance.
Luddi
Luddi is a victory-dance recognisable by the swaying movements of the
head. Its costume is a simple loose shirt. The performers place one hand
at the back and the other before the face; the body movement is sinuous,
snake-like. This is also danced with the drummer in the centre.
Julli
This dance associated with Muslim holymen called pirs and is
generally danced in their hermitages (khangahs). This dance is mostly
performed in sitting posture, sometimes it is also danced around the
grave of a preceptor. A single dancer can also perform this dance.
Normally the dancer wears black.
Dankara
Also called the gaatka dance, this is a dance of celebration. Two
men, each holding colourful staves, dance round each other and tap their
sticks together in rhythm with the drums. This dance is often part of
marriage celebrations.
Dhamal
Similar to bhangra and is danced by men in a circle.
Sammi
Traditionally by women of the Sandalbar region, now in Pakistan. The
dancers are dressed in bright coloured kurtas and full flowing skirts
called lehengas. A peculiar silver hair ornament is associated with this
dance.
Jaago
Literally, "wake up!" When there’s a marriage in the house,
girls dance through the village streets carrying a pot (gaggar)
decorated with lightened candles and singing jaagu songs. The
theme of song in the ‘Jago’ is social and typically a bit of teasing
(often aimed at elders) goes with the song.
Kikli
This dance is performed by women in pairs. They cross their arms,
hold each other’s hands and whirl around singing folk songs. Sometimes
four girls join hands to perform this dance.
The text and images in this section are from the Archives of the Punjab
Government.
Punjab Govt. , Plot No. 3, sector 38, Chandigarh. Telephone Nos :
0091-172-694889, 0091-172-694997
