Uttarakhand, the land of Garhwal and Kumaon, is known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Folk dances hold a special place among the many traditions that thrive in this Himalayan state. The people of Uttarakhand celebrate their joys, sorrows, and spiritual beliefs through dance. In this article, we explore the 5 folk dances of Uttarakhand and the fascinating legends behind them.
1. Pandav Nritya – The Dance of the Mahabharata
| Key Highlights | Details |
| Performed During | November to February |
| Duration | 10 – 12 days |
| Significance | Depicts the life of the Pandavas |
Pandav Nritya narrates the legendary tale of the five Pandava brothers from the Mahabharata. This dramatic dance form showcases various stages of their lives, from exile to victory, through rhythmic movements and drum beats.
Legend Behind Pandav Nritya
It is believed that during the performance, the energies of the Pandavas enter the bodies of the dancers, making them act as a medium to relive the great epic. The performance concludes with a grand feast for the villagers, signifying the end of their spiritual journey.
2. Bhotiya Dance – The Dance of the Departed Souls
| Key Highlights | Details |
| Performed By | Bhotiya Tribe |
| Linked To | Death rituals |
| Belief | Helps liberate souls |
Bhotiya Dance is deeply connected to the afterlife beliefs of the Bhotiya tribe of Uttarakhand. It is performed as part of their death rituals.
Legend Behind Bhotiya Dance
The Bhotiya people believe that after death, a human soul enters the body of a sheep or goat. By performing this dance, they help the soul attain liberation and peace, allowing it to move on to the afterlife. This unique dance is often referred to as the “Dance of the Dead.”
Also Read: Har Ki Pauri Haridwar Uttarakhand
3. Choliya Dance – The Martial Dance of Warriors
| Key Highlights | Details |
| Origin | Over 1,000 years ago |
| Performed During | Rajput Weddings |
| Symbolism | Martial traditions |
Choliya Dance, also known as Sword Dance, is a traditional martial art form that dates back over a thousand years. It is primarily performed in Rajput weddings of the Kumaon region.
Legend Behind Choliya Dance
Historically, this dance was performed to ward off evil spirits and ensure the prosperity of newlyweds. Dancers dress as warriors, carrying swords and shields while engaging in synchronized mock fights, accompanied by regional brass and percussion instruments like Turi, Ransing, Dhol, and Damaru.
4. Jhora Dance – A Celebration of Unity
| Key Highlights | Details |
| Performed During | Springtime, weddings, and fairs |
| Unique Feature | Breaks caste barriers |
| Region | Kumaon Himalayas |
Jhora Dance is a community dance performed in large circles, symbolizing togetherness and harmony.
Legend Behind Jhora Dance
This dance form was introduced to break caste barriers, allowing people from all backgrounds to participate. It is a symbol of social equality, making it one of the most loved folk dances in Uttarakhand. Apart from celebrating the arrival of spring, Jhora is also performed during weddings and fairs.
5. Mukhota Dance – The Masked Celebration
| Key Highlights | Details |
| Performed During | Vaishakha Fair |
| Linked To | Worship of Bhumiyal Devta |
| Costume Feature | Traditional masks |
Mukhota Dance is a vibrant and colorful folk dance performed during the Vaishakha Fair. It is dedicated to Bhumiyal Devta, the protector deity of the land.
Legend Behind Mukhota Dance
Dancers wear traditional masks resembling deities and demons, representing the eternal battle between good and evil. During the festival, villagers prepare and offer ground rice dishes to seek blessings for a prosperous year ahead.
Also Read: Gangotri Dham Uttarakhand
Conclusion
The 5 folk dances of Uttarakhand are more than just performances—they are a deep-rooted expression of culture, history, and spirituality. Each dance form carries a unique story, showcasing the rich traditions of this beautiful Himalayan state. Whether it’s the epic tales of the Pandavas, the warrior spirit of Choliya, or the soul-liberating Bhotiya dance, these traditions continue to thrive and mesmerize audiences to this day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Which is the most famous folk dance of Uttarakhand?
A: Pandav Nritya and Choliya Dance are among the most famous folk dances of Uttarakhand.
Q2: What is the purpose of the Bhotiya Dance?
A: Bhotiya Dance is performed to help the soul of a deceased person attain liberation.
Q3: Which folk dance of Uttarakhand is performed with masks?
A: Mukhota Dance is performed with masks resembling deities and demons.
Q4: What is the significance of the Jhora Dance?
A: Jhora Dance promotes social harmony by allowing people from all castes to participate together.
Q5: Where can I see these folk dances in Uttarakhand?
A: These dances can be witnessed during local festivals, fairs, and traditional wedding ceremonies in the villages of Uttarakhand.
Uttarakhand’s folk dances not only preserve the region’s cultural identity but also provide a mesmerizing experience for anyone who witnesses them. If you ever get a chance to visit Uttarakhand, don’t miss out on these lively and legendary dance performances!
