Assam’s folk dances mirror the lives of its diverse people, reflecting traditional art forms. The region, a blend of numerous tribes and communities, boasts a variety of folk dances.
These dances, adorned with colorful attire and songs narrating local tales, are truly captivating. Folk music and dance are integral to each tribe’s heritage, deeply connecting people emotionally. They eloquently depict the communities’ ways of life, thoughts, and sentiments.
Folk Dance Styles Of Assam
1. Bihu Dance
Bihu isn’t just a festival in Assam; it’s an emotion deeply cherished by its residents. This grand celebration goes beyond local boundaries, resonating as a significant cultural treasure. The Bihu dance, performed widely on TV, on large stages, and locally, fills April-May with vibrant colors and resonates with the traditional beats of instruments like “Dhul,” “Pepah,” and “Gogona.”
There are variations in Bihu styles across regions, reflected in the slightly different colors of the “sador mekhela” worn by people. Men typically wear a “Phulam Gamusa,” a turban, a cotton or silk shirt, and a Dhoti. This festival serves as a unifying force, bringing people together. The energetic dance moves synchronize with the tempo and intensity of the instruments. Originating as a courtship dance, Bihu has evolved while retaining its spirited essence.
2. Bagurumba Dance
Bagurumba, a group dance performed by married and unmarried Bodo women, is often called the butterfly dance. The name originates from the characteristic dance movements where women hold their scarves with both hands and sway harmoniously in unison, resembling colorful butterflies fluttering in motion. The traditional Bodo-style attire, typically bright yellow, adds a spectacular visual element to the dance.
Observing a Bagurumba dance conjures nature imagery, evoking thoughts of birds, flowing rivers, and other natural elements. These visuals reflect the Bodo people’s close connection to nature, originating from their simple rural roots. The dance is a beautiful representation of the Bodo community’s inherent bond with nature.
3. Jhumur Dance
Jhumur, belonging to the tea tribes of Assam, is one of the most captivating group dances. The tea tribes, vital contributors to Assam’s key industry, display remarkable independence and diligence in their work. Dancing serves as a way for them to unwind after a hard day’s labor.
During Jhumur, women adorn themselves in white sarees with red borders, donning anklets and applying “Alta” on their hands and feet. They form a chain by holding each other’s waists, symbolizing unity and joy. This dance exhibits various forms depending on the occasion, whether it’s devotional, related to courtship, or for other purposes. While men play the drum, women sing and gracefully synchronize their dance moves with the music, creating a mesmerizing performance.
4. Bhortal Dance
The Bhortal Dance, originating from the Sankari culture and belonging to Assam’s Barpeta district, is an expressive and energetic group dance form. It can be performed by males of varying ages, showcasing their vigor and enthusiasm.
During the performance, dancers hold cymbals, adding a rhythmic element to their energetic movements. They create various formations and arrangements throughout the dance, displaying agility and coordination. Simultaneously, they rhythmically play their cymbals in sync with the drum beats accompanying the performance, adding to the lively and vibrant atmosphere of the dance.
5. Ali-Ai Ligang dance
The Ali-Ai Ligang dance is a distinctive folk dance of the Mishing tribe, characterized by its beauty and cultural significance. Similar to Bihu, this dance is linked to agriculture. In the Mishing language, “Ali” signifies roots, “Ai” refers to the fruit, and “Ligang” translates to “sowing.” The celebration coincides with the season of sowing Ahu paddy.
During Ali-Ai Ligang, there’s an exuberant display of festivity, with people of all ages participating fervently. The costumes typically feature a combination of red and black colors, enhancing the visual appeal of the dance. This elegant dance is performed as a tribute to honor Mother Earth, reflecting the community’s reverence for nature and agriculture.
Santosh Kumar is a Professional SEO and Blogger, With the help of this blog he is trying to share top 10 lists, facts, entertainment news from India and all around the world.