The state of Assam, located in the north-eastern region of India is one of the most unique states throughout the country. The traditional dances of Assam offer a glimpse of the diversity which graces the state. The thing that makes it the most unique is the fact that a lot of different types of tribes and local community live in peace with minimal disputes. With the availability of so many tribes, the whole state of Assam is like a kaleidoscope of colours. Each tribe and community is unique and has different lifestyles which fill the location with colours. The folk culture is vivid and is celebrated joyously with numerous unique dances that the community takes part in during festivals. Let us know about these folk dances of Assam in detail.
1. Bihu Dance: The Heartbeat of Assam
The Bihu dance is undoubtedly the most celebrated and widely recognized folk dance of Assam. It is performed during the Bihu festival, which marks the Assamese New Year and the arrival of spring. The festival is celebrated in three forms: Rongali Bihu/Bohag (spring festival), Kati Bihu (harvest festival), and Bhogali/Magh Bihu (winter festival). Among these, Rongali Bihu is the most vibrant and joyous, characterized by music, dance, and feasting. The Rongali Bihu dance performance is first thing which people throughout the world quote when asked about Assam. It is the most prominent among the cultural dances in Assam.
● Origins and Significance
The origins of the Bihu dance are deeply rooted in the agrarian culture of Assam. It is believed to have been performed by farmers to celebrate the harvest season and to seek blessings for a bountiful crop. The dance is a symbol of joy, fertility, and the rejuvenation of life. Historically, the Bihu dance was performed in open fields, but today it is showcased on various platforms, including cultural festivals and national events. The Bihu dance performance was brought to a stage for the first time by the Ahoms.
● Performance and Attire
The Bihu dance is a group performance involving both men and women. The dancers move in synchronized patterns, displaying energetic and rhythmic movements. The dance is characterized by brisk steps, rapid hand movements, and expressive facial expressions. The traditional attire for the Bihu dance includes the "mekhela chador" for women, a two-piece garment made of silk, and the "dhoti" and "gamocha" for men. The dancers are accompanied by traditional musical instruments such as the dhol (drum), pepa (hornpipe), taal (cymbals), and gogona (reed instrument).
2. Bagurumba Dance: The Butterfly Dance
The Bagurumba dance is a traditional dance of the Bodo community, one of the largest ethnic groups in Assam. Known as the "butterfly dance," it is performed during the Bwisagu festival, which marks the Bodo New Year and the arrival of spring.
● Origins and Significance:
The Bagurumba dance is inspired by the graceful movements of butterflies. It is performed to celebrate nature, fertility, and the harmony between humans and the environment. The dance is an expression of joy and a tribute to the beauty of nature and is very popular among the cultural dances in Assam.
● Performance and Attire:
The Bagurumba dance is performed exclusively by women, who move gracefully in a circular formation, imitating the fluttering of butterflies. The dancers wear traditional Bodo attire, which includes the "dokhna" (a wrap-around skirt), "jwmgra" (a blouse), and "aronai" (a scarf). The dance is accompanied by traditional Bodo music, featuring instruments such as the kham (drum), sifung (flute), and serja (string instrument).
3. Sattriya Dance: The Classical Dance of Assam
Sattriya dance is one of the eight classical dance forms of India, and it originated in the monasteries (sattras) of Assam. It was introduced by the Vaishnavite saint and reformer Srimanta Sankardev in the 15th century as a medium to propagate the teachings of Vaishnavism.
● Origins and Significance
Sattriya dance was initially performed by male monks (bhokots) in the sattras as a form of devotion and worship. It narrates stories from Hindu mythology, particularly the life and teachings of Lord Krishna. Over time, Sattriya evolved from a monastic tradition to a widely recognized classical dance form, performed by both men and women.
● Performance and Attire
Sattriya dance is characterized by its graceful and rhythmic movements, intricate footwork, and expressive hand gestures (mudras). The dance is performed to the accompaniment of traditional Assamese music, including instruments such as the khol (drum), taal (cymbals), and flute. The traditional attire for Sattriya dance includes the "kachuli" (a tight-fitting blouse), "ghuri" (a long skirt), and "paat" (a silk scarf). The dancers also wear elaborate jewelry and headgear.
4. Jhumur Dance: The Dance of the Tea Tribes
Jhumur dance is a popular folk dance of the tea tribes of Assam, particularly the Adivasi community. It is performed during various festivals and social gatherings, reflecting the vibrant culture and traditions of the tea garden workers. Jhumur is the most prominent among dance traditions of Assam tribes.
● Origins and Significance
The Jhumur dance is an integral part of the cultural heritage of the tea tribes, who migrated to Assam from central India during the British colonial period to work in the tea plantations. The dance is performed to celebrate various occasions, including harvest festivals, weddings, and community gatherings. It serves as a means of social bonding and cultural expression.
● Performance and Attire
Jhumur dance is performed by both men and women, who dance in a circular formation, holding each other's waists. The dance is characterized by rhythmic footwork, swaying movements, and lively music. The traditional attire for Jhumur dance includes colorful sarees for women and dhotis and kurtas for men. The dancers are accompanied by traditional musical instruments such as the madal (drum), flute, and harmonium.
5. Deodhani Dance: The Dance of the Oracle
Deodhani dance is a unique and mystical folk dance of Assam, performed by the Deodhani (oracle) during the Deodhani festival. The dance is associated with the worship of the snake goddess Manasa and other deities.
● Origins and Significance
The Deodhani dance is believed to have originated as a ritualistic dance performed by the Deodhani, who is believed to be possessed by the spirit of the goddess. The dance is performed to invoke the blessings of the goddess and to seek protection from evil spirits and diseases. It is a powerful and intense dance that reflects the deep spiritual beliefs of the Assamese people.
● Performance and Attire
The Deodhani dance is performed by a single dancer, usually a woman, who enters a trance-like state during the performance. The dance is characterized by vigorous movements, dramatic expressions, and rhythmic beats. The dancer wears traditional Assamese attire, including a saree and jewelry, and holds a sword or a trident as a symbol of the goddess. The dance is accompanied by traditional music, featuring instruments such as the dhol, taal, and pepa.
6. Bhortal Dance: The Dance of Cymbals
Bhortal dance is a lively and energetic folk dance of Assam, performed with cymbals (bhortal). It is a relatively modern dance form, created by the renowned Assamese dancer and choreographer Narahari Burha Bhakat. It is among the unique folk dances of Assam.
● Origins and Significance
The Bhortal dance was developed as a means of preserving and promoting the traditional music and dance forms of Assam. It is performed during various cultural festivals and events, showcasing the rich musical heritage of the region.
● Performance and Attire
The Bhortal dance is performed by a group of dancers, who move in synchronized patterns, creating rhythmic beats with the cymbals. The dance is characterized by its fast-paced movements, intricate footwork, and vibrant energy. The traditional attire for Bhortal dance includes colorful costumes, with the dancers often wearing dhotis and kurtas. The dance is accompanied by traditional Assamese music, featuring instruments such as the dhol, taal, and flute.
Conclusion
The folk dances of Assam are a testament to the state's rich cultural heritage and artistic diversity. Each dance form, with its unique origins, significance, and performance style, reflects the vibrant traditions and lifestyle of the Assamese people. The modern Assamese folk dances are also rooted deeply in the age-old traditions with minimal variations. From the joyous Bihu dance to the mystical Deodhani dance, these folk dances continue to captivate audiences and preserve the cultural essence of Assam. The folk dance festivals in Assam play an intricate role in keeping these dances alive and relevant. As we celebrate these dances, we also honor the spirit and creativity of the communities that have kept these traditions alive for generations.
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