{"id":31459,"date":"2026-10-29T17:37:18","date_gmt":"2026-10-29T12:07:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/?p=31459"},"modified":"2026-10-29T17:37:18","modified_gmt":"2026-10-29T12:07:18","slug":"dances-of-india","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/dances-of-india\/","title":{"rendered":"Dances of India 2026, Types, Classical, Folk, Tribal, UPSC Notes"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"><strong>Dances of India<\/strong> express the country\u2019s cultural diversity through movement, rhythm, storytelling, music, and community participation. They range from the structured techniques of Bharatanatyam and Kathak to the collective celebrations of Garba, Bihu, and numerous tribal traditions. Indian dance is both a performing art and a way of transmitting cultural knowledge across generations.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Indian dances are broadly classified into classical, folk, and tribal dance forms, although these categories can overlap. Contemporary and modern dance traditions have also evolved through interactions with traditional and international styles. From the intricate footwork of Kathak to the graceful movements of Manipuri, the energetic Bhangra of Punjab and the colourful Garba of Gujarat, dances of India reflect the country's cultural diversity.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Dances of India About<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Indian dance is an integral part of India\u2019s performing arts, with historical roots in prehistoric rock paintings, the <a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/indus-valley-civilization\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Indus Valley Civilisation<\/strong><\/a> and ancient religious and literary traditions. Dances performed in India are thought to have originated from Vedic dances and rituals dating back to around 5000 B.C.E.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The Bhimbetka Caves in Madhya Pradesh's Vindhya Hill region are filled with images of dancers in various poses and group choreographies created by hunter-gatherers. Rather, like most other disciplines of knowledge, their origins are attributed to deities.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The bronze Dancing Girl figurine from Mohenjo-daro (c. 2500 BCE) provides archaeological evidence of artistic representation of the human body, although it cannot establish the origin of any specific dance form.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Over centuries, dance evolved through temple rituals, devotional practices, royal patronage, and community celebrations.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">An important milestone in its history was the composition of the N\u0101\u1e6dya\u015b\u0101stra, attributed to Bharata Muni and generally dated by scholars to between approximately the 2nd century BCE and the 2nd century CE, though its precise date remains debated.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">This Sanskrit treatise systematically discusses drama, dance, music, gestures, stagecraft, and aesthetics, including rasa (aesthetic experience) and bhava (emotional expression).\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Indian dance traditions subsequently developed in diverse regional settings, broadly encompassing classical forms based on established artistic conventions and folk and tribal forms rooted in local customs, festivals, agricultural cycles and community life.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Popular Dances of India<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">India has a complex tapestry of traditional dances, which are essentially divided into classical and folk genres. Bharatanatyam from Tamil Nadu is well-known for its precise footwork and expressive gestures.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Kathak, a Northern Indian dance style, emphasises quick spins and rhythmic foot motions.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Beyond traditional forms, vibrant folk dances flourish across the country. These include the high-energy Bhangra of Punjab, the rhythmic Garba of Gujarat, and the delicate Ghoomar of Rajasthan.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Traditional Dances of India<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Traditional dances of India preserve knowledge through repeated practice, teaching, and participation. Classical traditions commonly involve systematic instruction under a teacher, while many folk and tribal forms are learned within families and communities. These methods can overlap. Their themes include:<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Stories drawn from regional literature and mythology.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Agricultural activities and seasonal change.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Weddings, festivals, and social relationships.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Community memory, identity, and traditional occupations.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Spiritual beliefs and relationships with the natural environment.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Basic Aspects of Dances of India<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Indian dance combines movement, rhythm, emotional expression, and storytelling. Classical dance traditions use established concepts such as Nritta, Nritya, Natya, and Abhinaya, while hand gestures and the Guru\u2013Shishya Parampara help preserve and transmit artistic knowledge across generations.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Nritta, Nritya and Natya:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> These represent three dimensions of Indian classical dance. Nritta involves pure rhythmic movements, Nritya combines movements with emotional expression, while Natya presents stories and characters through dramatic performance.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Abhinaya:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> It refers to the techniques used to communicate emotions, ideas, and stories through dance. It includes body movements (Angika), speech and song (Vachika), costumes and makeup (Aharya), and inner emotional expression (Sattvika).<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Mudras or Hastas:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> These are symbolic hand gestures used to represent objects, actions, characters, and emotions. Their meanings depend on the context of the performance, and traditional texts such as the Abhinaya Darpana explain their use in Indian classical dance.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Guru\u2013Shishya Parampara:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> This traditional teacher\u2013disciple system involves the transmission of dance techniques, artistic knowledge, and performance traditions through continuous guidance and practice.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">It plays an important role in preserving the distinctive styles and cultural heritage of Indian dance.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Types of Dances in India<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Indian dances can be broadly classified into three major categories: classical, folk, and tribal dances.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Classical Indian Dances: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Classical dances are highly systematised forms governed by established techniques, movements, expressions and traditions, generally requiring prolonged training under a guru.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Major forms include Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Manipuri, Mohiniyattam and Sattriya.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Indian Folk Dances: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Folk dances are generally community-based performances associated with festivals, seasons, marriages, social occasions, and local traditions.<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Examples include Bhangra, Giddha, Garba, Bihu, Ghoomar, and Dandiya.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Tribal Dances: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Tribal dances emerge from the cultural and social life of tribal communities and are commonly performed during festivals, rituals, seasonal events, and community celebrations.<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Their forms are closely connected with local customs and collective participation.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Classical Dances of India<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Indian classical dances are codified dance traditions that combine rhythm, bodily movements, facial expressions, gestures, music, and dramatic representation. Rooted in the N\u0101\u1e6dya\u015b\u0101stra and regional cultural traditions, they have evolved into distinct styles with their own techniques, themes, and performance conventions.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Bharatanatyam (Tamil Nadu):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Known for precise footwork, geometric postures, expressive abhinaya, and themes drawn from Hindu devotional traditions.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Kathak (North India):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Characterised by intricate footwork, rapid spins, rhythmic compositions, and storytelling through gestures and facial expressions; it developed through both temple and court traditions.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Kathakali (Kerala):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A dance-drama distinguished by elaborate costumes, facial make-up, stylised movements, and dramatic enactment of episodes from Indian epics.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Combines dance, music and drama, traditionally presenting stories from Hindu mythology through expressive acting and rhythmic movements.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Odissi (Odisha):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Recognised for its characteristic tribhanga posture, graceful movements and sculptural poses, with strong connections to Odisha\u2019s temple traditions.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Manipuri (Manipur):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Known for gentle, rounded movements and devotional themes, particularly episodes associated with Radha-Krishna and the Ras Leela tradition.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Mohiniyattam (Kerala):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A graceful solo dance traditionally performed by women, marked by soft movements, expressive gestures and themes centred on devotion and love.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Sattriya (Assam):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Originated in the Vaishnavite monasteries (Sattras) of Assam and was systematised by Srimanta Sankardeva; it combines dance, drama and devotional expression.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Folk Dances of India<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Folk dances are community-based dance traditions that emerge from the everyday life, customs, festivals, occupations and religious practices of different regions. Unlike classical dances, they are generally less rigidly codified and are transmitted largely through community participation and cultural traditions.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Bhangra (Punjab):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Traditionally associated with the agricultural cycle and harvest celebrations; characterised by energetic movements and the use of the dhol.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Giddha (Punjab):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A traditional women's dance performed through rhythmic movements, clapping and boliyan (short folk verses).<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Garba (Gujarat):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A circular community dance traditionally associated with Navratri and devotion to the feminine divine.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Dandiya Raas (Gujarat):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Performed with decorated sticks (dandiyas), particularly during Navratri, combining coordinated movements with rhythmic music.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Ghoomar (Rajasthan):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A traditional dance known for graceful circular movements, swirling costumes, and group participation, particularly during festive and ceremonial occasions.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Bihu (Assam):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Associated with the Bohag Bihu festival and the agricultural cycle; it expresses youthful energy, celebration, and community life.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Lavani (Maharashtra):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A vibrant performance tradition combining dance with Marathi folk music, rhythm, and expressive movements; traditionally accompanied by the dholki.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Rouf (Jammu and Kashmir):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A women's group dance traditionally performed during festivals and seasonal occasions, marked by synchronised movements.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Dalkhai (Odisha):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A prominent folk dance of western Odisha, traditionally performed mainly by women during festivals and accompanied by folk songs and instruments.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Cheraw (Mizoram):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Known as the bamboo dance, in which dancers perform coordinated steps between moving bamboo poles.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Tribal Dances of India<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Tribal dances are closely woven into the social, ritual, and cultural life of tribal communities. They integrate dance with music, costumes, festivals, and traditional beliefs, while also serving as a means of preserving community identity and transmitting cultural knowledge across generations.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">North India<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The Himalayan region has distinct tribal dance traditions shaped by local customs, community ceremonies, and traditional beliefs.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Dhumal (Jammu &amp; Kashmir):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Associated with the Wattal community, Dhumal forms part of the region\u2019s traditional tribal dance practices and reflects collective community participation.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Dhurang and Dhuring (Uttarakhand):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> These dances are associated with Bhotiya communities and are traditionally connected with death ceremonies, demonstrating the ritual dimension of tribal dance traditions.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">South India<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Southern tribal dances reflect the close relationship between community life, traditional music, and collective cultural expression.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Dhimsa (Andhra Pradesh):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A traditional dance associated with tribal communities of the eastern Deccan region, representing collective participation through coordinated movements.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Koya Dance (Telangana and Andhra Pradesh):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Associated with the Koya tribal community, the dance forms part of their traditional cultural expression and community celebrations.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">East India<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Eastern India, particularly Odisha and Jharkhand, has a wide variety of tribal dances associated with different communities and occasions.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Dalkhai (Odisha):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A prominent tribal dance tradition of western Odisha, particularly associated with the cultural traditions of the region.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Dhemsa (Odisha):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Associated with the Koraput region, Dhemsa is an important tribal dance tradition of southern Odisha and is performed as part of community cultural practices.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Dhap and Ghumra (Odisha):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> These are among the tribal dance traditions associated with Kalahandi, where dance and traditional musical practices form an important part of community culture.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Changu (Odisha):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Associated with the Juang tribe, Changu represents the close connection between tribal dance and indigenous musical traditions.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Dandari (Odisha):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A traditional dance of western Odisha, reflecting the community-based character of tribal performance traditions.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Painka (Odisha):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Associated with tribal communities of western Odisha, including the Paudi Bhuiyan, and forms part of the region's traditional dance repertoire.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Karma (Jharkhand and Odisha):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A widely practised tribal dance tradition extending across several states, including Odisha, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">West &amp; Central India<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Central and western India contain tribal dance traditions that express the distinctive cultural identity and social life of communities such as the Baiga, Gond and Korku.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Baiga Dance (Madhya Pradesh):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Dance and music constitute an important part of Baiga cultural traditions, reflecting the community's collective cultural expression.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Matki (Madhya Pradesh):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Listed among the dance traditions of the region, Matki represents the diversity of traditional dance practices in central India.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Parvi Nach (Maharashtra):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A traditional dance form associated with tribal communities of Maharashtra, reflecting the region's distinctive cultural practices.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Bihawoo (Maharashtra):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A Korku tribal marriage dance associated with the Melghat region, illustrating the role of dance in tribal ceremonies and social life.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">North-East India<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The North-East has exceptionally diverse tribal traditions, where dance, music, costumes, and community rituals are closely interconnected.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Bawdo Chham (Arunachal Pradesh):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Included among the tribal dance traditions of Arunachal Pradesh and reflects the region's distinctive indigenous performance culture.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Cheraw (Mizoram):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A prominent traditional dance of Mizoram, recognised for its coordinated performance and distinctive use of bamboo poles.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Chang Lo (Nagaland):<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> A traditional dance associated with the Chang community, forming part of Nagaland's indigenous cultural traditions<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Dances of India Significance<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Dances of India are not merely performing arts; they function as vehicles of cultural transmission, community identity, and social expression. Classical, folk, and tribal traditions preserve regional histories, beliefs, music, costumes and customary practices while adapting to changing social contexts.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Cultural Heritage:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Dances preserve diverse regional traditions, customs, myths, and artistic practices, transmitting them across generations.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Community Identity:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Folk and tribal dances strengthen collective identity and social cohesion, particularly through group performances during festivals and ceremonies.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Religious Expression:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Several dance traditions communicate devotional themes, mythology, and spiritual beliefs, linking performing arts with religious traditions.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Social Integration:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Collective performances during festivals, marriages, and community occasions create opportunities for participation and social interaction.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Historical Continuity:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Dance traditions provide insights into the historical evolution of Indian society, including changing religious, regional, and cultural influences.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Promotion of Diversity:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> The coexistence of numerous regional dance traditions reflects India's cultural pluralism and unity in diversity.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Economic Opportunities:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Dance supports livelihoods for performers, musicians, costume makers, teachers, and other associated cultural practitioners.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Cultural Diplomacy:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Indian classical and folk dances serve as instruments of cultural exchange and international representation, contributing to India's cultural presence abroad.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Dances of India State-wise<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">India\u2019s dance forms reflect its rich cultural diversity, regional traditions, religious beliefs, and community practices. Each state has distinctive classical, folk and tribal dances that preserve its history, customs and artistic heritage.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<table style=\"width: 88.2728%\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td class=\"tb-color\" style=\"width: 42.0481%\"><b>State\/UT<\/b><\/td>\r\n<td class=\"tb-color\" style=\"width: 76.5062%\"><b>Important dance forms<\/b><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Andhra Pradesh<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Kuchipudi, Dhimsa, Veeranatyam<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Arunachal Pradesh<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Aji Lamu, Ponung, Popir<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Assam<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Sattriya, Bihu, Bagurumba<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Bihar<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Jat-Jatin, Bidesia, Jhijhiya<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Chhattisgarh<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Panthi, Raut Nacha, Sua<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Goa<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Fugdi, Dhalo, Dekhni<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Gujarat<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Garba, Dandiya Raas, Tippani<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Haryana<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Dhamal, Phag, Loor<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Himachal Pradesh<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Nati, Nati Kulluvi, Chham<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Jharkhand<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Chhau (Seraikella region), Paika, Jhumair<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Karnataka<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Yakshagana, Dollu Kunitha, Veeragase<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Kerala<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Thiruvathirakali, Theyyam<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Madhya Pradesh<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Matki, Rai, Grida<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Maharashtra<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Lavani, Koli, Lezim<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Manipur<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Manipuri (Ras Leela), Pung Cholom, Lai Haraoba<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Meghalaya<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Wangala, Nongkrem, Shad Suk Mynsiem<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Mizoram<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Cheraw, Khuallam, Chheihlam<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Nagaland<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Chang Lo, Zeliang, Naga war dances<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Odisha<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Odissi, Mayurbhanj Chhau, Ghumura<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Punjab<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Bhangra, Giddha, Sammi<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Rajasthan<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Ghoomar, Kalbelia, Bhavai, Kachhi Ghodi<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Sikkim<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Singhi Chham, Maruni, Yak Chham<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Tamil Nadu<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Bharatanatyam, Karagattam, Kummi, Kavadi Attam<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Telangana<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Perini Shivatandavam, Lambadi, Gusadi<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Tripura<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Hojagiri, Garia, Lebang Boomani<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Uttar Pradesh<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Kathak, Raslila, Charkula<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Uttarakhand<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Chholiya, Jhora, Chhapeli<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">West Bengal<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Purulia Chhau, Gambhira, Dhunuchi<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Nicobari dances, tribal community dances<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Chandigarh<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Bhangra, Giddha<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Tarpa, Bhawada, Dhol<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Delhi<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Bhangra, Kathak and regional folk traditions<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Jammu and Kashmir<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Rouf, Dumhal, Kud<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Ladakh<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Jabro, Shondol, Cham<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Lakshadweep<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Kolkali, Parichakali, Lava<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 42.0481%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Puducherry<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 76.5062%\">\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Garadi, Bharatanatyam and Tamil folk dances<\/span><\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Dances of India Challenges<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Indian dance traditions are living forms of cultural heritage, sustained through performers, communities and intergenerational transmission. However, changing lifestyles, economic pressures and modern media have created challenges for their continuity and community-based practice.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Declining Community Participation:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Industrialisation, changing lifestyles and new media can reduce collective participation in traditional performances, weakening their connection with local communities.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Weak Intergenerational Transmission:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Traditional knowledge depends heavily on learning from experienced practitioners. When younger generations move away from traditional cultural spaces or show less interest, transmitting specialised techniques and associated practices becomes difficult.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Economic Insecurity of Artists:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Many traditional performers face limited and irregular livelihood opportunities, making sustained practice difficult, particularly where performances depend on local patronage.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Commercialisation and Standardisation:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Adaptation for tourism, entertainment and mass media can alter traditional forms. Excessive commercialisation may separate a dance from its original social, ritual or cultural context. UNESCO highlights the need to safeguard traditions while allowing them to remain living and evolving practices.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Changing Cultural Spaces:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Urbanisation and migration can reduce the village, temple or community spaces in which traditional dances were historically practised and transmitted.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Limited Institutional Coordination:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Effective preservation requires cooperation among communities, governments, cultural institutions, universities and NGOs. UNESCO's work in India stresses community participation and stakeholder coordination in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Dances of India Government Measures<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The Government of India has adopted measures combining institutional support, financial assistance, training, documentation and cultural promotion to preserve India\u2019s classical, folk and tribal dance traditions.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Sangeet Natak Akademi:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> The Akademi works for the preservation and promotion of Indian dance, including classical, folk and tribal traditions, through institutions, projects, festivals, research and recognition of artists.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Financial Assistance to Institutions:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> SNA provides grants to cultural institutions involved in music, dance, drama, folk and tribal arts. Assistance can support teachers and students, artist fees, productions, regular performances and specialised training.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> The Ministry of Culture\u2019s scheme supports documentation, training, workshops, performances, database creation, and dissemination of India\u2019s intangible cultural traditions, including performing arts.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Dedicated Dance Institutions:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Institutions such as Kathak Kendra, New Delhi, and Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy, Imphal, provide structured training in major classical dance traditions.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Dances of India UPSC PYQs<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><b>Q1: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Which one of the following was the latest inclusion in the Intangible Cultural Heritage List of UNESCO? (<\/span><b>UPSC Prelims 2024)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">a) Chhau dance<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">b) Durga Puja<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">c) Garba dance<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">d) Kumbh Mela<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><b>Ans: (c)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p><b>Q2: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">With reference to the famous Sattriya dance, consider the following statements :<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ol>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Sattriya is a combination of music, dance and drama.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> It is a centuries-old living tradition of Vaishnavites of Assam.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> It is based on classical Ragas and Talas of devotional songs composed by Tulsidas, Kabir and Mirabai.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/span><b> (UPSC Prelims 2014)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(a)1 only<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(b)1 and 2 only<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(c)2 and 3 only<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(d)1, 2 and 3<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><b>Ans: (b)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p><b>Q3<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Consider the following pairs :<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ol>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Garba: Gujarat<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Mohiniattam: Odisha<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Yakshagana: Karnataka<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Which of the pairs given above is\/are correctly matched? <\/span><b>(UPSC Prelims 2014)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(a)1 only<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(b)2 and 3 only<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(c)1 and 3 only<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(d)1, 2 and 3<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><b>Ans: (c)<\/b><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Dances of India reflect its diverse traditions, blending culture, religion, history, and regional identities. Check about Classical Dances of India and Folk dances.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":22,"featured_media":31487,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[38,23],"tags":[2166,40,619],"class_list":["post-31459","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-upsc-notes","category-upsc-art-culture-notes","tag-dances-of-india","tag-quest","tag-upsc-art-and-culture-notes"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31459","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/22"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=31459"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31459\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":31493,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31459\/revisions\/31493"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/31487"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=31459"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=31459"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=31459"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}