Continuing our journey across India to explore the various folk dance forms in our country, in this episode we visit the Western states of India - Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa before coming to a halt in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. 

 

Rajasthan is a state of palaces, deserts and cultures. But it is also world-famous for its unique folk dance which is called as Kalbelia dance. In this dance form, women wear lehengas and heavy ornaments when dancing. 

 

One thing which has left a mark on navratra celebrations in India and abroad, is the Dandiya dance. Originated in Gujarat, it is quite famous and a must have for any street party organized during these auspicious days. Besides festival celebrations, Dandiya is also enjoyed by locals throughout the year. Practiced in groups, dancers in this style wear colorful clothes and carry bamboo sticks which they strike with one other while dancing to the rhythms of the music.

 

Maharashtra has its famous Koli dance named after their native Koli community. The steps in this dance style resemble as if dancers are trying to catch a fish. Both men and women are divided into two groups and they enact rowing a boat and catching fish. Fisherman cap is the most important prop of this dance style. 

 

Goa, a land of beautiful beaches & carnivals, is also quite popular for its foot-tapping dance forms. While drawing huge inspiration from the western culture, it enjoys huge cultural heritage despite being the smallest state of India. Shigmo dance is considered the most traditional dance form of Goa. This dance is done in groups in a long procession performed by actors enacting scenes of the history of Goa. The dance has a huge Portuguese influence in it. 

 

Madhya Pradesh, the central most state of India, is known for its dance form Bhagoriya. It is a cultural identity of Baiga tribe of MP. This dance is performed in the festival of Dusshera by bachelor men who look for a bride for themselves by demonstrating their agility and dance skills. Certainly not for someone born with two left feet!

 

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