Most Famous Indian Folk and Tribal Dances

Ghoomar: Rajasthani Folk Dance

Folk dance in India is a term broadly used to describe all forms of folk and tribal dances in regions across India. WhileIndian classical dance is considered a higher form of art and was practiced in courts, temples and on special occasions, folk dance forms are practiced in groups in rural areas as an expression of their daily work and rituals. They are performed on religious or seasonal festivals. Some of the popular folk dances that are performed across villages and cities are Bhangra,Garba and Lavani.

Punjab Folk Dance

Bhangra

Bhangra: World famous Punjabi Folk Dance

Bhangra is a traditional and lively form of folk dance which originated from Punjab. People in Punjab traditionally perform Bhangra while celebrating the harvest. During Bhangra, people sing Punjabi Boliyaan lyrics, at least one person plays the the dhol drum, and other people may play the flute, dholak drum, or other musical instruments. While Bhangra began as a part of harvest festival celebrations, it eventually became a part of such diverse occasions as weddings and New Year celebrations.

Gujrat Folk Dance

Garba

Garbha: Gujarati Folk Dance

Garba is the popular dance from Gujarat and is being performed not only all over India but all over the world by the Gujaratis. Garba is an Indian form which has originated in the Gujarat region. It is more similar to the classical Indian dances such as Bharatanatyam and Odissi. The name garba comes from the Sanskrit term Garba which means "belly" and Deep which means "a small earthen lamp" while many traditional sheaves are performed around a central lighted lamp. Garbha is a circular form of dance performed by ladies on the Navaratri days which are auspicious days of Goddess Durga in the Winter Months, during Sharad Purnima, Vasant Panchami, Holi and other festive occasions.

Maharashtra Folk Dance

Lavani

Lavani: Marathi Folk Dance

Lavani Originating from the state of Maharashtra the word Lavanya meaning Beauty which tries to put the various social aspects in an entertaining form. The Lavani Dance form is a combination of traditional songs and dances. It worked as a morale booster for the war soldiers in the 18th century.

Usually Lavani Dance form is performed by Dhangars or shepherds of Sholapur district of Maharashtra. Lavani is the poetry written by Dhangras who gets the inspiration by nature. The Lavani dance from contains the tales of Birth of their Diety called Biruba. In general in the Lavani Songs there are meaningless chants which are used to fill the gaps within the musical sounds. Lavani the musical drama goes on for the entire night and at the end of the Lavani performance, a replica of Manmathas mount is burnt.