Folk Dances of Kashmir

Ethnic dances are not all folk dances. For instance, folk dances are not regarded as ritual dances or dances with a foundation. Due to their intended usage, ritual dances are frequently referred to as “religious dances.”

Kashmir is highly known for its traditional dances in addition to its natural beauty. In Kashmir, traditional folk dances are typically performed to honor the holiday spirit. Kashmir’s culture has a rich legacy, which includes the regional music and folk dance.

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The following section discusses notable Kashmir valley dances.

Famous dances are part of Kashmir’s rich cultural legacy and are performed at all of the state’s important events, including weddings. Also, there are several unique dances that are performed for events like birthdays and crop harvests. The dance styles of Jammu and Kashmir are not just unique to the state; they also draw admirers from throughout the nation. These ancient dances are now an essential component of the state’s rich cultural heritage.

Kud Dance:

When they are grateful for something, millennials stay up late partying. Ever wonder how farmers spend holidays in the middle Himalayan ranges? The millennial method is comparable to Kud Dancing. Yeah, dancing is more enjoyable and traditional. The roof is covered by the blanket of stars rather than the ceiling. They do a folk dance rather than freestyle.

Jammu and Kashmir’s traditional dance is the kud dance. The act is carried out by appreciative locals after the crop harvesting is complete. It is a rite and celebration to give thanks to the Gramdevata, or local deity, for preventing natural calamities from affecting people, livestock, and crops.

The fact that everyone may join in Kud dancing is its most intriguing aspect. Everyone is welcome to participate in the joyful occasion of worshipping the Lok Devatas, from young children to elderly people, local residents to tourists, and men and women alike. Would you like to join? By visiting these communities in the middle mountain ranges, which are bordered by breathtaking landscapes, you can also take part in this amusing rite.

Dhumal Dance:

One of the most well-known folk dances in Jammu & Kashmir, India, is the dumhal dance. The Dumhal dance is occasionally done among the Wattal people. The dancers chant a chorus of folk songs as they move to the music.

The men march to a predetermined location while carrying a banner in a procession. When they get there, they place the flag on the ground. The Dumhal dance, which rotates around the banner, is then performed.

According to legend, Shah Sukar Saloni, a devoted devotee of the Sufi saint known as “Baba Nasim-U-Din-Gazi,” invented this dance. This dance style was developed by Shah Sukar in honour of the Sufi saint (i.e. his guru).

In the Kashmiri state, both men and women practise the Dumhal dance, a type of traditional dance. This particular style of folk dance is valued for its creativity and the extensive heritage it reflects. The dance originated with and flourished among the Kashmiri Wattal tribe. The dancers are attired in long, vibrant gowns with beadwork and other decorations. In a parade, the dancers convey the charm and vibrant culture of the area.

The flag that carries the message intended is carried by the men who perform the dance and is buried in the ground. In addition to dancing, they also sing a chorus of calming, lovely songs. A musical instrument that is used to create music is the drum. The songs sound great and offer a pleasant experience when they are matched with music. Around a ground-dug banner, the guys start to dance.

On rare occasions, this sort of dancing is typically performed as a ritual. The artists are dressed quite elegantly for the Dumhal dance performance. They wear long-sleeved, vividly coloured clothing. What is notable about their attire is the appearance of a conical cap. Their typical headwear is adorned with shells and diamonds. One of the most well-known folk dances performed by Kashmiris is this one. Rare occasions typically call for this kind of dancing.

Rouf Dance

Rouf is another well-known traditional dance style that is practised in Kashmir. During certain occasions like Eid and Ramadan, this dance style is performed. Although a group of women perform it while facing each other, the dancers’ intricate footwork is what makes it stand out.

The most well-known dance in all of Jammu and Kashmir is called “Rouf,” which is typically pronounced “ruf” in rural areas and “row” in urban ones. It is a dance that is done on the occasion of spring and has long been a crucial aspect of Kashmiri culture.

Bhand Pather

It is a form of Theatre dance performed in Kashmir. This dance form does not only include dance but also include plays between dances that captivates the audience. It shows the normal lives, traditions and evils prevailing in the society.

Bacha Nagma

This additional dance style, which is exclusively performed by boys, is typically presented at cultural events or formal occasions like weddings. This dance can be performed by men, but they must be dressed like boys. It has a maximum of six to seven members and no outside singer.

Due to the fact that majority of the vocalists are young dancers, one of them takes the main role and sings in a lovely voice while the other dancers join in the chorus.

Dancers’ outfits resemble Kathak dancers’ outfits in several ways. This dancing style is also referred to in some regions as “Bachha Gyavaun,” which means young harmonious voice.

Hafiza Dance

It is a dance that is performed at weddings and is a form of Kashmiri traditional dance. There is a special instrument used in this dance known as Santoor that contains almost hundred strings and is played with the help of sticks.

Bhand Jashan

Bhand Jashan is a very soothing dance with very light music and performed in traditional style by ten to fifteen dancers.

[Writer Agrita Chhibber is from Jammu]

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