Introduction: 29 states and their dance forms

India’s rich cultural legacy and customs are well-known. Dance has been a part of life from prehistoric times to the most affluent communities.

Indian dance forms are divided into two types: classical and folk. According to local custom, these dance traditions have arisen in different locations in India.

There are many different types of folk dances, but the most popular ones can be generally classified into two types:

Rural or village folk dances

These are folk dances specific to particular villages or regions and reflect the cultural values and traditions of those places. They usually involve simple steps and movements that are easy to learn and perform.

Urban folk dances

These are folk dances that were initially rural but have now been adopted by city dwellers. They are more elaborate and involve more complicated steps and movements.

What Is Indian Dance All About?

Indian dance, both folk and tribal, are simple demonstrations of joy performed to commemorate events such as the changing of the seasons, the birth of a child, marriages, and festivals. Folk art is a type of art owned by a group of people or a region. The creators’ identity has been lost through time, yet the style has endured.

The majority of the time, dancers sing themselves, accompanied by musicians. Each type of folk dance has its outfit and rhythm, and some of the costumes are incredibly colourful, with many gems and intricate designs.

Given India’s incredible diversity, it’s no surprise that the cultural components that flow through the country are equally diverse and different. Every state in India has its own distinct identity, whether in food or clothes, language or religion, dance or music. The following list of unique dance traditions from India’s 29 states symbolises the expanse of Indian culture and adds to this diversity.

• Andhra Pradesh- Kuchipudi
• Uttar Pradesh- Kathak
• Assam- Sattriya
• Rajasthan- Ghoomar
• Assam- Bihu
• Jammu and Kashmir- Rouf
• Bihar- Bidesia
• Gujarat Garba
• Kerala- Kathakali
• Arunachal Pradesh- Bardo Chham
• Manipur- Manipuri dance (Jagoi)
• Nagaland- Chang- Lo
• Chhattisgarh Karma Naach
• Goa- Dekhni
• Haryana- Saang
• Meghalaya- Laho
• Himachal Pradesh- Nati
• Jharkhand- Paika
• Karnataka- Dollu Kunitha
• Mizoram- Cheraw
• Madhya Pradesh- Maanch
• Maharashtra- Lavani
• Odisha- Odissi
• Uttarakhand- Choliya Dance
• Telangana- Dandari
• Punjab- Bhangra
• Sikkim- Singhi Chaam
• Tamil Nadu- Bharatanatyam
• Tripura- Hojagiri
• West Bengal- Chhau

The Many Dancing Styles Of The Indian States

There are 29 states in India, each with its distinct dance form. Each form has a long and rich history, often dating back to the ancient Vedic period. While the dances of some states may share similarities, each one is unique in its way. 

Some of the more popular Indian dance forms include Kathak from Uttar Pradesh, Bharatanatyam from Tamil Nadu, Odissi from Odisha, and Manipuri from Manipur. Each of these forms tells a story, often through lyrical movements and graceful gestures. 

Some other folk dances of Indian states are

Himachal Pradesh

Khaki, Jhora, Dhaman,  Chharhi, Jhali, Chapel.

Rajasthan

Ghumar, Kalbeliya, Chakri, Jhuma, Ghapal, Ganagor, Jhulan Leela, Suisini.

Punjab

Buddha, Bhangra, Bhand, Daff, Dhaman

Andhra Pradesh

Dhimsa, Vilasini Natyam, Dappu, Bhamakalpam, Kolattam, Lambadi, Veeranatyam, Tappeta Gullu.

Manipur

Pung Cholom, Dol Cholam, Lai Haraoba, Thang-Ta.

Uttar Pradesh

Nautanki, Jhora, Raslila, Kajri, Chappeli

Maharashtra

Gafa, Nakata, Koli, Lavani, Dahikala Dasavtar, Lezim

Sikkim

Chu Faat, Tashi Yangku, Sikmari, Yak Chaam, Denzong Gnenha, Singhi Chaam, the Snow Lion.

Odisha

Odissi, Chhau, Savari, Chhau, Ghumara, Munari, Painka.

Mizoram

 Cheraw Dance, Chailam, Par Lam, Khuallam, Tlanglam, Sawlakin, Chawnglaizawn, Zangtalam, Sarlamkai/ Solakia

The History And Origins Of Each Dance Form

Let’s look at some of the most popular Indian classical dance forms and their origins.

Bharatanatyam

Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest classical dance forms and is believed to have originated in the state of Tamil Nadu. It is a highly technical form that involves intricate footwork, mudras (hand gestures), and nritta (pure dance).

Odissi

Odissi is another ancient classical form that originated from the state of Orissa. This dance style is characterised by its graceful poses and movements and is often considered the most dynamic of classical dances.

Kathak

Kathak, which comes from the north of India, is a lyrical and expressive form that tells stories through dance. Finally, we have Manipuri, the most feminine of all the classical dances. It originated in the state of Manipur and is characterised by its delicate movements and subtlety.

The Benefits Of Each Dance Form

Each Indian classical dance form has its unique benefits. Bharatanatyam is great for improving posture, Odissi helps with joint flexibility, and Kathakali is perfect for developing strength and stamina. As you can see, each form has something different to offer. It’s essential to find the right one for you and your own needs. When you do, you can start to enjoy the many benefits it offers.

Conclusion

If you’re interested in getting started with Indian classical dance, each state has its resources and teacher associations. It’s best to contact your nearest association and ask for guidance. They’ll be able to connect you with the right teachers and provide you with all the information you need to get started. Most of these associations also hold workshops, so it’s a great way to learn more about the dance form and meet other dancers.