Folk Dances of India: State-Wise Compilation

Introduction

India's folk dances represent the vibrant, living traditions of its diverse communities. Unlike classical forms bound by the Natya Shastra, folk dances are spontaneous expressions of daily life-celebrating harvests, seasons, festivals, and social occasions. This note provides a state-wise compilation vital for UPSC Prelims and Mains GS Paper 1.

State-Wise Classification

Andhra Pradesh

• Kuchipudi: Classical, but also performed in folk style by villages
• Vilasini Natyam: Temple dance tradition
• Butta Bomma: Puppet dance
• Tappeta Gullu: Devotional dance performed by men
• Dappu: Percussion-based dance from Telangana region
• Lambadi: Banjara tribe dance with vibrant costumes

Arunachal Pradesh

• Buiya: Performed during Solung festival (Adi tribe)
• Chalo: War dance of Nocte tribe
• Pasi Kongki: Adi tribe harvest dance
• Ponung: Women's dance during Solung festival
• Roppi / Rimo: Ceremonial dance of Wancho tribe

Assam

• Bihu: Most famous-celebrates Assamese New Year (Bohag Bihu)
• Bhortal: Drum dance of Barpeta district
• Jhumur: Tea tribe community dance
• Deodhani: Shakta tradition dance
• Bagurumba: Bodo tribe dance (copied by bird movements)

Bihar

• Jhijhiya: Women's dance during Durga Puja
• Jat-Jatin: Marital...