Folk dances of Haryana

Ghumar Dance

Some dancers receive their inspiration from religion. The gods and the Elements are invoked to shower their blessing on the labours of a community. Ghumar is a Rajasthani dance but it is popular in Laharu, Dadri and some parts of the Hissar and Bhiwani, bordering Rajasthan. The dance is performed by Women devotees on their way to the temple. Young women and girls carrying brass plates of offerings in their hands go to the temple singing devotional songs. The dance is performed on Diwali, the festival of lights and Holi, the festivals of spring or on the occasion of the local ceremony of Gangor Puja. Brass plates in their hands, girls make a circle and start singing. The Musicians strike a chord and as soon as the tune begins to take shape and gain momentum, the dancers put their offerings aside forming a large circle and dances gracefully with uplifted arms to the simplest beats. Slowly the dance gather momentum, the swaying bodies become frantic, taking the dance to its climax.

Ras Leela

This dance from is dedicated to Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Krishna had stated that the Gopis or maids of Braj are the finest examples of human beings. The dance is very common and extremely popular in the Braja area of Faridabad district. In this dance, the maids dance in spiritual ecstasy around the idol of Lord Krishna, in a circular manner. The rhythm of the dance is so perfect that the anklets, bangles and bells, worn by the dancers, create the tinkling Sound in perfect unison. The dancer sways their body in complete ecstasy around Lord Krishna.

Phag Dance or Phalgun Dance

The Phag or Phalgun dance is performed by the agricultural folk of Haryana, in the months of February-March. During this time, there is a bit of leisure time for the folks, between the sowing and harvesting period. This dance celebrates the harvest of the farmers and is essentially an expression of joy and bliss. The men sport the most colourful and best of their turbans during the performance, while the women wear colourful traditional costumes. The dance is performed in the Dhamal style of Haryana, which is a combination of song and dance. There are different songs for the male and the female performers.

Loor Folk dances of Haryana

Loor is a well known dance of Haryana. It is performed around the Holi festival and is very popular in the Bangar and Bagar parts of the region. In the Dadri area the term Loor is used for a girl. The participants in this dance are all girls. The dancers stand in two rows facing each other, in the form of a semi circle. One party starts a song. The burden of the song being “Your bahu has given birth to a daughter and a son is born on this side, why not marry the two”. The dance starts with this song. For quite a while they discuss this problem. Finally the proposal is accepted. The next topic is about the presents to be given by the parents of the son to the girl at the time of marriage.

Daph dance Folk dances of Haryana

Daph dance is also a seasonal dance connected with the harvest and spring. It depicts the joyful emotions of the farmers. Men and women of all sections of the village community participate in this dance, separately. For melodic instruments the ancient Haryanavis used flutes, lutes and beens. The daph used in this dance is an ancient instrument. The songs are most suited to the occasion. The sound of the ornaments worn by the women also becomes a part of the dance-orchestra.

Gugga dance Folk dances of Haryana

Gugga Pir has several names :-Guru Gugga, Zahir Pir and Bagarwalla. Gugga is worshipped practically all over Haryana and devotees are scattered over the neighbouring states of Rajasthan, Punjab and Himachal. The Pir was born on Bhadon Naumi at Dadreva village in Bikaner (Rajasthan). The day is celebrated as Gugga Naumi allover northern India. Gugga is said to be a Chauhan Rajput. Colonel Tod is of the view that his name was Bachraj. According to a folk legend he was married to Kumari Sirial, daughter of Raja Sanjha of Kamrup He is equally worshipped by both Hindus and Muslims. About a week or two Before Gugga Naumi, his devotees take out a procession, led by a bhagat ,carrying Gugga Kichhari. It is a strong and long bamboo stick decorated with fans, garlands, flowers and coloured pieces of cloth .Five Bhagats are the Main dancers. They carry their own Musical instruments in their hands, consisting of Dholak, Manjiras, Deru (a small side drum), Chimta and Cymbals. The bhagats sing a song in praise of Gugga.

Khoria Dance Folk dances of Haryana

The Khoria dance is a variant of the Jhumar dance and is exclusively performed by women. This dance is very popular in certain parts of central Haryana. The dancers wear gleaming gold-work skirts and colourful chunries. One of the dancers begins by singing a folk song and is followed by the rest of the dancers to form a circular arrangement. The performance slowly gains momentum, until some of the dancers break away from the circle and begin to sway their bodies. The performance is related to the daily lives and harvest of the local people.

Holi Dance Folk dances of Haryana

The Holi dance is performed on the occasion of Holi, in the spring season. This dance is very popular in Faridabad, Pulwal and Ballabhgarh. It is performed by both men and women. It has various formations and variations, the most popular being the free style variety. Instruments such as Chimta, Khartal, Jhajh, Dhol, Thalis and the anklets on the feet of the dancers create a beautiful rhythm. There is an Atmosphere and mood of Light heartedness during the performance of this dance.

Gangor Puja Folk dances of Haryana

The Gangor Puja dance is usually performed in the months of Phalgun and Chaitra and is dedicated to Iswar (Lord Shiva) and Gangor (Goddess Parvati). It is performed during the Puja ceremony held to worship the Gods for a rich harvest the following years. The dance festival is especially popular in the areas surrounding the border of Rajasthan. The dance is performed for hours by the women, who adorn themselves with colourful dresses and jewellery, and carry brass jars on their heads and move in a circle. The dancing pattern changes in accordance to the music and smile is considered to be an important element of this performance. In some occasions, the dance usually takes the form of a Kirtan, dedicated to the deities.,

Folk Dances of Haryana

Haryana is a state in northern India. It is known for its rich culture and traditions, including its folk dances. Some of the most popular folk dances of Haryana are Bhangra, Giddha, Jhumar, Loorhi, Sawan ki Ghat, Dhol Nach, Kaali Jori, Chhattis, Sangria, and Dandiya Raas.

Bhangra

Bhangra is a folk dance that originated in the Punjab region of India and Pakistan. It is a vigorous dance that is often performed at weddings and other celebrations. Bhangra is typically performed by men, but women can also participate. The dance is accompanied by music played on drums, dhols, and other instruments.

Giddha

Giddha is a folk dance that is performed by women in Haryana. It is a lively dance that is often performed at weddings and other celebrations. Giddha is typically performed in a circle, with the women holding hands and moving their feet in a rhythmic pattern. The dance is accompanied by music played on drums, dhols, and other instruments.

Jhumar

Jhumar is a folk dance that is performed by men and women in Haryana. It is a lively dance that is often performed at weddings and other celebrations. Jhumar is typically performed in a circle, with the dancers moving their feet in a rhythmic pattern. The dance is accompanied by music played on drums, dhols, and other instruments.

Loorhi

Loorhi is a folk dance that is performed by women in Haryana. It is a graceful dance that is often performed at weddings and other celebrations. Loorhi is typically performed in a line, with the women holding hands and moving their feet in a rhythmic pattern. The dance is accompanied by music played on drums, dhols, and other instruments.

Sawan ki Ghat

Sawan ki Ghat is a folk dance that is performed by women in Haryana. It is a romantic dance that is often performed during the monsoon season. Sawan ki Ghat is typically performed in a circle, with the women holding hands and moving their feet in a rhythmic pattern. The dance is accompanied by music played on drums, dhols, and other instruments.

Dhol Nach

Dhol Nach is a folk dance that is performed by men in Haryana. It is a vigorous dance that is often performed at weddings and other celebrations. Dhol Nach is typically performed in a circle, with the men holding hands and moving their feet in a rhythmic pattern. The dance is accompanied by music played on drums, dhols, and other instruments.

Kaali Jori

Kaali Jori is a folk dance that is performed by women in Haryana. It is a dance of mourning that is often performed during the festival of Holi. Kaali Jori is typically performed in a line, with the women holding hands and moving their feet in a rhythmic pattern. The dance is accompanied by music played on drums, dhols, and other instruments.

Chhattis

Chhattis is a folk dance that is performed by women in Haryana. It is a dance of celebration that is often performed during the festival of Teej. Chhattis is typically performed in a circle, with the women holding hands and moving their feet in a rhythmic pattern. The dance is accompanied by music played on drums, dhols, and other instruments.

Sangria

Sangria is a folk dance that is performed by men and women in Haryana. It is a dance of love that is often performed during the festival of Basant Panchami. Sangria is typically performed in a line, with the men and women holding hands and moving their feet in a rhythmic pattern. The dance is accompanied by music played on drums, dhols, and other instruments.

Dandiya Raas

Dandiya Raas is a folk dance that is performed by men and women in Haryana. It is a dance of love that is often performed during the festival of Navratri. Dandiya Raas is typically performed in a circle, with the men and women holding sticks and moving their feet in a rhythmic pattern. The dance is accompanied by music played on drums, dhols, and other instruments.

These are just a few of the many folk dances that are performed in Haryana. Each dance has its own unique style and rhythm, and they all reflect the rich culture and traditions of the state.

Here are some frequently asked questions and short answers about folk dances of Haryana:

What are the folk dances of Haryana?

The folk dances of Haryana are a diverse and vibrant part of the state’s culture. Some of the most popular folk dances include the Ghumar, the Jhumar, and the Bhangra.

What are the characteristics of folk dances of Haryana?

The folk dances of Haryana are characterized by their lively rhythms, energetic movements, and colorful costumes. They are often performed at weddings, festivals, and other special occasions.

What are the origins of folk dances of Haryana?

The folk dances of Haryana have a long and rich history. They are believed to have originated in the ancient times and have been passed down through generations.

What are the social and cultural significance of folk dances of Haryana?

The folk dances of Haryana are an important part of the state’s culture. They are a way for people to express their joy, happiness, and love. They are also a way for people to connect with their roots and heritage.

What are the challenges faced by folk dances of Haryana?

One of the biggest challenges faced by folk dances of Haryana is the lack of awareness about them. Many people are not aware of the rich history and culture of the state’s folk dances. Another challenge is the lack of government support for folk dance troupes.

What are the initiatives taken to promote folk dances of Haryana?

There are a number of initiatives being taken to promote folk dances of Haryana. Some of these initiatives include the establishment of folk dance schools, the organization of folk dance festivals, and the promotion of folk dance through the media.

What is the future of folk dances of Haryana?

The future of folk dances of Haryana is bright. With the increasing awareness about the state’s culture and the government’s support for folk dance troupes, the folk dances of Haryana are sure to continue to thrive.

What are some of the benefits of Learning folk dances of Haryana?

There are many benefits of learning folk dances of Haryana. Some of these benefits include:

It is a great way to stay fit and healthy.
It is a great way to learn about the state’s culture and heritage.
It is a great way to connect with people from different cultures.
It is a great way to have fun and enjoy yourself.
Where can I learn folk dances of Haryana?

There are many places where you can learn folk dances of Haryana. Some of these places include:

Folk dance schools
Community centers
Government-run cultural centers
Private dance schools
How much does it cost to learn folk dances of Haryana?

The cost of learning folk dances of Haryana varies depending on the place where you learn it. However, it is generally a very affordable activity.

Sure, here are some MCQs about folk dances of Haryana:

Which of the following is not a folk dance of Haryana?
(A) Ghumar
(B) Jhumar
(C) Bhangra
(D) Garba
Which of the following is the most popular folk dance of Haryana?
(A) Ghumar
(B) Jhumar
(C) Bhangra
(D) Garba
Ghumar is a folk dance that is performed by women. True or False?
Jhumar is a folk dance that is performed by men. True or False?
Bhangra is a folk dance that is performed by both men and women. True or False?
Garba is a folk dance that is performed in the state of Gujarat. True or False?
The folk dances of Haryana are a reflection of the state’s rich culture and heritage. True or False?
The folk dances of Haryana are performed on special occasions such as weddings, festivals, and religious ceremonies. True or False?
The folk dances of Haryana are a source of entertainment and joy for the people of the state. True or False?
The folk dances of Haryana are a way for the people of the state to express their love for their culture and heritage. True or False?

I hope these MCQs were helpful!