Folk Dance of Andhra Pradesh

Indian folk and tribal dances range from simple, joyous celebrations of the seasons of the harvest, or the birth of a child to ritualistic dances to propitiate demons and invoke spirits.
There are dances involving balancing tricks with pitchers full of water, or jugglery with knives. Other dances highlight activities like ploughing, threshing and fishing.
The costumes are generally flamboyant with extensive use of jewelry by both the sexes. Some dances are performed exclusively by men and Women, but most have them dancing together. Nearly all involve singing by the dancers.
The drum is the most common of the folk instruments that provide musical accompaniment to these dances.

Folk Dance means Performing Art of Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh is rich in traditional folk Art Forms, which have provided popular entertainment for the common folk, imparting instruction, while providing entertainment, alongside classical forms of dance and drama for a considerable period in history.
The folk Performing Arts had filled an important lacuna in the otherwise mundane lives of the people.
There are two major types of folk dance forms –

One that is pure rhythmic forms (the rhythm being provided by an instrument) without any accompanying song; Ex:- Butta Bommalu, Gargalu and Veera Natyam, Dappula Nrityam
The other that couples dance with story Narration in which the dance content is more important than the narration of a story. Ex- Kolatam, Chakka Bhajana and Tappetagullu

Dappula Nrityam belongs to the first category. There are also some forms in which the rhythmic accompaniment of a percussion instrument becomes the base of a dance, but there is also minimal singing.
While Butta Bommalu, Gargalu and Veera Natyam belong to the first category where there is dance without any signing; such forms as Gitravayya Nrityam and Urnmula Nrityam have some initiatory music.
At the other extreme are the second categories of dances which combine rhythmic dance movements with musical narration: Kolatam, Chakka Bhajana and Tappetagullu are such forms which happily combined musical narration and dance.

Major Folk Dance of Andra Pradesh

Veera Natyam

Among the several rituals in the Veera Saiva cult that dominate the festive occasions and incite the devotees, the Veera Natyam is the most important.
The external manifestations of bhakti are prominent during these festivals. Some of them are very ferocious and incite awe and fear.
In this the dancers tie oneself with long, sharp intertwined ropes (Veera tallu), to insert sharp and pointed instruments through the cheeks, the tongue and the lips and render eulogistic entreaties in praise of Lord Siva are common to Veera Saiva rituals.
Veera Natyam has long been a part of this whole ritual, but now a days is taken out of the context and is shown as a separate dance form.

Kuchipudi – Folk Dance of Andhra Pradesh

Kuchipudi is an outstanding dance form which originated in Andhra Pradesh.
Kuchipudi is not just a dance however it is a fine combination of song, speech, gestures, and dance.
A Kuchipudi dancer must have proficiency in various languages, music, acting, dancing, and texts.
Siddhendra Yogi in the 17th century started Kuchipudi dance form at the time of Bhakti Movement.

Gobbi Folk Dance

This is one of the fashionable dance forms from coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh.
Gobbi dance is the main Magnetism during the Samkranti festival and during this time, the courtyards of all houses are cleaned and decorated.
The flowers of Gobi Dance are used with different kinds of rangavallis, for decoration purposes.
Gobbillu i.e. balls of cow dung are positioned in the middle of these rangavalli designs.
In the evening, young girls assemble around this gobbillu to dance and sing.
One can say that this dance is a derivative form of Garba dance performed in circular direction.

Kolatam Folk Dance

Kolatam is known as Danda Rasakam, Danda Nartanam, Vestitam and Halli Sakam in different parts of the country, Kolatam is a popular dance in all parts of Andhra Pradesh.
It is also called Kolannalu, Kollamata and Kolanna in other parts of the state.
Though we have literary evidence to show that Kolatam dance was widespread more among the ladies at one time, this is now mostly performed by men only.
Similar dance form in Gujarat is called ‘Dandia’. “Urumulu” means thunder.
As it gives a echoing thunderous Sound, the instrument and the dance that accompanies its rhythm are known as “Urumu” and “Urumula Nrithyam”.
It is widely prevalent in Anantapur and Kurnool districts and is popular in Saiva festivals.
This Dance is also performed in Jangamma and Timmamma festivals and during the worship of such deities as Bommayya and Veeranarayana Swami.

Tappeta Folk Dance

Tappeta Gullu is widely popular in the extreme northern districts of Srikakulam, Vizianagaram and Visakhapatnam, Tappeta gullu is a celebratory dance, presented in honour or Gangamma, the water deity by the Yadava community.
The dance gets its name from the instrument used by the performers – the “Tappeta Gundlu” which is made either by tin or wood, almost in the form of a cone and is covered by leather.
The instrument is hung round the neck with a small rope and is played with both the hands.

Mathuri Folk Dance

The Mathuri dances are extraordinary tribal dances by the Mathuri tribes, of the Adilabad district of the Andhra Pradesh, performed during the rainy month of Shravana.
Mathuri dance is a dance in which men and women folk participate together, women participants forming the inner circle and men the outer semi-circle.
The dancers sing themselves devotional and secular songs while dancing.

Garagalu / Garika /Veta Natyam

Garagalu is Known also as Garika, which is especially popular in East and West Godavari districts with that name. ‘Garaga’ means a vessel – usually an earthen-ware.
The Garaga, an important and sacred vessel which symbolizes the synthesizing of earth, water and sed, occupies an important role in all wedding celebrations.
Besides, in all village festivals, the pujari carries a large Garaga on his head in which devotees put rice, curd and other eatables as a part of fulfillment of their oath.
The vessel occupies a similar place in rural festivals as the ‘Utsava Vigrahas’ have in temple festivals. Puli Vesham is a popular entertainment in Coastal Andhra villages.
Also known as ‘Veta (hunting) Nrityam , the form is one of those that imitate animals and recreate the feeling of an ancient man fighting his way through the terrifying experiences of confronting and overcoming the beasts of the forests.

Dhimsha Folk Dance

It is very popular in Andhra Pradesh
This dance is very popular among the tribes inhabiting the Araku Valley region of Vishakhapatam.
Dhimsa danceis performed by 15-20 women forming a chain.
It is generally performed in local fairs and festivals of the area.
The costumes of this dance are typical tribal cloths with proper ornamentation.

Other Various Dances Folk Dances

Butta BommaluDance– This is a fashionable dance form in Tanaku of west Godavari Districtof Andhra Pradesh. Each dancer used to wear dissimilar masks over the head and shoulders.

BathakammaDance– Bathakammas are mainly performed by female participants in a region, Telengana of Andhra Pradesh during the time of Bathakamma Festival of State.

Bonalu Dance:- This dance is performed by female folk balancing pots on their heads. This is performed in the Telengana region.

Veeranatyam – The Dance of the Brave Veeranatyam means the dance of Lord Shiva which was done when Lord Shiva got exasperated with the humiliation and death of Sati. Veeranatyam dance form is also called the dance of destruction. This particular dance is even now accomplished by the people who belong to Veeramusti community, that claim to be the offspring of Veerbhadra.

Andhra Pradesh is a state in south-central India. It is the seventh-largest state in India by area and the tenth-most populous. The state is home to a diverse range of cultures and languages, and its folk dances reflect this diversity.

Some of the most popular folk dances of Andhra Pradesh include:

Allam: This dance is performed by men and women in a circle. The dancers hold hands and move in a rhythmic pattern, while singing and clapping. The dance is often performed at weddings and other celebrations.
Bommalata: This dance is performed by women. The dancers wear colorful costumes and hold a pot of flowers in their hands. They move in a graceful manner, while singing about love and beauty.
Chhattis: This dance is performed by men and women. The dancers wear traditional costumes and hold sticks in their hands. They move in a lively manner, while singing about war and victory.
Dumki: This dance is performed by men. The dancers wear colorful costumes and hold drums in their hands. They move in a rhythmic manner, while singing about love and loss.
Jati: This dance is performed by women. The dancers wear traditional costumes and hold pots of water in their hands. They move in a graceful manner, while singing about fertility and motherhood.
Jogi: This dance is performed by men. The dancers wear colorful costumes and hold sticks in their hands. They move in a lively manner, while singing about love and loss.
Kalam: This dance is performed by men. The dancers wear colorful costumes and hold swords in their hands. They move in a rhythmic manner, while singing about war and victory.
Kokila: This dance is performed by women. The dancers wear colorful costumes and hold fans in their hands. They move in a graceful manner, while singing about love and beauty.
Krishna: This dance is performed by men and women. The dancers wear traditional costumes and hold flutes in their hands. They move in a rhythmic manner, while singing about the life of Krishna.
Lambani: This dance is performed by women. The dancers wear colorful costumes and hold scarves in their hands. They move in a graceful manner, while singing about love and beauty.
Mrugavani: This dance is performed by women. The dancers wear colorful costumes and hold peacock feathers in their hands. They move in a graceful manner, while singing about love and beauty.
Nautch: This dance is performed by women. The dancers wear colorful costumes and hold fans in their hands. They move in a graceful manner, while singing about love and beauty.
Padukalam: This dance is performed by men and women. The dancers wear traditional costumes and hold sticks in their hands. They move in a rhythmic manner, while singing about war and victory.
Puli: This dance is performed by men. The dancers wear colorful costumes and hold masks of tigers in their hands. They move in a lively manner, while singing about the life of Krishna.
Ranga: This dance is performed by men and women. The dancers wear traditional costumes and hold sticks in their hands. They move in a rhythmic manner, while singing about war and victory.
Samba: This dance is performed by men and women. The dancers wear colorful costumes and hold drums in their hands. They move in a lively manner, while singing about love and loss.
Sashti: This dance is performed by women. The dancers wear traditional costumes and hold pots of water in their hands. They move in a graceful manner, while singing about fertility and motherhood.
Thota: This dance is performed by men. The dancers wear colorful costumes and hold sticks in their hands. They move in a lively manner, while singing about love and loss.
Vaddi: This dance is performed by men. The dancers wear colorful costumes and hold swords in their hands. They move in a rhythmic manner, while singing about war and victory.
Veera: This dance is performed by men. The dancers wear colorful costumes and hold shields and swords in their hands. They move in a rhythmic manner, while singing about war and victory.
Yakshagana/”>Yakshagana: This dance-drama is performed by men. The dancers wear colorful costumes and masks and enact stories from Hindu mythology.

These are just a few of the many folk dances of Andhra Pradesh. Each dance has its own unique style and story, and they all reflect the rich culture and history of the state.

What is folk dance?

Folk dance is a traditional dance that is passed down from generation to generation. It is often performed at festivals and other special occasions. Folk dances can be very different from one region to another, but they all share a common purpose: to bring people together and celebrate their culture.

What are some of the most popular folk dances in Andhra Pradesh?

Some of the most popular folk dances in Andhra Pradesh include the Kuchipudi, the Bhama Kalapam, and the Lambada. The Kuchipudi is a classical dance that is performed by both men and women. The Bhama Kalapam is a folk dance that is performed by women only. The Lambada is a folk dance that is performed by couples.

What are the costumes and music used in folk dance?

The costumes and music used in folk dance vary from region to region. However, there are some common Elements. For example, many folk dances use colorful costumes that are made from traditional materials. The music for folk dance is often played on traditional instruments, such as drums, flutes, and cymbals.

What are the steps and movements of folk dance?

The steps and movements of folk dance vary from dance to dance. However, there are some common elements. For example, many folk dances involve a lot of jumping and stomping. The movements of folk dance are often very energetic and lively.

What are the benefits of folk dance?

There are many benefits to folk dance. It is a great way to get exercise, it can help you learn about your culture, and it can be a lot of fun. Folk dance can also help you improve your coordination, balance, and flexibility.

How can I learn folk dance?

There are many ways to learn folk dance. You can take classes at a local dance studio, you can watch Videos online, or you can even learn from a friend or family member. The most important thing is to find a method that works for you and to have fun!

Sure, here are some MCQs without mentioning the topic Folk Dance of Andhra Pradesh:

Which of the following is not a folk dance of Andhra Pradesh?
(A) Kuchipudi
(B) Bhangra
(C) Lambada
(D) Jhumar
Which of the following is a folk dance of Andhra Pradesh that is performed by women?
(A) Kuchipudi
(B) Bhangra
(C) Lambada
(D) Jhumar
Which of the following is a folk dance of Andhra Pradesh that is performed by men?
(A) Kuchipudi
(B) Bhangra
(C) Lambada
(D) Jhumar
Which of the following is a folk dance of Andhra Pradesh that is performed by both men and women?
(A) Kuchipudi
(B) Bhangra
(C) Lambada
(D) Jhumar
Which of the following is a folk dance of Andhra Pradesh that is performed during festivals?
(A) Kuchipudi
(B) Bhangra
(C) Lambada
(D) Jhumar
Which of the following is a folk dance of Andhra Pradesh that is performed during weddings?
(A) Kuchipudi
(B) Bhangra
(C) Lambada
(D) Jhumar
Which of the following is a folk dance of Andhra Pradesh that is performed during other special occasions?
(A) Kuchipudi
(B) Bhangra
(C) Lambada
(D) Jhumar
Which of the following is a folk dance of Andhra Pradesh that is performed in a group?
(A) Kuchipudi
(B) Bhangra
(C) Lambada
(D) Jhumar
Which of the following is a folk dance of Andhra Pradesh that is performed solo?
(A) Kuchipudi
(B) Bhangra
(C) Lambada
(D) Jhumar
Which of the following is a folk dance of Andhra Pradesh that is performed in a circle?
(A) Kuchipudi
(B) Bhangra
(C) Lambada
(D) Jhumar