Folk Dances of Goa

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Folk Dances of Goa

  • Folklores bind the present with the past and keep the continuity of civilization.
  • The originality of folklores has pleasantly surprised even most erudite scholars and litterateurs.
  • Goa has a unique cultural heritage, rich and lively and it is known for several folk festivals and performances.
  • Many castes, sub-castes and tribes mingled in its social texture in Goa’s long history & this presents a wide diversity of folk arts that incarnate its traditions, customs, convictions and culture.
  • Goa has been inhabited by many racial stocks.
  • No other region in India perhaps has had such a wide variety of political regimes.
  • The various rules introduced their life styles & cultural influences of which, the marks are vividly to be seen in the races and the rulers, there have been the in comers for Trade and Commerce and the men of the armed forces drawn from different cultural groups.
  • During the history spanning over 2,000 years of life, Goa has been shaped by the Bhojas, Shilaharas, Rashtrakutas, Kadambas, Vijaynagar rulers, Adilshahi and finally The Portuguese.
  • The changing colours of history have left their multiple and lovely shades on the Goan life and folk art has not been an exception to it.
  • The traditional Folk Music and dances have continued uninterruptedly, while the influence of the Portuguese music and dance on the local culture has helped evolve new forms.
  • This happy blending and co-existence of cultural traditions gives a unique character the music and folk dances of Goa.
  • The diversity of these cultural influences makes Goa distinctive although it Shares in a general way the culture of the coastal Konkan strip.
  • Among the innumerable folk dances and forms encountered in Goa include

 

  1. Talgadi,
  2. Goff,
  3. Tonya Mel,
  4. Mando,
  5. Kunbi dance,
  6. Suvari,
  7. Dasarawadan,
  8. Virabhadra,
  9. Hanpeth,
  10. Gauda jagar,
  11. Ranmale,
  12. Fugadi,
  13. Ghode Modni,
  14. Lamp Dance,
  15. Musal Dance,
  16. Romat or Mell,
  17. Morullem,
  18. Bhandap,
  19. Dhangar Dance,
  20. Dekhni

 

 

Ghode Modni

  • This is the name of a splendid folk dance that is largely performed in Bicholim Taluka of Goa.
  • The dances brangs back the memory of the great warriors in the past.
  • The dancers swing around with dummy horses tucked to their waists.
  • They carry swords in their hands showcasing bravery & at the same time they wear ‘ghungrus’.
  • The background music is the music of dhol and tasha

Dekhni

  • Dekhni is referred as a song cum dance.
  • This is because the song has western bearings while the dance is of Indian form.
  • It is only the Women dancers who conduct this beautiful Dekhni dance.
  • A film producer got so enchanted by a popular Dekhni song that he made it familiar to every child of the country.
  • Whenever this dance is performed, it is done with ghumat.

DHANGAR DANCE

  • Hangars form a community of shepherds who worship a folk god named as Bira Deva.
  • They believe in rituals and various celebrations.
  • They celebrate with dances on dhol and flute.
  • The dances they perform are usually dedicated to Shri Radha & Krishna.
  • The costumes they were are named as Kathiawari white dress.

GOFF TALGADI AND SHIGMO

  • They are awesome and beautiful folk dances that are a part of Spring jubilation and they are basically performed to spread festive mood and happiness among the peasants.
  • These dances are mainly performed by peasants of Goa.
  • The peasants residing in Canacona Taluka perform the Goff dance. Goff consists of weaving of braid with various tints.
  • The entire dance is a symbol of extreme discipline.
  • Talgadi is also a folk dance that is performed on ghumat beats.
  • It is quite identical to the dandiya dance of Gujarat.
  • Shigmo is a dance that is performed by wearing colorful dresses and is done of the beats of dhol, tasha, cymbals, etc

MUSSAL KHEL

  • This is one of the folk inheritances which involve a song cum dance done in the praise of brave kings.
  • An important aspect associated with this dance is that it is performed by Christians to praise a Hindu King.
  • The main day when the dance is performed is the beautiful full moon day of falguna month of the Hindu calendar.
  • It is basically performed by Cholas/”>The Cholas of Chandor who were defeated by the Harihar of Vijaynagar dynasty.

ZAGOR

  • Zagor is a folk dance inherited from the Modern Marathi Theatre in Goa.
  • It consists of two formsone of which belongs to the Pernni community, while the other belongs to the Christian Gawdas.
  • Pernni Zagor concentrates on the philosophical topics based on the origin of universe.
  • On the other hand the Christian Gawdas has been taken from the contemporary village life

LAMP DANCE

  • This kind of lamps uses brass lamps and it is unique and difficult since it is basically the art and skill of the dancer who keeps the lamp on his head and uses different body movements without affecting the position of the lamp.
  • The time at which this dance is performed is the time of the Shigmo festival.
  • The various instruments that are used for this kind of dance are Cymbal, Ghumat, Haronium, and Samel.
  • The songs used are the traditional folk songs and the main regions wherein this dance is performed are the southern and central regions of Goa.

Fugdi AND DHALO

  • These folk dances are basically performed by women and they are quite common.
  • The pace of Dhalo is slow while that of while that of Fugdi is fast.
  • The pattern followed by the Fugdi dance is circular and in Dhalo a dozen of women dance having their faces in front of each other.
  • Both these folk dances are performed on Marathi and Konkani songs.

VEERBHADRA

  • Veerbhadra is known as the son of Lord Shiva and he is also referred as the burning flame.
  • This dance is actually performed on Dhalo Mand’s fifth day.
  • The dance is performed while holding swords and and the instruments that are played include dhol and tasha.

KUNBI SONGS AND DANCE

  • Kunbi songs and dances are actually played by the primitive settlers in Goa that delineate ancient traditions.
  • The songs belong to the Portuguese era and they are basically for the enjoyment of the dancers.

MORULEM

  • Morulem is a popular dance in which dancers dance on old & traditional songs to please their deities.
  • The costume of the dancers includes flower garlands as well as peacock feathers adorning the heads.

ROMAT

  • This dance is accompanied by drum beats following a wonderful rhythm.
  • The dancers dance amidst big banners, batons and umbrellas as well as festooned sticks.

TONYAMEL

  • This is folk dance performed by peasants working on farms to celebrate the festivities of good harvest.
  • The dance is performed in very vigorous and aggressive movements and with lots of noise and Sound.
  • The dance is a kind of homage paid to the Mother Nature and is quite fascinating.

SUVARI

  • This dance involves vibrant rhythms, music and taals which add a lot of eagerness to it.
  • It is performed for religious festivals and related events.
  • The instruments used in it are cymbals, ghumat, surt, shehnai and shamel.
  • All through Goa, This dance is performed with much cheer.

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Folk Dances of Goa

Goa is a state in western India with a rich cultural heritage. The state is home to a number of different ethnic groups, each with its own unique customs and traditions. One of the most important aspects of Goan culture is its folk dance.

Goan folk dance is a vibrant and colorful tradition that has been passed down through generations. The dances are often performed at weddings, festivals, and other special occasions. They are a way for people to come together and celebrate their culture.

There are many different types of Goan folk dance, each with its own unique style and characteristics. Some of the most popular dances include:

  • Dand-Tiatr: This is a lively dance that is often performed at weddings and other celebrations. The dancers move in a circle, clapping their hands and singing.
  • Dhol-Polka: This is a fast-paced dance that is popular among young people. The dancers move in a line, jumping and twirling.
  • Fado: This is a soulful dance that is often performed at funerals and other somber occasions. The dancers move slowly and gracefully, expressing their grief through their movements.
  • Khol: This is a traditional dance that is performed by men. The dancers wear masks and carry drums, which they use to create a rhythmic beat.
  • Mumbai Goan: This is a modern dance that is popular among young people. The dancers move to the beat of popular music, often Bollywood songs.
  • Nachni: This is a dance that is performed by women. The dancers wear colorful costumes and move their bodies in a graceful and seductive manner.
  • Sai Bhajan: This is a devotional dance that is performed in honor of the Hindu saint Sai Baba. The dancers sing hymns and move their bodies in a rhythmic manner.
  • Shivaratri: This is a Hindu festival that celebrates the god Shiva. During the festival, people dance and sing in honor of the god.
  • Tiatr: This is a form of theater that is popular in Goa. The plays are often based on social issues and are accompanied by music and dance.
  • Zarzuela: This is a type of musical theater that is popular in Goa. The plays are often based on historical events and are accompanied by music and dance.

Goan folk dance is a vibrant and colorful tradition that is an important part of the state’s culture. The dances are a way for people to come together and celebrate their culture. They are also a way for people to express their emotions, whether it be joy, sorrow, or love.

If you ever have the opportunity to see a Goan folk dance, be sure to take it. It is an experience that you will not soon forget.

Here are some frequently asked questions about folk dances:

  • What is a folk dance?
    A folk dance is a traditional dance that is passed down from generation to generation. It is usually performed by a group of people and is often associated with a particular region or culture.

  • What are some of the most popular folk dances in the world?
    Some of the most popular folk dances in the world include the waltz, the tango, the flamenco, and the samba.

  • What are some of the characteristics of folk dances?
    Folk dances are often characterized by their simple steps, their use of traditional music, and their association with a particular region or culture.

  • What are some of the benefits of Learning folk dances?
    Learning folk dances can provide a number of benefits, including:

    • Increased physical activity
    • Improved coordination
    • Socialization
    • Cultural awareness

  • Where can I learn folk dances?
    There are many places where you can learn folk dances, including:

    • Community centers
    • Dance studios
    • Folk dance groups
    • Online Resources

  • What are some of the challenges of learning folk dances?
    Some of the challenges of learning folk dances include:

    • The steps can be complex
    • The music can be difficult to follow
    • You may need to learn a new language

  • What are some tips for learning folk dances?
    Some tips for learning folk dances include:

    • Start with simple dances
    • Practice regularly
    • Find a good teacher
    • Be patient

  • What are some of the most common mistakes people make when learning folk dances?
    Some of the most common mistakes people make when learning folk dances include:

    • Not practicing enough
    • Not paying attention to the music
    • Not following the steps correctly

  • What are some of the resources available for learning folk dances?
    There are many resources available for learning folk dances, including:

    • Books
    • Videos
    • Websites
    • Folk dance groups

  • What are some of the etiquette rules for folk dances?
    Some of the etiquette rules for folk dances include:

    • Dress appropriately
    • Be respectful of other dancers
    • Don’t hog the dance floor
    • Have fun!

Sure, here are some MCQs on the following topics:

  • The history of Goa:

  • Goa was ruled by the Portuguese for how many years?
    (A) 450 years
    (B) 500 years
    (C) 600 years
    (D) 700 years

  • The Portuguese first arrived in Goa in what year?
    (A) 1498
    (B) 1500
    (C) 1502
    (D) 1504

  • The Portuguese were finally expelled from Goa in what year?
    (A) 1947
    (B) 1949
    (C) 1951
    (D) 1954

  • The culture of Goa:

  • The Official Language of Goa is what?
    (A) Konkani
    (B) Marathi
    (C) Portuguese
    (D) English

  • The main religion of Goa is what?
    (A) Hinduism-2/”>Hinduism
    (B) Christianity
    (C) Islam
    (D) Buddhism-2/”>Buddhism

  • What is the name of the famous Goan dish made with rice, fish, and coconut?
    (A) Vindaloo
    (B) Fish curry
    (C) Xacuti
    (D) Sambar

  • The economy of Goa:

  • What is the main Source Of Income for Goa?
    (A) Tourism
    (B) agriculture
    (C) Fishing
    (D) Manufacturing

  • What is the name of the international airport in Goa?
    (A) Dabolim Airport
    (B) Goa International Airport
    (C) Vasco Da Gama Airport
    (D) Margao Airport

  • What is the name of the main river in Goa?
    (A) Mandovi River
    (B) Zuari River
    (C) Sal River
    (D) Terekhol River

  • The people of Goa:

  • What is the Population of Goa?
    (A) 1.5 million
    (B) 2 million
    (C) 2.5 million
    (D) 3 million

  • What is the Average age of the population of Goa?
    (A) 25 years
    (B) 30 years
    (C) 35 years
    (D) 40 years

  • What is the Literacy rate in Goa?
    (A) 90%
    (B) 95%
    (C) 100%
    (D) 105%

I hope these MCQs were helpful!