Folk dances of uttar pradesh

Charkula Dance

One of the most spectacular folk dances of Uttar Pradesh which is widely popular in the Braj region of western Uttar Pradesh. It’s a tough act of balance where a veiled woman dancer performs with a 108 oil lamps on her head placed on a wooden pyramid platform. The songs are primarily written to praise and revere Lord Krishna who was born in this region.

The dance is usually performed on the third day of the famous Hindu festival of Holi. It is said that, Radha was born on this day and since then Charkula dance is performed in Braj. Due to the placement of lighted earthen oil lamps, the movement in this dance form are swift and graceful.

Khyal

Khyal folk dance has evolved since its origin and matured into different styles which are named either on the city where they originated or on the community or author who developed them. These styles are famous across several regions with some subtle changes which help us in differentiating them from the other.

Raslila

Many of us will be familiar with Raslila which has been introduced to us through mythological stories in Bhagwad Gita. The Raslila was the act where Lord Krishna danced and sang with the gopis on the banks of river Krishna in the Vrindavan region. This art form is particularly famous in western Uttar Pradesh and portrays the life tales of Krishna ranging from his childhood till his adolescence.

The art form is colorful and glossy with graceful dance movements and facial expressions. It also captures the divine love that Gopikas from Braj (Mathura) had for Krishna. Raslila also explores the relation of Krishna and Radha whose incorruptible love for each other is revered to this very day. The folk dance is performed by mandalas (group of people) who roam from one place to another playing instruments like dholak, flute and singing the legends of Lord Krishna.

Nautanki

Nautanki is a form of street play or skit that is popular in northern side of India especially in the states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.It is said that before the entry of cinema in life of common man in India, it was the only mean prevalent for entertainment. A Nautanki is consisted of folklore and mythological dramas blended with folk songs and dances. But, now it has taken other forms too.

Kathak

The main genre of north Indian classical dance, developed under the Nawabs, the main theme being that of Krishna cavourting with the gopis. The performances rely on strong and energetic footwork around laikari, the intricate rhymthic compositions, accompanied by table.,

Uttar Pradesh is a state in northern India that is home to a rich and diverse culture. One of the most important aspects of this culture is the folk dance. Folk dances are a way for people to express themselves and their traditions, and they are often performed at weddings, festivals, and other special occasions.

There are many different types of folk dances in Uttar Pradesh, each with its own unique style and history. Some of the most popular folk dances include:

Ahir dance: This dance is performed by the Ahir community, which is a large group of people who live in the state of Uttar Pradesh. The Ahir dance is a lively and energetic dance that is often performed at weddings and other celebrations.
Bhangra: This dance is popular in the Punjab region of India, which includes parts of Uttar Pradesh. Bhangra is a fast-paced dance that is often performed to the accompaniment of drums and other instruments.
Chau dance: This dance is performed by the Women of the Jaunpur district of Uttar Pradesh. The Chau dance is a graceful and elegant dance that is often performed at weddings and other special occasions.
Dhamaal: This dance is popular in the Kumaon region of Uttar Pradesh. Dhamaal is a lively and energetic dance that is often performed to the accompaniment of drums and other instruments.
Ghoomar: This dance is popular in the Rajasthan region of India, which includes parts of Uttar Pradesh. Ghoomar is a graceful and elegant dance that is often performed by women.
Jhumar: This dance is popular in the Jharkhand region of India, which includes parts of Uttar Pradesh. Jhumar is a lively and energetic dance that is often performed to the accompaniment of drums and other instruments.
Kajri: This dance is popular in the Bundelkhand region of Uttar Pradesh. Kajri is a romantic dance that is often performed by couples.
Lavani: This dance is popular in the Maharashtra region of India, which includes parts of Uttar Pradesh. Lavani is a lively and energetic dance that is often performed to the accompaniment of drums and other instruments.
Naach: This is a general term for dance in India, and it can refer to any type of dance, including folk dances.
Raslila: This dance is based on the Hindu epic poem the Bhagavata Purana. Raslila is a dramatic dance that tells the story of Krishna’s love for Radha.
Terah taal: This is a type of folk dance that is performed in the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh. Terah taal is a lively and energetic dance that is often performed to the accompaniment of drums and other instruments.
Thumri: This is a type of Folk Music that is often accompanied by dance. Thumri is a slow and sensual dance that is often performed by women.
Wajra dance: This dance is popular in the Garhwal region of Uttar Pradesh. Wajra dance is a lively and energetic dance that is often performed to the accompaniment of drums and other instruments.
Yakshagana/”>Yakshagana: This is a type of folk theater that is popular in the Karnataka region of India, which includes parts of Uttar Pradesh. Yakshagana is a dramatic dance that tells stories from Hindu mythology.

These are just a few of the many different types of folk dances that are performed in Uttar Pradesh. Each dance has its own unique style and history, and they all play an important role in the culture of the state.

What are the different types of folk dances in Uttar Pradesh?

Uttar Pradesh is a state in northern India with a rich cultural heritage. The state is home to a diverse Population of people who speak different languages and practice different religions. This diversity is reflected in the state’s folk dances, which are as varied as the people who perform them.

Some of the most popular folk dances in Uttar Pradesh include:

The Bhangra is a vigorous dance that is performed by both men and women. It is characterized by its fast-paced movements and its use of drums and other percussion instruments.
The Garba is a dance that is performed during the Navratri festival. It is a graceful dance that is performed in a circle.
The Kathak is a classical dance that is performed by women. It is a complex dance that is characterized by its intricate footwork and its use of hand gestures.
The Lavani is a dance that is performed by women in the state of Maharashtra. It is a sensual dance that is characterized by its use of hip movements.
The Ghoomar is a dance that is performed by women in the state of Rajasthan. It is a graceful dance that is characterized by its use of veils.

What are the costumes worn for folk dances in Uttar Pradesh?

The costumes worn for folk dances in Uttar Pradesh vary depending on the type of dance being performed. However, there are some general trends that can be observed.

For example, many folk dances are performed in traditional Indian clothing. This clothing is often brightly colored and decorated with intricate embroidery. Women often wear saris, while men often wear kurtas and pyjamas.

In some cases, dancers may wear costumes that are specific to the dance they are performing. For example, dancers performing the Bhangra may wear traditional Punjabi clothing, while dancers performing the Garba may wear traditional Gujarati clothing.

What are the instruments used in folk dances in Uttar Pradesh?

A variety of instruments are used in folk dances in Uttar Pradesh. Some of the most common instruments include:

The dhol is a large drum that is used to provide the beat for many folk dances.
The tabla is a pair of small drums that are played with the hands.
The sitar is a stringed instrument that is played with a bow.
The sarangi is a stringed instrument that is played with the fingers.
The flute is a wind instrument that is played by blowing into it.

The instruments used in folk dances vary depending on the type of dance being performed. For example, the dhol is often used in dances such as the Bhangra, while the tabla is often used in dances such as the Kathak.

What are the steps involved in folk dances in Uttar Pradesh?

The steps involved in folk dances in Uttar Pradesh vary depending on the type of dance being performed. However, there are some general trends that can be observed.

For example, many folk dances are performed in a circle. Dancers move around the circle in a counterclockwise direction. The steps are often simple and repetitive, making them easy to learn and follow.

In some cases, dancers may perform more complex steps. For example, dancers performing the Garba may perform intricate footwork that requires a great deal of skill.

What are the cultural significance of folk dances in Uttar Pradesh?

Folk dances are an important part of the Cultural heritage of Uttar Pradesh. They are a way for people to express their joy and celebrate their culture. Folk dances are also a way for people to connect with their past and to pass on traditions to future generations.

In addition, folk dances can be a Source Of Income for some people. Dancers may be hired to perform at weddings, festivals, and other events. Folk dances can also be a way for people to promote tourism in the state.

What are the challenges facing folk dances in Uttar Pradesh?

One of the biggest challenges facing folk dances in Uttar Pradesh is the lack of interest from young people. Many young people are more interested in Western-style dances than in traditional Indian dances. This is due in part to the influence of Globalization/”>Globalization-3/”>Globalization and the media.

Another challenge facing folk dances is the lack of government support. The government does not provide much funding for folk dance troupes or for the preservation of folk dance traditions. This lack of support makes it difficult for folk dancers to make a living from their art.

Despite these challenges, folk dances continue to be an important part of the cultural heritage of Uttar Pradesh. They are a way for people to express their joy and celebrate their culture. Folk dances are also a way for people to connect with their past and to pass on traditions to future generations.

Here are some multiple choice questions about folk dances of Uttar Pradesh:

Which of the following is not a folk dance of Uttar Pradesh?
(a) Ghoomar
(b) Lavani
(c) Chau dance
(d) Jhumar
Which of the following is the most popular folk dance of Uttar Pradesh?
(a) Ghoomar
(b) Lavani
(c) Chau dance
(d) Jhumar
Ghoomar is a folk dance that is performed by women. What is the main prop used in this dance?
(a) A veil
(b) A sword
(c) A stick
(d) A drum
Lavani is a folk dance that is performed by women. What is the main prop used in this dance?
(a) A veil
(b) A sword
(c) A stick
(d) A drum
Chau dance is a folk dance that is performed by men. What is the main prop used in this dance?
(a) A veil
(b) A sword
(c) A stick
(d) A drum
Jhumar is a folk dance that is performed by men and women. What is the main prop used in this dance?
(a) A veil
(b) A sword
(c) A stick
(d) A drum
Which of the following is not a folk instrument of Uttar Pradesh?
(a) Sarangi
(b) Dholak
(c) Sitar
(d) Tabla
Which of the following is the most popular folk instrument of Uttar Pradesh?
(a) Sarangi
(b) Dholak
(c) Sitar
(d) Tabla
Sarangi is a stringed instrument that is played with a bow. What is the main material used to make this instrument?
(a) Wood
(b) Metal
(c) Leather
(d) Animal skin
Dholak is a drum that is played with the hands. What is the main material used to make this instrument?
(a) Wood
(b) Metal
(c) Leather
(d) Animal skin
Sitar is a stringed instrument that is played with a plectrum. What is the main material used to make this instrument?
(a) Wood
(b) Metal
(c) Leather
(d) Animal skin
Tabla is a pair of drums that are played with the hands. What is the main material used to make these instruments?
(a) Wood
(b) Metal
(c) Leather
(d) Animal skin
Which of the following is not a folk festival of Uttar Pradesh?
(a) Holi
(b) Diwali
(c) Dussehra
(d) Kumbh Mela
Which of the following is the most popular folk festival of Uttar Pradesh?
(a) Holi
(b) Diwali
(c) Dussehra
(d) Kumbh Mela
Holi is a festival of colors that is celebrated in the spring. What is the main symbol of this festival?
(a) Water
(b) Fire
(c) Colors
(d) Flowers
Diwali is a festival of lights that is celebrated in the autumn. What is the main symbol of this festival?
(a) Water
(b) Fire
(c) Colors
(d) Flowers
Dussehra is a festival of victory that is celebrated in the autumn. What is the main symbol of this festival?
(a) Water
(b) Fire
(c) Colors
(d) Flowers
Kumbh Mela is a religious festival that is celebrated every 12 years. What is the main attraction of this festival?
(a) The bathing of pilgrims in the Ganges River
(b) The aarti ceremony
(c) The procession of elephants
(d) The fair
Which of the following is not a folk food of Uttar Pradesh?
(a) Ladoo
(b) Jalebi
(c) Biryani
(d) Momos
Which of the following is the most popular folk food of Uttar Pradesh?
(a) Ladoo
(b) Jalebi
(c) Biryani
(d) Momos
Ladoo is a sweet dish that is made from sugar, milk, and nuts. What is the main shape of this dish?
(a) Round
(b) Square
(c) Triangle
(d) Hexagonal
Jalebi is a sweet