Himachal Pradesh is a multi-religional, multicultural as well as multilingual North Indian state. Music and dance reflects the cultural identity of any state and Himchal Pradesh is no different. Himachal is also known as Dev Bhoomi. It is believed that local deity is taking care of its patrons in every village of the state. Himachal is well known for its festivities. Music and folk dances are an integral part of it. For the people of Himachal, dance and music is a way to entreat their Gods during festivals and special occasions. Music and Dance of Himachal Pradesh
Music and Dance of Himachal Pradesh
Himachal has a dance for every festival and every occasion which is unique to every region. These dances are performed at the local fairs, festivals and at joyous occasions like marriages where women and men dressed up in their traditional attire, dance away to glory. Music and Dance of Himachal Pradesh
Dances of Himachal
Himachali dance forms are diverse and complicated. These dances are vital part of the tribal life as it reflects the culture and the tradition of Himachal. Dance themes revolve around the scenes from the mythological epics such as Ramayana and Mahabharata. The traditional dances of Himachal Pradesh are also based on Folklores and chivalry tales of the local heroes and religious deities. Chham Dance or ‘Dance of Devils’, performed in Lahaul, Spiti and Kinnaur, is most popular amongst the tourists. Music and Dance of Himachal Pradesh
- Chhanak Chham Dance is exhibited by the Lama’s of Lahaul Spiti to please almighty during Chakhar Festival which is held every three years. The word Chhanak implies to the headgear worn by the dancers. The theme of the attire at this dance is black, yellow, and gold. The dancers dancing with knives in their hand and half covered faces are a delight to watch. It’s a slow dance compared to other Himachali dances.
- Kullu Natti is a popular dance of Kullu region. It is generally exhibited at fairs and festivals. A huge procession of dancers can be seen along with musicians playing ethnic instruments such as Kranal, Shehnai, Dhol and Nagara. Music and Dance of Himachal Pradesh
- Thoda is a war dance that is performed with a bow and arrow in the hands. The dancers mimic a battle scene by dancing. Music and Dance of Himachal Pradesh
- Dandras dance form belongs to Chamba region which is performed by holding small sticks in the hands. The dance is generally performed during pilgrimage or at fairs. Music and Dance of Himachal Pradesh
- Ghurehi is performed by women of Chamba during annual fairs and religious occasions.
- Shiv Badar Nati is specially performed on the occasion of Shivratri. Men and women dance on the sound of traditional music. Music and Dance of Himachal Pradesh
- Lahauli dance is similar to Ladaki dance. It is performed on the beats of the musical instruments such as Damman, Surna and Ladaki. The dancers adorn bead ornaments and move in a rhythmic manner with their hands locked. The dancers wear their traditionally embroidered long gowns and matching jackets over it.
- Losar Shona Chuksam is a stylish dance performed by Kinnauri. Losar means New Year. Hence it is performed during the months of Chaitra and Vaishakha. This dance includes some special musical instruments like huge Dhol, the Bugjal and Karnal. Music and Dance of Himachal Pradesh
- Jhamakada Dance belongs to Kangra district of Himachal. Only young girls can take part in this dance. This dance represents the strong lyrics and percussion based instruments. Music and Dance of Himachal Pradesh
- Gugga Dance originates from the lower regions of Himachal Pradesh. It is performed in devotion to the GuggaPir who was the protector of animals and snakes. The main attraction of this dance is a huge flag and an umbrella that is carried to the deity’s place. Music and Dance of Himachal Pradesh
Music and Songs of Himachal
- Jhoori is the sing dance song that is closely related to Jhoomer, a female dance form. The theme of this folk song is based on extra marital affair and it is performed outdoors. It is sung in the areas of Sirmaur and Mahasu with a special rhythm. Music and Dance of Himachal Pradesh
- Laman is the song of Kullu district that represents romantic emotions between the men and women. These songs are sung by women during the mornings and at nights. Music and Dance of Himachal Pradesh
- Ainchaliyan is a religious song which is sung in the house of the bride. It is quite popular among the farmers of Himachal. The men sing this song in the houses of the married couples on the beat of drums. While the women sing these songs in the house of the unmarried girls. The songs involve incidents from the marriage of Lord Shiva and Lord Ram. In the Chamba-Pangi regions, the professional singers use puppets, a khanjari and play this ballad. Music and Dance of Himachal Pradesh
