Before we start, shall we ask a question about major folk dances in Uttarakhand? Do you know what is it? That’s right! We are talking about the traditional dance Pandava. This dance is related to Pandavas and the sources said that the dance is related to the long life of Pandavas. You can say it is a form of worship. This is worshiping for all those five Pandavas and their wife Draupadi.
Did you know?
This popular dance is organized every year from the month of November to February in Garhwal. And the dance begins with beats and tunes of musical instruments. Research even says that this dance has been organized where all Pandavas had left their weapons. We bet you don’t know the fact that it’s a traditional folk dance of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand.
The Pandavas come here in search of Lord Shiva. The Pandavas had left their weapons as they gave to the people of Uttarakhand there. Moreover, the Pandava dance Uttarakhand also takes place near Kedarnath-Badrinath shrines in Rudraprayag-Chamoli districts. During the month between November and February, almost all of the farming work gets done. So, people participate in this dance for some joy and entertainment.
We don’t know whether you will believe it or not, but the fact is there will be prosperity in the village and also, hoof disease in cows can be cured after the dance performance gets done.
What is the Duration of this event?
Pandava dance
Pandava dance is a three-hour event and all the dancers who participate are dressed in colorful costumes. All dancers perform the journey of five Pandavas and their wife Draupadi. In short, they narrate the entire story of Mahabharata. The villagers call a panchayat and curate the outline of this event. Sounds interesting, right?
What other Folk dances of Uttarakhand to Know?
Cholia Dance:
If you have attended local Rajput weddings then we are sure you are familiar with Cholia dance. The dancers here are equipped with swords and shields and they use regional brass instruments including Turi and Ransing.
Mukhota Dance:
During the month of Vaishakha, this dance has been performed. This fair starts from Vaishakha Sankranti for the worship of Bhumiyal Devta. During this event, many people offer ground rice preparations. In this event, people love to wear their favorite traditional clothes. Do you know how these clothes are made? It resembles various deities and demons.
Jhora Dance:
It is all about the springtime celebration which has been performed by people who are living in Uttarakhand. It is a renowned dance in the Kumaon Himalayas. What is the aim of this dance? The intent is to break caste barriers. It allows both higher and lower caste people to perform with complete celebration and fun. In addition to this, this dance is also performed during weddings and local fairs.
Final wordings:
Everyone loves the uttarakhand folk culture but there are many who don’t know about the folk dances of this place. We have helped you here as these four dances are worth watching by visiting Uttarakhand.
