Folk Dances of Bihar: A Comprehensive Guide To Rich Cultural Heritage!

Somya Luthra | Updated: Jul 3, 2023 23:46 IST

In the center of India, in the state of Bihar, there are many different traditions and rich cultural history. The lively folk dances of the Bihari people are among its most alluring features. In Bihar, each district has its own distinctive dancing style that has been handed down through the years. In addition to being enjoyable, these traditional dance styles offer a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural heritage. Folk dances are an essential component of Bihar’s cultural legacy. This article will examine the captivating folk dances of Bihar, each of which has its own allure and meaning and exemplifies the people’s rich traditions and practices.

Table of Contents

Names of Important Folk Dances Of Bihar
Folk Dances of Bihar FAQs

Names of Important Folk Dances Of Bihar

Here below, in this section, you will get to know about the details of all Folk Dances of Bihar

Jat-Jatin Dance

Jat-Jatin dance is one of the most popular folk dances of Bihar. This dance form is performed by men and women during weddings and other auspicious occasions. The dance is named after Jat and Jatin, two characters from the Mahabharata. The performers wear colorful costumes and dance to the beats of dhol, nagara, and shehnai.

Jhijhia Dance

Jhijhia dance is a popular folk dance of the Angika-speaking people of Bihar. This dance form is performed during the harvest season. The performers wear traditional costumes and dance to the beats of dhol and nagara. The dance is accompanied by songs that depict the joy and happiness of the harvest season.

Bidesia Dance

Bidesia dance is a popular folk dance of the Bhojpuri-speaking people of Bihar. This dance form is performed during weddings and other festive occasions. The performers wear colorful costumes and dance to the beats of dhol and shehnai. The dance is accompanied by songs that depict the joy and happiness of the occasion.

Jumari Dance

Jumari dance is a popular folk dance of the Kisan community of Bihar. This dance form is performed during the sowing season. The performers wear traditional costumes and dance to the beats of dhol and nagara. The dance is accompanied by songs that depict the joy and happiness of the sowing season.

Sohar-Khilouna Dance

Sohar-Khilouna dance is a popular folk dance of the Magahi-speaking people of Bihar. This dance form is performed during the birth of a child. The performers wear traditional costumes and dance to the beats of dhol and nagara. The dance is accompanied by songs that depict the joy and happiness of the occasion.

Jitia Dance

Jitia dance is a popular folk dance of the Bhojpuri-speaking people of Bihar. This dance form is performed during the Jitia festival, which is celebrated to honor the departed souls. The performers wear traditional costumes and dance to the beats of dhol and nagara. The dance is accompanied by songs that depict the joy and happiness of the occasion.

Kajari Dance

Kajari dance is a popular folk dance of the Bhojpuri-speaking people of Bihar. This dance form is performed during the rainy season. The performers wear traditional costumes and dance to the beats of dhol and nagara. The dance is accompanied by songs that depict the joy and happiness of the rainy season.

The regional traditions and customs are preserved through the folk dances of Bihar, which are an essential component of the state’s cultural legacy. These dances serve as windows into the complex fabric of Bihari culture rather than merely performances. They honor ceremonies, illustrate migration stories, embrace love, celebrate harvests, and express joy and artistic expression. Bihar allows the world to experience the beauty and diversity of its cultural heritage by preserving and promoting these folk dances. This preserves the soul of its people.

Folk Dances of Bihar FAQs

Q.1 What are the traditional costumes worn by performers during folk dances in Bihar?

Ans.1 The traditional costumes worn by performers during folk dances in Bihar vary depending on the dance form. However, they usually include colorful sarees, dhotis, and turbans. The costumes are often decorated with intricate embroidery and mirrorwork.

Q.2 What are the musical instruments used in all folk dances of Bihar?

Ans.2 The musical instruments used in folk dances of Bihar include dhol, nagara, shehnai, and harmonium. These instruments are used to create a lively and energetic rhythm that complements the dance movements.

Q.3 When are the folk dances of Bihar usually performed?

Ans.3 The folk dances of Bihar are usually performed during weddings, festivals, and other auspicious occasions. Some dance forms, such as Jhijhia and Kajari, are performed during specific seasons, while others, such as Bidesia and Jitia, are performed to commemorate important events.

Q.4 Are there any specific dance forms that are unique to a particular district of Bihar?

Ans.4 Yes, each district of Bihar has its own unique dance form. For example, the Jhijhia dance is popular in the Angika-speaking regions, the Jat-Jatin dance is popular among the Maithili-speaking people.

Q.5 How can one learn the folk dances of Bihar?

Ans.5 One can learn the folk dances of Bihar by attending workshops and training programs conducted by professional dancers and cultural organizations. These programs provide an opportunity to learn the basic steps and movements of the dance, as well as the cultural significance behind them.