Folk Dances of Chamba

Folk Dances of Chamba

Folk dances of Chamba District are considered as an integral part of the rich indigenous culture of the district. In Chamba District, folk dances are performed on various festivals and occasions.

Folk dances of Chamba District hold special significance as here the local people enjoy both singing and dancing tremendously. Marriages, religious functions and fairs provide a spectacle of spontaneous songs and dances. Men and women may sing and dance separately or in mixed groups.

One of the most popular features of the folk dances of Chamba District is that it is slow in the beginning but picks up rhythm in between and becomes quite fast in the end. Singing and dancing go side by side. The general style of the dance consists of movements and steps, backward and forward in a circle formed by the dancer's holdings hands. These folk dance forms are performed gracefully. The movements of steps are controlled by the pace set by the time of songs, drums, flute and tone. The various popular types of folk dances performed in Chamba District are as follows -

Dhurei: This dance is performed by the women folk only. In this pattern of dance, no musical instruments are played and the women dance on the tune of folk song. The dancers form a circle and dance. Some women sing supporting the dance form. This dance form was usually performed in the confines of the houses and therefore came to be known as 'dhurei', which means dance performed within a house. It is however believed that the dance acquired its name from the way it is performed. The dance is performed in circle called 'ghera' in local parlance. From gehra, the word Ghurei has been derived. It is one of the most popular women dances in Chamba.

Churahi Nritya: This type of dance is more prevalent in Churah area as the name suggests. Men and women perform this dance by making circles. It is supported by musical instruments and folk songs.

Dandaras: This pattern of dance is performed in Bharmaur area by the inhabitants called Gaddis. It is a typical dance performed by men folk only. Dancers perform on the tune of musical instruments only. The dancers arrange themselves in a semicircle and begin dance in a slow speed. The dance picks up momentum in between and becomes very fast towards the end. The fast dance seems to symbolise 'tandava nritya' of Lord Shiva.

Sohal Nati: This is a typical dance performed in Saho area of Chamba District. It is performed on all festive occasions but the main performance is on the days of Saho fair held in the Baisakh month in the premises of Chandershekhar temple. The dance symbolises the killing of Bhasmasura by Lord Vishnu and hence also known as 'Mohini Bhasmasura' dance. This dance form is supported by musical instruments.

These folk dances are performed on various occasions and they are one of the main attractions for the people visiting this district.

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