Ahir dance is performed in the Uttar Pradesh state of India. This dance is celebrated by the Ahir community. Ahir dance is based on the rhythmic footwork of the dancers. The Ahir dance is usually performed at the time of births and marriages. The Ahir dance reflects the past history of the clan which was of a warring race.
Nature of Songs of Ahir Dance
Ahir dances are usually based on `Biraha` songs to which they perform ballets. The word Birha is derived from the word "Rahi", meaning traveller. The compositions of the songs depict the poetic and artistic nature of the Ahirs. Generally the villagers have to travel long distances on foot hence to reduce the monotony of the journey they sing these songs. The songs also lessen their exhaustiveness and tiredness of the trip.
Musical Instruments of Ahir Dance
This dance is solely performed with the accompaniment of musical instruments like the dholak and kansi (drum and cymbals).
Costume of Ahir Dance
The performers of this dance generally wear a tight knicker while the rest of the body is left bare. They also adorn themselves by wearing ornaments like armlets and necklaces. The performers do not wear the usual anklets; instead they use bands of little brass bells that are tied to the thighs. The jingling of these bells highlights the time-patterns of the dance.
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