Dance of Bhuiyas

Dance of Bhuiyas is based on the ritual of courtship which had evolved from a mere amusement of their community. The dancing parties are held among the boys and girls of a particular village who go through some practice and rehearsal. Later a group of well rehearsed men visits the neighbouring village with gifts of sweetmeats, combs and few other ornaments for the maidens. After their arrival in the village, the men beat on their drums and tambourines to make others aware of their appearance. The girls of the village come to form a dancing group. Firstly, the gifts are presented to them which are gladly accepted by them. They then get engaged for the refreshments for their guests.

Foods and other beverages are presented to them. After the consumption of the food, the boys and the girls form a group and dance together whole night, enjoying themselves. The following morning more than one betrothal is announced to the elders of the village. If the dancing has continued till the morning, as it often happens, then the girls again offer food to the visitors. Once the food is finished they advance for their departure still dancing and beating drums. They are escorted by the girls till the boundary during their departure. The boundary is a type of a rock-broken hill with wooded banks. Here on either side of the bank, the girls and the men halt and a valedictory song is sung by them. After the song finishes, the girls wave to the men who in return bow to them and then depart.

Often the girls also arrange for a return visit to the village of the boys. During this time again the dancing and merry-making is enjoyed in the boy`s village. This type of dancing festival is much enjoyed among the Bhuyias.