Bidesia dance is a popular form of dance drama prevalent in the Bhojpuri-speaking region of Bihar state of India. This traditional dance originated in a twentieth century folk theatre. The aim of this dance is to focus on social issues, contradictory topics and conflict between the traditional and the modern, the urban and rural, and the rich and the poor.
History of Bidesia Dance
It is believed that the creator of these plays is Bhikari Thakur of Bihar, a barber by profession. His dramas are dealt with many social issues, contradictory topics and conflict between the traditional and the modern, the urban and rural, and the rich and the poor. Bhikari Thakur used satire and light-hearted comments to maximum effect to put forward his views on social ills and other problems plaguing Bhojpuri society.
Themes of Bidesia Dance
The themes of Bidesia emphasise not only on hard-hitting but also delicate matters and emotional battles. The emotions of birha or pangs of separation find expression in the Bidesia, thus the women who are left alone behind by their men who are away from home, sing through these songs. The train sometimes represented as the other woman, the weather, and the in-laws are all criticized in these songs.
The overall form of Bidesia has been made so effective through the medium of vibrant dances and evoking music and heart touching stories that it paints a realistic picture of olden days. In the earlier days, Bidesia was famous as it gave voice to many social concerned topics like the cause of poor labourers and tried to create awareness about the poor status of women in the Bhojpuri society. Casteism and communalism are also handled with due care in the same cultural tunes. Sometimes, the tone of Bidesia is sarcastic in nature. Bidesia plays and styles of theatre are very popular for their rhythmic language, sweet songs and appealing music. These plays are the true reflection of Bhojpuri culture.
Performance and Costume of Bidesia Dance
In Bidesia dance, the female roles are enacted by the male actor-dancers. Usually, they wear dhoti or shirt trousers and for the appearance in case of female roles, they use artificial long hair for the same. Though many new means of communication and entertainment have developed recently, Bidesia remains the most popular and refreshing relaxation for the Bhojpuris.
