Punjab is known for its traditional folk dance and music. There are various folk dances such as bhangra and giddha, which are popular among all dance forms of Punjabi folk dance. These days, non-Punjabis get into the spirit and enjoy the folk dance of Punjab and make Punjabi dance part of their culture.
The Punjab people have enthusiasm which is strongly displayed in their folk dances. Punjabi dance is the direct representation of the enthusiasm and energy of Punjab’s vibrant youth.
So, let’s discuss some traditional folk dances of Punjab.
List Of Traditional Punjabi Folk Dance
Below, we have listed the traditional folk dance of Punjab.
1- Bhangra
Bhangra oldest form of dance in Punjab but later there is some change in their musical equipment and dance pattern. Bhangra’s energy with traditional dhol and jhanjhar became popular all over India.
The outfit of the bhangra is a lungi with a buttonless jacket. The dancer uses a different handkerchief and wears a pug (turban), which is a sign of pride. Women perform bhangra with traditional salwar kameez and chunni.
2- Giddha
Another folk dance on the list of the folk dance of Punjab is Giddha. It is performed by the young women of Punjab. This dance shows the women’s strength and spirit and also shows the colourful atmosphere. It is not limited to a particular time, which means this dance can be performed at any special event. The outfit for this dance is common household stuff with a few decorations. The style of this dance jerks the shoulder and bends the lower body segment and clapping is used as a musical instrument of dance.
Giddha singing is called ‘Boli’ or ‘Boliyan’, which is performed in a large circle and utilises emotional expression.
3- Jhumar
The third traditional folk dance of Punjab is jhumar which is known for its passion and vivaJgumar. This dance form originated in the regions Multan and Balochistan. The word jhumar derives from ‘Joom’ which means swagging gently. This performance focuses on love and other emotions. The other forms of Jhumar are Satluj Jhumar, Chaenab Jhumar, Beas Jhoomer and Multani Jhumar. This style is very popular in the Punjabi folk dance and known for its grace and elegance.
4- Malawi
Malawi giddha is the popular form of the folk dance of Punjab, which is mostly performed by young men. This dance is performed in areas such as Bhatinda, Muktsar, Sangrur, Mansa, Patiala, and Faridkot. It uses a wide range of musical instruments such as tongs or chimta, which is the traditional instrument of South Asia. It is often used in well-liked Punjabi Giddha and bhangra music. Another musical instrument used in this dance performance is Dholaki.
5- Sammi
Sammi is the traditional folk dance of Punjab. This dance originated in the tribal communities of Punjab and was performed by the women of the Rai, Bazzigar and Sansi tribes. The outfit for this dance is colourful. The dancers are dressed in the bright colour kurtas and full flowing skirts called Lehenga. It is similar to the giddha dance and only performed by the women. The dancers stand in a circle and swing their hands and bring them up, right in front up to the chest level and clap.
6- Jaago
Jaago is a popular folk dance of Punjab. In Hindi, the term jaago means ‘wakeup’ This dance excites the member of a household where marriage is in progress. This dance is performed to celebrate the wedding festivities which deserve special mention.
Jaago dance is performed by the young girls in the family where the wedding festivities are going on. They dance through the village street carrying a decorative pot with colourful illuminated candles and they chant the jaago tune loudly.
7- Luddi
Luddi dance is performed by males to celebrate victory. The steps of this dance are simple and slow. This popular folk dance of Punjab does not have a particular dress pattern. The dancers wear loose tops or shirts which show the dancers can enjoy the dance freely.
8- Kikli
Kikli dance form is performed by young girls. Two girls perform this dance by holding their hands together. They start moving in a circle with the dupatta in their hands. The anklet makes a beautiful sound in this dance form.
9- Teeyan
Teeyan dance is a popular folk dance of Punjab. It is performed during the Teeyan festival. This festival is also called the Women’s Dance Festival because it revolves around women. The word ‘Teeyan’ signifies the celebration of a prosperous and blissful married life.
The newly married women visit their parent’s houses to celebrate this festival and welcome the rainy season. The married women receive a gift from their parents.
10- Dhamal
Dhamal is the popular and traditional folk dance of Punjab that resembles the Bhangra. The dance requires considerable athletic power, with men cleverly crafting quick and swift moves in striking and wearing brightly coloured costumes. They are often accompanied by colourful sticks that enhance the beauty and aesthetic appeal of the dance and also produce a melodious resonance.
Conclusion
The Mentioned above folk dance of Punjab enriches the air of state with glory. Numerous forms of Punjabi dance express the spirits of the local people. The bhangra dance symbolises the flourishing harvest of the state.
