India's cultural heritage is beautifully expressed through its diverse and dynamic dance forms. From the intricate footwork of classical dances to the energetic movements of folk traditions, each dance tells a unique story. This guide provides a comprehensive, state-wise list of popular Indian dance forms, with a special focus on the rich traditions of Assam and the North-Eastern states, making it an invaluable resource for your ADRE exam preparation.
The Eight Classical Dances of India
- Bharatanatyam: Tamil Nadu
- Kathak: Uttar Pradesh (and North India)
- Kathakali: Kerala
- Kuchipudi: Andhra Pradesh
- Odissi: Odisha
- Sattriya: Assam
- Manipuri: Manipur
- Mohiniyattam: Kerala
Popular Folk and Classical Dances of India (State-wise)
🔶 North India
Uttar Pradesh: Raslila, Nautanki, Charkula, Kajri
Punjab: Bhangra, Giddha, Kikli
Haryana: Ghoomar, Daph, Dhamal
Rajasthan: Ghoomar, Kalbelia, Bhavai, Chari
Himachal Pradesh: Nati, Dangi, Chham
Jammu & Kashmir: Rouf, Kud, Dumhal
Uttarakhand: Garhwali, Kumayuni, Jhora
🔶 East India
West Bengal: Gambhira, Santhali, Chau
Bihar: Jat-Jatin, Bidesia, Paika
Odisha: Dalkhai, Ghumura, Chhau
Jharkhand: Karma, Jhumar, Paika, Sarhul
🔶 West India
Maharashtra: Lavani, Tamasha, Koli
Goa: Dekhni, Fugdi, Shigmo
Gujarat: Garba, Dandiya Raas, Bhavai
Chhattisgarh: Panthi, Raut Nacha, Suwa Nacha
🔶 South India
Tamil Nadu: Karakattam, Kavadi
Kerala: Theyyam, Thiruvathirakali, Kummattikali
Karnataka: Yakshagana, Dollu Kunitha, Veeragase
Andhra Pradesh: Veeranatyam, Lambadi, Dhimsa
Telangana: Perini Shivathandavam, Lambadi, Bonalu
Comprehensive List of Dances of Assam and the North-East
Assam
- Sattriya: Classical dance form founded by Srimanta Sankardeva.
- Bihu: Popular folk dance celebrating the agricultural cycle and New Year.
- Bagurumba: "Butterfly dance" of the Bodo tribe.
- Ojapali: An ancient narrative-style folk dance.
- Bhortal Nritya: Performed with cymbals by male dancers.
- Deodhani: A shamanistic dance honoring the snake goddess Manasa.
- Jhumur: A dance of the tea garden communities.
- Ali-Aye-Ligang: A festival dance of the Mising community.
Arunachal Pradesh
- Bardo Chham: Mask dance of the Sherdukpen tribe.
- Ponung: A popular folk dance of the Adi tribe.
- Aji Lamu: A folk-drama dance of the Monpa tribe.
Manipur
- Manipuri: Classical dance form with devotional themes.
- Thang Ta: A martial art dance.
- Lai Haraoba: Ritualistic folk dance.
- Pung Cholom: Energetic drum dance.
Meghalaya
- Wangala: "Festival of 100 Drums" dance of the Garo tribe.
- Nongkrem Dance: Khasi tribe's harvest dance.
- Shad Suk Mynsiem: Khasi thanksgiving dance.
Mizoram
- Cheraw: The "bamboo dance."
- Khuallam: "Dance of guests."
- Chailam: A popular festival dance.
Nagaland
- Hornbill Dance: A warrior dance of the Naga tribes.
- Chang Lo: A warrior dance of the Chang tribe.
- Zeliang: Dance of the Zeliangrong community.
Sikkim
- Singhi Chham: The "Snow Lion Dance."
- Yak Chham: A folk dance honoring the yak.
- Maruni: A folk dance of the Nepalese community.
Tripura
- Hojagiri: Folk dance of the Reang community.
- Garia: A harvest dance.
