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| Folk Dances of Bihar: Jat-Jatin/Image Credit: Our Jaipur |
Following are the popular folk dances of Bihar
Bidesia
Bidesia is a form of dance drama which holds a unique position in the heart and minds of Bihari people, especially of Bhojpuri region. The dance drama is generally played around the themes of social evils like child marriage, dowry system, child labor and others. Bidesia is generally performed by male artists. Even roles of women are played by men folks.
Fagua
Holi is a well-known festival of Hindus across the country and the world. In Bihar, Holi is celebrated with lots of colors, songs in Dhamar style and distinct style of dance, Fagua.
Jat-Jatin Dance
Jat-Jatin Dance is weaved around the story of two lovers, Jat and Jatin, who faced many challenges from the society to stay together. Sometimes stories of mundane life and social problems are integrated into the dance drama in order to raise awareness about these topics. However, the central theme remains the same, i.e., love and struggles of Jat and Jatin.
Jhijian
Jhijian (or Jijya) is a community dance performed in order to please Lord Indra for a good rain. Jhijian dancers are accompanied by a singer, a harmonium player, a bansuri player and a dholak player.
Jumari
Jumari is a popular folk dance in Mithianchal region of Bihar. It is similar to Garba of Gujarat and only performed by married women. It signifies good omen and generally performed after the month of Ashwin (September-October).
Kajari
Kajari dance is a popular folk dance of Bihar. It is performed during the month of Shravan to mark the start of monsoon season.
Paika
Paika is a war dance of Bihar. It is characterized by rigorous dance movements and loud drumming sounds. The performers use swords and shields during this dance and showcase their skill to use them. In ancient times, it is performed by villages for light entertainment and as a preparation for war.
Sam Chakeva
Sam Chakeva is another folk dance drama from the Maithili region of the Bihar. It depicts the story of Sama and Chakeva, children of Lord Krishna. According to the mythological story, Sama was wrongly accused of misdoings and consequently cursed by her father, Lord Krishna. But, love and sacrifice of her brother, Chakeva, changed the heart of Lord Krishna, and Sama regained her humane form. The dance is usually performed during Kartik month.
Sohar-Khilouna
Sohar-Khilouna is usually performed to mark the arrival of a new one in the family. During the ceremony, women sing, dance and bless the newborn.
Other popular traditional and folk dance forms of Bihar are Domkach, Dhangar, and Bakho Nach.
Also Read: Folk Dances of India