Folk Songs and Dance of Rajasthan | RPSC Preparation: All subjects - RPSC RAS (Rajasthan) PDF Download

Rajasthani Music And Dance

• The state of Rajasthan in India is renowned for its vibrant music and dance traditions that add color and life to every celebration and festivity. Professional artists in Rajasthan captivate audiences with their mesmerizing performances, creating an enchanting atmosphere filled with rhythm and melody.
• Rajasthan boasts special entertainment communities dedicated to showcasing tales of love and valor through their captivating performances. These artists travel from one place to another, sharing their talent and spreading joy. Historically, Rajput families and Maharajas have been patrons of these art forms, fostering a rich tradition of dance and music in the region.
• Music and dance are integral to the cultural fabric of Rajasthan. They play a crucial role in various occasions, from welcoming the monsoon to celebrating festivals and fairs. Women in Rajasthan often sing melodious songs while going about their daily chores, infusing music into the rhythm of everyday life.

Some of the Famous dance forms of Rajasthan are:

• Ghoomar: This is the most celebrated dance in the state, admired by tourists for its vibrant and energetic style. Women perform it by spinning in high-speed rounds while their long skirts (ghagras) flare out gracefully. Remarkably, the performers keep their faces covered with veils. Traditionally, a new bride is expected to perform Ghoomar when she arrives at her husband's home for the first time.
• Fire Dance: This dramatic dance involves walking barefoot over a bed of flaming coals. Despite the intense heat, the performers do not suffer burns, which is attributed to their swift and skilled movements.
• Drum Dance: Performed by members of the Martial race, this dance features a performer juggling three swords with his hands while holding a fourth sword in his mouth. The performance is synchronized with the beat of drums.
• Kachhi Ghodi: This humorous dance is part of the bridegroom's party, where performers, dressed in elaborate costumes, mimic riding dummy horses. The dance showcases themes of chivalry and is filled with laughter.
• Kathak: A classical dance form that is purely traditional and involves intricate footwork and expressive storytelling.
• Kathputli (Puppet) Dance: Rajasthan is renowned for its puppet dance, where puppets are used to narrate stories from royal history. This form of dance is highly entertaining and showcases rich cultural traditions.
• Chari: In this dance, women balance 7-8 brass pots on their heads while performing intricate movements.
• Sapera Dance: Performed by snake charmers, this dance involves spinning in high-speed circles while wearing long skirts decorated with silver ribbons. The performance is known for its impressive agility and skill.
• Bhavai: This dance involves the balancing of earthen pots on the head while performing to the beats of traditional instruments such as the Ravanhatha, Morchang, Bankia, and Algoza.
• Raas Dance: Dedicated to Lord Krishna, this dance depicts scenes from his life and holds deep philosophical significance.
• Gangaur Dance: Performed during the Gangaur festival, this dance is done by women who worship goddess Gauri for the well-being of their husbands. They balance a pot filled with green leaves, flowers, and grass on their heads while dancing.