Beats of tradition
- POSTED ON: 25 Apr, 2023
- TOTAL VIEWS: 484 Views
- POSTED BY: Madhumitha Srinivasan
- ARTICLE POINTS: 150 Points
International Dance Day is celebrated annually on April 29. Established by the Dance Committee of ITI in 1982, it is a global celebration of dance, highlighting its universality, cross-cultural appeal, and ability to bring people together. Each year, a notable dance personality issues a message, emphasising the importance of dance as an art form and as a means of promoting social, cultural, and political change. This year’s message is issued by Chinese dancer and choreographer Liping Yang.
To celebrate International Dance Day, we look at a few folk dances, which are traditional ones that reflect the culture and customs of a particular region or community. While you are at it, solve the image puzzle!
Buchaechum
Buchaechum, also known as the Korean Fan Dance, is a traditional Korean dance that incorporates the use of large, brightly coloured fans. The dance is performed by a group of female dancers, who move in synchronized patterns and formations to create a visually stunning display. The dance is often accompanied by traditional Korean music and is performed during various festivals and celebrations. The intricate movements of the dancers and the fluid motion of the fans are meant to represent the beauty of nature and the harmony between humans and the natural world.
Caporales
Caporales is a traditional dance that originated in La Paz, Bolivia, and has spread throughout the country and other parts of South America. Caporales is inspired by the character of the ‘Caporal’ or the overseer of slaves who wore boots and held a whip. The male dancers, known as “caporales,” wear elaborate costumes that include tall boots, colourful jackets, and wide-brimmed hats adorned with feathers. The dance is characterised by the use of intricate footwork, acrobatic movements, and the sounds of drums and bells. It is performed during various festivals and celebrations as an offering to the Virgin of Socavón, the patron saint of miners.
Hula
Hula is a traditional dance form that originated in Hawaii and is deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture and history. The dance is accompanied by chant (oli) or song (mele) combines graceful movements, storytelling, and music to express the history, legends, and culture of the Hawaiian people. The dance often depicts themes from nature and Hawaiian mythology, and it has been passed down through generations as a way of preserving Hawaiian traditions and cultural heritage.
Ghoomar
A Rajasthani folk dance, it was developed by the Bhil tribe. It is performed by groups of women who move in graceful circles while twirling colourful skirts called lehengas. The dance is accompanied by music played on traditional instruments such as the dholak, harmonium, and sarangi. Ghoomar is often performed during festivals and celebrations, and it is known for its intricate footwork and graceful hand movements.
Kolattam
Also known as Kolannalu, it is a popular folk dance from South India. It is known for its fast-paced footwork and intricate hand gestures. Traditionally performed by a group of women who dance with sticks, the dancers move in two circles – inner and outer. The pairs of dancers facing each other strike each other’s sticks and continue moving around in circles in a rhythmic fashion. Kolattam is typically performed during festivals and celebrations in South India, including Pongal and Navratri. It is also commonly performed at weddings and other special events.