Mundari dance has a very important place among many folk dances of the Munda community of Jharkhand. The unique rhythm and music distinguish the Munda tribe from other communities inhabiting the Chota Nagpur plateau.
Mundari dance encompasses various dance forms in itself. This folk dance is a part of the festivities related to agriculture.
Key Aspect of Mundari Dance
Mundari dance is performed differently in every region. One thing that is common among all forms is the non-participation of males in the group of female dancers. The male members of the tribe play the musical instruments and enjoy as an audience.
The dance is women-centric and, therefore, the steps are graceful and slow. The Mundari dance is accompanied by the folk songs, sung by the local folks. The women form a round chain with hands placed on each other’s waist.
The first move is inwards in the circle with heads slightly bowed. Then they step back expanding the circle. This rhythmic movement is done in repetition.
Costume in Mundari Dance
There is no strict dress code to be followed for being a part of the Mundari dance. Women wear the usual sarees of different colors. Some performances involve the use of traditional attire which includes red-bordered white sarees.
The hairs are made into a bun and decorated with flowers and feathers. They wear colorful armbands and silver anklets. Some light make-up is also worn by some young women.
Instruments Used
The musical instruments like dholak, Nagada, dhak are the most common ones used. These are played by the men while the women dance to the beats.
Pingback: All Folk Dances of India - Auchitya
Pingback: All Folk Dances of India - Auchitya