Chapter 15: Dances of Our Land
6th StandardArts
Chapter Summary
Dances of Our Land - Chapter Summary
# Dances of Our Land
## Overview
In this chapter, students explore the richness of India’s traditional dance forms. Through activities like field trips, comparative studies, and project work, they gain a deep appreciation for the local and national dance heritage. The chapter enhances awareness of culture, rhythm, costume, instruments, and the social role of dance.
## Key Topics Covered
### 1. Introduction to Regional Dances
- Dances reflect the **spirit and culture** of local communities.
- Students are encouraged to observe and participate in local dances known as **loka nrityas**.
- These dance forms are usually part of celebrations, rituals, and seasonal festivities.
### 2. Activity 1: Exploring Regional Dances
- Students list regional dances from their area through discussions with parents, teachers, and friends.
- Visit local artists or view their performances on video.
- Learn basic **postures, gestures, and movements**.
- Understand the purpose behind the dance, which may include rituals, celebrations, or storytelling.
### 3. Observational Study Example: Garba from Gujarat
**A. Introduction**
- Performed during **Navaratri** in worship of Goddess Durga.
- Highlights **togetherness, celebration**, and cultural spirit.
**B. Characteristics**
- **Energetic, rhythmic clapping** and **circular formations**.
- Dance performed in **concentric circles** with vibrant movements.
**C. Accompaniments**
- Traditional music using **dhol**, **tabla**, and **dandia sticks**.
**D. Costumes**
- Women: **Chaniya choli**
- Men: **Kediyu-kafni** (kurta and dhoti)
### 4. Activity 2: Exploring Other Dance Forms
- Watch regional dance videos from other states.
- Compare rhythm, style, instruments, and costumes.
- Group discussions enhance understanding of cultural diversity.
### 5. Dance Forms from Other States (Sample Table)
| State | Dance Form | Instruments & Music | Costumes | Occasion |
|----------|------------------|--------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------|
| Kerala | Thiruvathira Kali| Clapping with folk songs | Mundu, Vesthi, traditional Kerala ornaments | Thiruvathira, Shivratri, Onam |
| Odisha | Saila | Dhol, nagara, flute | Sarees, dhotis, tribal beads, metal ornaments | Chaitra Parva (agriculture) |
| Kashmir | Rouf | Tumbaknari, rabab, harmonium | Pheran, embroidered robes, traditional jewellery | Eid, Navroz, weddings, harvest |
### 6. Activity 3: Comparison of Regional Dance Forms
**Example Comparison Table:**
| Dance Form | Kalbelia | Nongkrem |
|------------|----------------------------------|--------------------------------------|
| State | Rajasthan | Meghalaya |
| Costume | Angrakhi, odhani, lehenga with mirror work | Men: swords & yak hair, Women: traditional dress |
| Purpose | Rituals, mythological storytelling, Holi | Harvest blessings, Goddess worship |
| Performers | Women dance, men sing | Both men and women participate |
| Music | Pungi, dufli, been, khanjira | Drum, tangmuri |
### 7. Activity 4: Project on Local Dance Form
- Students create a visual project on a regional dance.
- Include:
- Pictures or drawings
- Folk songs
- Craft models of jewellery
- Presentation to class enhances creativity and confidence.
### 8. Activity 5: Notes on Renowned Dancers
- Choose a **famous modern Indian dancer**.
- Write a note and include their photo.
- Try to **imitate their moves, postures, gestures**.
---
## New Terms and Definitions
| Term | Definition |
|---------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Loka Nritya | Traditional folk dances of a region, often performed in festivals or rituals |
| Dhol | A large drum used in many Indian folk music traditions |
| Dandia Sticks | Wooden sticks used in dances like Garba |
| Angrakhi | Traditional upper body garment worn in Rajasthan |
| Tangmuri | A traditional wind instrument from Meghalaya |
| Pheran | A long loose robe worn in Kashmir |
| Chaniya Choli | A traditional women's outfit from Gujarat |
| Kalbelia | A folk dance from Rajasthan performed by the Kalbelia tribe |
| Nongkrem | A ceremonial dance festival in Meghalaya |
| Tumbaknari | A small Kashmiri kettle drum used in Rouf |
---
## Practice Questions
### 🟢 Easy (3)
**1. What is the occasion for performing Garba?**
**Answer:** Navaratri
**Explanation:** Garba is performed to worship Goddess Durga during the festival of Navaratri.
---
**2. What do women wear during the Kalbelia dance?**
**Answer:** Angrakhi, odhani, and lehenga embroidered with small mirrors
**Explanation:** This costume is traditional to Rajasthan and is decorated with mirror work.
---
**3. Which instrument is commonly used in the Saila dance of Odisha?**
**Answer:** Dhol
**Explanation:** The dhol is a traditional drum used by the tribal community during Saila.
---
### 🟡 Medium (2)
**4. What is the main difference in performers between Kalbelia and Nongkrem dances?**
**Answer:** Kalbelia is mainly performed by women, while Nongkrem includes both men and women.
**Explanation:** Kalbelia involves female dancers and male singers, whereas Nongkrem is a group performance by both genders.
---
**5. What type of instrument is the tangmuri used in Nongkrem?**
**Answer:** Wind instrument
**Explanation:** Tangmuri is a traditional wind instrument from Meghalaya.
---
### 🔴 Difficult (3)
**6. How is rhythm maintained in Thiruvathira Kali?**
**Answer:** Through clapping and folk songs
**Explanation:** Women maintain the rhythm with coordinated claps while singing.
---
**7. Name two festivals during which Rouf is performed in Kashmir.**
**Answer:** Eid and Baisakhi
**Explanation:** Rouf is performed during religious and seasonal festivals like Eid, Baisakhi, and Navroz.
---
**8. Which dance includes movements in concentric circles?**
**Answer:** Garba
**Explanation:** Garba dancers move in circular formations, often creating concentric circles.
---
### 🔵 Very Difficult (2)
**9. Compare the purpose of Kalbelia and Nongkrem dances.**
**Answer:** Kalbelia is ritualistic and story-driven (Holi, mythology), while Nongkrem is performed to seek blessings for harvest and prosperity.
**Explanation:** Kalbelia often depicts cultural stories; Nongkrem is a community prayer dance.
---
**10. How can you distinguish between Rouf and Saila in terms of musical instruments and costumes?**
**Answer:**
* Rouf: Instruments like rabab, harmonium, tumbaknari; Kashmiri attire with pheran
* Saila: Instruments like dhol, nagara, flute; tribal dress with beads and shells
**Explanation:** The instrument choice and costume materials reflect regional diversity and cultural identity.
---
## Overview
In this chapter, students explore the richness of India’s traditional dance forms. Through activities like field trips, comparative studies, and project work, they gain a deep appreciation for the local and national dance heritage. The chapter enhances awareness of culture, rhythm, costume, instruments, and the social role of dance.
## Key Topics Covered
### 1. Introduction to Regional Dances
- Dances reflect the **spirit and culture** of local communities.
- Students are encouraged to observe and participate in local dances known as **loka nrityas**.
- These dance forms are usually part of celebrations, rituals, and seasonal festivities.
### 2. Activity 1: Exploring Regional Dances
- Students list regional dances from their area through discussions with parents, teachers, and friends.
- Visit local artists or view their performances on video.
- Learn basic **postures, gestures, and movements**.
- Understand the purpose behind the dance, which may include rituals, celebrations, or storytelling.
### 3. Observational Study Example: Garba from Gujarat
**A. Introduction**
- Performed during **Navaratri** in worship of Goddess Durga.
- Highlights **togetherness, celebration**, and cultural spirit.
**B. Characteristics**
- **Energetic, rhythmic clapping** and **circular formations**.
- Dance performed in **concentric circles** with vibrant movements.
**C. Accompaniments**
- Traditional music using **dhol**, **tabla**, and **dandia sticks**.
**D. Costumes**
- Women: **Chaniya choli**
- Men: **Kediyu-kafni** (kurta and dhoti)
### 4. Activity 2: Exploring Other Dance Forms
- Watch regional dance videos from other states.
- Compare rhythm, style, instruments, and costumes.
- Group discussions enhance understanding of cultural diversity.
### 5. Dance Forms from Other States (Sample Table)
| State | Dance Form | Instruments & Music | Costumes | Occasion |
|----------|------------------|--------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------|
| Kerala | Thiruvathira Kali| Clapping with folk songs | Mundu, Vesthi, traditional Kerala ornaments | Thiruvathira, Shivratri, Onam |
| Odisha | Saila | Dhol, nagara, flute | Sarees, dhotis, tribal beads, metal ornaments | Chaitra Parva (agriculture) |
| Kashmir | Rouf | Tumbaknari, rabab, harmonium | Pheran, embroidered robes, traditional jewellery | Eid, Navroz, weddings, harvest |
### 6. Activity 3: Comparison of Regional Dance Forms
**Example Comparison Table:**
| Dance Form | Kalbelia | Nongkrem |
|------------|----------------------------------|--------------------------------------|
| State | Rajasthan | Meghalaya |
| Costume | Angrakhi, odhani, lehenga with mirror work | Men: swords & yak hair, Women: traditional dress |
| Purpose | Rituals, mythological storytelling, Holi | Harvest blessings, Goddess worship |
| Performers | Women dance, men sing | Both men and women participate |
| Music | Pungi, dufli, been, khanjira | Drum, tangmuri |
### 7. Activity 4: Project on Local Dance Form
- Students create a visual project on a regional dance.
- Include:
- Pictures or drawings
- Folk songs
- Craft models of jewellery
- Presentation to class enhances creativity and confidence.
### 8. Activity 5: Notes on Renowned Dancers
- Choose a **famous modern Indian dancer**.
- Write a note and include their photo.
- Try to **imitate their moves, postures, gestures**.
---
## New Terms and Definitions
| Term | Definition |
|---------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Loka Nritya | Traditional folk dances of a region, often performed in festivals or rituals |
| Dhol | A large drum used in many Indian folk music traditions |
| Dandia Sticks | Wooden sticks used in dances like Garba |
| Angrakhi | Traditional upper body garment worn in Rajasthan |
| Tangmuri | A traditional wind instrument from Meghalaya |
| Pheran | A long loose robe worn in Kashmir |
| Chaniya Choli | A traditional women's outfit from Gujarat |
| Kalbelia | A folk dance from Rajasthan performed by the Kalbelia tribe |
| Nongkrem | A ceremonial dance festival in Meghalaya |
| Tumbaknari | A small Kashmiri kettle drum used in Rouf |
---
## Practice Questions
### 🟢 Easy (3)
**1. What is the occasion for performing Garba?**
**Answer:** Navaratri
**Explanation:** Garba is performed to worship Goddess Durga during the festival of Navaratri.
---
**2. What do women wear during the Kalbelia dance?**
**Answer:** Angrakhi, odhani, and lehenga embroidered with small mirrors
**Explanation:** This costume is traditional to Rajasthan and is decorated with mirror work.
---
**3. Which instrument is commonly used in the Saila dance of Odisha?**
**Answer:** Dhol
**Explanation:** The dhol is a traditional drum used by the tribal community during Saila.
---
### 🟡 Medium (2)
**4. What is the main difference in performers between Kalbelia and Nongkrem dances?**
**Answer:** Kalbelia is mainly performed by women, while Nongkrem includes both men and women.
**Explanation:** Kalbelia involves female dancers and male singers, whereas Nongkrem is a group performance by both genders.
---
**5. What type of instrument is the tangmuri used in Nongkrem?**
**Answer:** Wind instrument
**Explanation:** Tangmuri is a traditional wind instrument from Meghalaya.
---
### 🔴 Difficult (3)
**6. How is rhythm maintained in Thiruvathira Kali?**
**Answer:** Through clapping and folk songs
**Explanation:** Women maintain the rhythm with coordinated claps while singing.
---
**7. Name two festivals during which Rouf is performed in Kashmir.**
**Answer:** Eid and Baisakhi
**Explanation:** Rouf is performed during religious and seasonal festivals like Eid, Baisakhi, and Navroz.
---
**8. Which dance includes movements in concentric circles?**
**Answer:** Garba
**Explanation:** Garba dancers move in circular formations, often creating concentric circles.
---
### 🔵 Very Difficult (2)
**9. Compare the purpose of Kalbelia and Nongkrem dances.**
**Answer:** Kalbelia is ritualistic and story-driven (Holi, mythology), while Nongkrem is performed to seek blessings for harvest and prosperity.
**Explanation:** Kalbelia often depicts cultural stories; Nongkrem is a community prayer dance.
---
**10. How can you distinguish between Rouf and Saila in terms of musical instruments and costumes?**
**Answer:**
* Rouf: Instruments like rabab, harmonium, tumbaknari; Kashmiri attire with pheran
* Saila: Instruments like dhol, nagara, flute; tribal dress with beads and shells
**Explanation:** The instrument choice and costume materials reflect regional diversity and cultural identity.
---
Dances of Our Land
Overview
In this chapter, students explore the richness of India’s traditional dance forms. Through activities like field trips, comparative studies, and project work, they gain a deep appreciation for the local and national dance heritage. The chapter enhances awareness of culture, rhythm, costume, instruments, and the social role of dance.
Key Topics Covered
1. Introduction to Regional Dances
- Dances reflect the spirit and culture of local communities.
- Students are encouraged to observe and participate in local dances known as loka nrityas.
- These dance forms are usually part of celebrations, rituals, and seasonal festivities.
2. Activity 1: Exploring Regional Dances
- Students list regional dances from their area through discussions with parents, teachers, and friends.
- Visit local artists or view their performances on video.
- Learn basic postures, gestures, and movements.
- Understand the purpose behind the dance, which may include rituals, celebrations, or storytelling.
3. Observational Study Example: Garba from Gujarat
A. Introduction
- Performed during Navaratri in worship of Goddess Durga.
- Highlights togetherness, celebration, and cultural spirit.
B. Characteristics
- Energetic, rhythmic clapping and circular formations.
- Dance performed in concentric circles with vibrant movements.
C. Accompaniments
- Traditional music using dhol, tabla, and dandia sticks.
D. Costumes
- Women: Chaniya choli
- Men: Kediyu-kafni (kurta and dhoti)
4. Activity 2: Exploring Other Dance Forms
- Watch regional dance videos from other states.
- Compare rhythm, style, instruments, and costumes.
- Group discussions enhance understanding of cultural diversity.
5. Dance Forms from Other States (Sample Table)
| State | Dance Form | Instruments & Music | Costumes | Occasion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kerala | Thiruvathira Kali | Clapping with folk songs | Mundu, Vesthi, traditional Kerala ornaments | Thiruvathira, Shivratri, Onam |
| Odisha | Saila | Dhol, nagara, flute | Sarees, dhotis, tribal beads, metal ornaments | Chaitra Parva (agriculture) |
| Kashmir | Rouf | Tumbaknari, rabab, harmonium | Pheran, embroidered robes, traditional jewellery | Eid, Navroz, weddings, harvest |
6. Activity 3: Comparison of Regional Dance Forms
Example Comparison Table:
| Dance Form | Kalbelia | Nongkrem |
|---|---|---|
| State | Rajasthan | Meghalaya |
| Costume | Angrakhi, odhani, lehenga with mirror work | Men: swords & yak hair, Women: traditional dress |
| Purpose | Rituals, mythological storytelling, Holi | Harvest blessings, Goddess worship |
| Performers | Women dance, men sing | Both men and women participate |
| Music | Pungi, dufli, been, khanjira | Drum, tangmuri |
7. Activity 4: Project on Local Dance Form
- Students create a visual project on a regional dance.
- Include:
- Pictures or drawings
- Folk songs
- Craft models of jewellery
- Presentation to class enhances creativity and confidence.
8. Activity 5: Notes on Renowned Dancers
- Choose a famous modern Indian dancer.
- Write a note and include their photo.
- Try to imitate their moves, postures, gestures.
New Terms and Definitions
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Loka Nritya | Traditional folk dances of a region, often performed in festivals or rituals |
| Dhol | A large drum used in many Indian folk music traditions |
| Dandia Sticks | Wooden sticks used in dances like Garba |
| Angrakhi | Traditional upper body garment worn in Rajasthan |
| Tangmuri | A traditional wind instrument from Meghalaya |
| Pheran | A long loose robe worn in Kashmir |
| Chaniya Choli | A traditional women's outfit from Gujarat |
| Kalbelia | A folk dance from Rajasthan performed by the Kalbelia tribe |
| Nongkrem | A ceremonial dance festival in Meghalaya |
| Tumbaknari | A small Kashmiri kettle drum used in Rouf |
Practice Questions
🟢 Easy (3)
1. What is the occasion for performing Garba? Answer: Navaratri Explanation: Garba is performed to worship Goddess Durga during the festival of Navaratri.
2. What do women wear during the Kalbelia dance? Answer: Angrakhi, odhani, and lehenga embroidered with small mirrors Explanation: This costume is traditional to Rajasthan and is decorated with mirror work.
3. Which instrument is commonly used in the Saila dance of Odisha? Answer: Dhol Explanation: The dhol is a traditional drum used by the tribal community during Saila.
🟡 Medium (2)
4. What is the main difference in performers between Kalbelia and Nongkrem dances? Answer: Kalbelia is mainly performed by women, while Nongkrem includes both men and women. Explanation: Kalbelia involves female dancers and male singers, whereas Nongkrem is a group performance by both genders.
5. What type of instrument is the tangmuri used in Nongkrem? Answer: Wind instrument Explanation: Tangmuri is a traditional wind instrument from Meghalaya.
🔴 Difficult (3)
6. How is rhythm maintained in Thiruvathira Kali? Answer: Through clapping and folk songs Explanation: Women maintain the rhythm with coordinated claps while singing.
7. Name two festivals during which Rouf is performed in Kashmir. Answer: Eid and Baisakhi Explanation: Rouf is performed during religious and seasonal festivals like Eid, Baisakhi, and Navroz.
8. Which dance includes movements in concentric circles? Answer: Garba Explanation: Garba dancers move in circular formations, often creating concentric circles.
🔵 Very Difficult (2)
9. Compare the purpose of Kalbelia and Nongkrem dances. Answer: Kalbelia is ritualistic and story-driven (Holi, mythology), while Nongkrem is performed to seek blessings for harvest and prosperity. Explanation: Kalbelia often depicts cultural stories; Nongkrem is a community prayer dance.
10. How can you distinguish between Rouf and Saila in terms of musical instruments and costumes? Answer:
- Rouf: Instruments like rabab, harmonium, tumbaknari; Kashmiri attire with pheran
- Saila: Instruments like dhol, nagara, flute; tribal dress with beads and shells Explanation: The instrument choice and costume materials reflect regional diversity and cultural identity.