List of Folk Dances of Different States in India

Table of Contents

Folk Dances of Different States in India

India, a land of diverse cultures, languages, and traditions, is renowned for its rich tapestry of folk dances that reflect the essence of its regional heritage. From the energetic Bhangra of Punjab to the graceful Ghoomar of Rajasthan, each state in India boasts unique traditional dances that are deeply rooted in its history, festivals, and community life. In this article, we explore the folk dances of different states in India, celebrating the country’s cultural diversity and providing a glimpse into the Indian cultural heritage that captivates audiences worldwide.

Static GK Notes and Exam Support by Rohit Academy :

Rohit Academy offers simplified Static GK notes designed for easy comprehension, ideal for competitive exams such as UPSC, SSC, banking, railways, and state-level tests. The notes feature FAQs based on previous exam papers, targeting high-scoring topics to aid preparation. Free study resources are available to support students across these exams. Check Rohit Academy’s official website or platform for access.

What Are Folk Dances of India?

Folk dances of India are traditional performances passed down through generations, often performed during festivals, celebrations, or community gatherings. Unlike classical dances like Bharatanatyam or Kathak, Indian folk dances are spontaneous, vibrant, and closely tied to local traditions, music, and costumes. Each state in India has its own set of cultural dances that tell stories of history, harvest, love, and spirituality, making them an integral part of Indian cultural heritage.

Folk Dances of Indian States – State Wise List

Below is a state-wise list of Indian folk dances:

State	Folk Dances
Andhra Pradesh	Kuchipudi, Vilasini Natyam, Andhra Natyam, Bhamakalpam, Veeranatyam, Dappu, Tappeta Gullu, Lambadi, Dhimsa, Kolattam, Butta Bommalu
Arunachal Pradesh	Buiya, Chalo, Wancho, Pasi Kongki, Ponung, Popir, Bardo Chham
Assam	Bihu, Bichhua, Natpuja, Maharas, Kaligopal, Bagurumba, Naga dance, Khel Gopal, Tabal Chongli, Canoe, Jhumura Hobjanai
Bihar	Jata-Jatin, Bakho-Bakhain, Panwariya, Sama Chakwa, Bidesia
Chhattisgarh	Gaur Maria, Panthi, Raut Nacha, Pandwani, Vedamati, Kapalik, Bharthari Charit, Chandaini
Goa	Tarangamel, Koli, Dekhni, Fugdi, Shigmo, Ghode, Modni, Samayi nrutya, Jagar, Ranmale, Gonph, Tonnya mell
Gujarat	Garba, Dandiya Ras, Tippani Juriun, Bhavai
Haryana	Jhumar, Phag, Daph, Dhamal, Loor, Gugga, Khor, Gagor
Himachal Pradesh	Jhora, Jhali, Chharhi, Dhaman, Chhapeli, Mahasu, Nati, Dangi
Jammu and Kashmir	Rauf, Hikat, Mandjas, Kud Dandi Nach, Damali
Jharkhand	Alkap, Karma Munda, Agni, Jhumar, Janani Jhumar, Mardana Jhumar, Paika, Phagua, Hunta Dance, Mundari Dance, Sarhul, Barao, Jhitka, Danga, Domkach, Ghora Naach
State	Folk Dances
Karnataka	Yakshagan, Huttari, Suggi, Kunitha, Karga, Lambsi
Kerala	Kathakali (Classical), Ottam Thulal Mohiniattam, Kaikottikali
Madhya Pradesh	Jawara, Matki, Aada, Khada Nach, Phulpati, Grida Dance, Selalarki, Selabhadoni, Maanch
Maharashtra	Lavani, Nakata, Koli, Lezim, Gafa, Dahikala Dasavtar, Bohada
Manipur	Dol Cholam, Thang Ta, Lai Haraoba, Pung Cholom, Khamba Thaibi, Nupa Dance, Raslila, Khubak Ishei, Lhou Sha
Meghalaya	Ka Shad Suk Mynsiem, Nongkrem, Laho
Mizoram	Cheraw Dance, Khuallam, Chailam, Sawlakin, Chawnglaizawn, Zangtalam, Par Lam, Sarlamkai / Solakia, Tlanglam
Nagaland	Rangma, Bamboo Dance, Zeliang, Nsuirolians, Gethinglim, Temangnetin Hetaleulee
Odisha	Odissi (Classical), Savari, Ghumara, Painka, Munari, Chhau (***Note Odissi is the oldest dance of India.)
Punjab	Bhangra, Giddha, Daff, Dhaman, Bhand, Naqual,
Rajasthan	Ghumar, Chakri, Ganagor, Jhulan Leela, Jhuma, Suisini, Ghapal, Kalbeliya
Sikkim	Chu Faat Dance, Sikmari, Singhi Chaam or the Snow Lion Dance, Yak Chaam, Denzong Gnenha, Tashi Yangku Dance, Khukuri Naach, Chutkey Naach, Maruni Dance,
Tamil Nadu	Bharatanatyam (Classical), Kumi, Kolattam, Kavadi (***Note Bharatanatyam is the national dance of India.)
Tripura	Hojagiri
Uttar Pradesh	Nautanki, Raslila, Kajri, Jhora, Chappeli, Jaita
Uttarakhand	Garhwali, Kumayuni, Kajari, Jhora, Raslila, Chappeli
West Bengal	Kathi, Gambhira, Dhali, Jatra, Baul, Marasia, Mahal, Keertan
Lakshadweep	Lava, Kolkali, Parichakali

Classical Dances of India

List of Classical dances in India	State of Origin
Bharatnatyam	Tamil Nadu
Kathak	Uttar Pradesh
Kuchipudi	Andhra Pradesh
Odissi	Odisha
Kathakali	Kerala
Sattriya	Assam
Manipuri	Manipur
Mohiniyattam	Kerala