Dandiya Raas – A vibrant and rejoyistic dance of Gujrat

Etymology of Dandiya Raas

The term “Dandiya Raas” is derived from two words: “Dandiya” and “Raas”. “Dandiya” refers to the wooden sticks that are used during the dance, while “Raas” refers to the circular movements and patterns that are a key feature of the dance.

The word this is believed to be derived from the Sanskrit word “Danda”, which means stick or staff. The dance is named after these sticks as they are an integral part of the performance and are used to create a rhythmic sound.

The word “Raas” is derived from the Sanskrit word “Rasa”, which means essence, flavor, or emotion. In the context of the dance, it refers to the joy and excitement that is expressed through circular movements and patterns.

Overall, the term this refers to a dance form that is characterized by the use of wooden sticks and circular movements and is a popular folk dance of Gujarat, India.

Forms of Dandiya Raas

There are different forms of Dandiya Raas that are popular in Gujarat, India. Some of the major forms include:

Traditional Dandiya Raas: This is the most popular and widely performed form of Dandiya Raas. It is performed with small wooden sticks called dandiyas, and is accompanied by traditional music played on instruments like the dhol, shehnai, and manjira.

Rass Garba: Rass Garba is a fusion of Dandiya Raas and Garba, which are both traditional folk dances of Gujarat. This form of dance involves intricate footwork and a combination of circular and linear movements.

Synchronized Dandiya: Synchronized this is a form of Dandiya Raas where the participants move in a synchronized pattern, creating a beautiful and mesmerizing visual display. This form of dance is often performed by professional dance troupes at cultural events and festivals.

Dandiya-Raas with fire: This is a unique and thrilling form of Dandiya Raas, where the dandiyas are lit on fire before the dance. It is a dangerous form of dance and is performed only by trained professionals.

Disco Dandiya: This is a modern version of Dandiya Raas that is performed to popular Bollywood music. The dance involves energetic and fast-paced movements, and the participants often wear neon-colored costumes and use fluorescent sticks.

Overall, this is a dynamic and versatile dance form that has evolved over the years to incorporate new elements and styles, while still remaining true to its traditional roots.

Origin of Dandiya Raas

Dandiya Raas is a traditional folk dance that originated in the Indian state of Gujarat. It is believed to have originated as a devotional dance performed in honor of the Hindu goddess Durga during the Navratri festival.

The dance is named after the dandiyas, which are small wooden sticks that are used by the dancers to strike together rhythmically. The dance involves pairs of dancers, who move in a circular formation while striking their dandiyas together in time with the music. The dancers also wear colorful traditional costumes, which add to the visual spectacle of the dance.

Over time, Dandiya Raas has evolved to become a popular social dance form, not only in Gujarat but also in other parts of India and even in other countries with significant Indian populations. Today, it is often performed at weddings, festivals, and other celebratory occasions, and has become an important part of Indian cultural heritage.

History of Dandiya Raas

The history of Dandiya Raas can be traced back several centuries to the time of Lord Krishna. It is believed that Lord Krishna used to perform a similar dance with his friends during the festival of Raas Leela.

The modern form of Dandiya Raas, however, is said to have originated in the 18th century in the state of Gujarat. The dance was initially performed as a devotional art form in honor of the Hindu goddess Durga during the Navratri festival. The dancers would gather in public places, such as village squares or temples, and perform the dance to the accompaniment of music played on traditional instruments like the dhol and the shehnai.

Over time, the dance evolved to become a more social form of entertainment, with people from different communities and social backgrounds participating in the dance. Today, Dandiya Raas has become an important part of Gujarati culture and is performed at various occasions like weddings, festivals, and social gatherings.

The dance has also spread beyond the borders of Gujarat and has gained popularity in other parts of India and even internationally, with people of Indian origin performing the dance in different countries around the world. The rich cultural history of Gujarat and the popularity of Dandiya Raas have contributed to its continued significance in contemporary times.

Format of Dandiya Raas

The format of Dandiya Raas of Gujarat typically involves a group of dancers forming a circle or concentric circles around a central point. The dancers then move around the circle, stepping and twirling in time with the music, while holding small wooden sticks known as dandiyas.

The dance is performed in pairs, with each pair facing each other within the circle. The dancers strike their dandiyas together, creating a rhythmic sound that is synchronized with the music. The steps of the dance are typically simple and repetitive, making it easy for people of all ages and skill levels to participate.

The music for Dandiya Raas typically consists of traditional Gujarati folk songs that are played on a variety of instruments, including the dhol, shehnai, and harmonium. The tempo of the music gradually increases as the dance progresses, adding to the excitement and energy of the performance.

Dandiya Raas is often performed during the nine-day Navratri festival, which is a major celebration in Gujarat. During this time, large gatherings of people come together to dance and celebrate, creating a festive atmosphere that is unique to the region.

Costumes of Dandiya Raas

The costumes worn during Dandiya Raas of Gujarat are an important part of the dance and add to the visual spectacle of the performance. The costumes are typically brightly colored and adorned with intricate designs and embroidery.

For women, the traditional costume consists of a long, flowing skirt called a chaniya, a short blouse known as a choli, and a dupatta or scarf. The Chania is usually made of cotton or silk and is often decorated with sequins, mirrors, and embroidery. The choli is typically made of a contrasting color and may also be adorned with embroidery and mirrors. The dupatta is draped over the head and shoulders, and may also be decorated with embroidery and tassels.

Men typically wear a kurta, a long shirt that falls below the knee, and a pair of loose-fitting pants called pajamas. The kurta may be made of cotton or silk and is often decorated with embroidery and mirrors. Some men also wear a colorful turban or headscarf.

In addition to the traditional costumes, dancers often wear a lot of jewelry, including necklaces, earrings, bangles, and anklets. The jewelry is typically made of silver or gold and is often decorated with colorful stones and beads.

Overall, the costumes worn during Dandiya Raas of Gujarat are an important part of the dance and reflect the vibrant and colorful culture of the region.

Musical Instruments Used in Dandiya Raas

Dandiya Raas of Gujarat is accompanied by traditional music played on a variety of instruments, which add to the energy and excitement of the dance. Some of the common musical instruments used in Dandiya Raas include:

Dhol: The dhol is a double-headed drum that is played with sticks. It provides the main beat and rhythm for the dance.

Shehnai: The shehnai is a traditional wind instrument that is similar to a flute. It is played to provide melody and add to the overall sound of the music.

Nagada: The nagada is a large, two-headed drum that is played with sticks. It is used to create a powerful and rhythmic sound that complements the dhol.

Manjira: The manjira is a small percussion instrument that consists of a pair of cymbals. It is played by clapping the two cymbals together and provides a light and cheerful sound to the music.

Harmonium: The harmonium is a keyboard instrument that is played by pumping air into a set of reeds. It is used to provide harmony and melody to the music.

Bansuri: The bansuri is a bamboo flute that is used to provide melody and create a light and soothing sound.

Overall, the music played during Dandiya Raas of Gujarat is a vital component of the dance and helps to create a festive and joyful atmosphere. The instruments used in the music are an important part of the cultural heritage of the region and add to the uniqueness of the dance.

Difference Between Dandiya Raas and Garba

Dandiya Raas and Garba are both traditional folk dances that originated in the state of Gujarat, India. While they share some similarities, there are also some key differences between the two dances.

Musical instruments: Dandiya Raas is accompanied by traditional music played on instruments like the dhol, shehnai, and manjira, while Garba is typically accompanied by music played on the dhol, tabla, and harmonium.

Style of dance: Dandiya Raas is performed with small wooden sticks called dandiyas, which are struck together to create a rhythmic sound. Garba, on the other hand, is performed without any sticks and involves clapping of hands and circular movements.

Costume: The costumes worn during Dandiya Raas and Garba are different. For Dandiya Raas, women wear a chaniya choli, which is a long skirt and blouse combination, while for Garba, women wear a ghagra choli, which is a long skirt and blouse combination with a dupatta or scarf draped over the head and shoulders.

Occasion: Dandiya Raas is typically performed during the Navratri festival, which is a nine-day celebration that honors the Hindu goddess Durga, while Garba is performed during the same festival but is more commonly associated with the worship of the goddess Amba.

Steps: The steps of Dandiya Raas involve twirling and moving in a circular pattern around a central point, while the steps of Garba involve circular movements and clapping of hands in a rhythmic pattern.

Overall, while both Dandiya Raas and Garba are energetic and colorful folk dances that are popular in Gujarat, they differ in terms of the musical instruments used, the style of dance, the costumes worn, and the occasion for which they are performed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Dandiya Raas Folk Dance of Gujarat:

Q1: What is Dandiya Raas?

A1: This is a traditional folk dance form that originated in the state of Gujarat, India. It involves groups of people dancing in circular formations, wielding colorful sticks (called dandiyas) while performing rhythmic and energetic movements.

Q2: When is Dandiya Raas performed?

A2: This is primarily performed during the festival of Navratri, which is a nine-night celebration honoring the Hindu goddess Durga. The dance form is also popular during other festive occasions like weddings and cultural events.

Q3: What are the key features of Dandiya Raas?

A3: This is characterized by the use of dandiyas (colorful sticks) and intricate footwork. The dancers form circles or lines, moving in synchronized patterns, and striking their dandiyas with those of their partners while following the rhythm of the music.

Q4: Can anyone learn and participate in Dandiya Raas?

A4: Yes, Dandiya Raas is open to anyone who wishes to learn and participate. It is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds, and many dance academies and cultural organizations offer Dandiya Raas classes to teach the dance form.

Q5: What is the significance of Dandiya Raas?

A5: This is associated with the celebration of Navratri and is considered a joyful and vibrant dance that invokes the spirit of devotion, celebration, and unity. It is also a social dance form that brings people together, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.

Q6: What are the traditional costumes worn during Dandiya Raas?

A6: The traditional attire for this includes colorful and vibrant outfits for both men and women. Women typically wear chaniya cholis, which are flared skirts paired with matching blouses and adorned with embroidery and mirror work. Men often wear kurta-pajama or traditional Gujarati attire.

Q7: What kind of music is played during Dandiya Raas?

A7: The music for this is known as “Dandiya Raas Garba” and is traditionally played using a combination of traditional instruments like dhol, dholak, and tabla along with modern elements. The music consists of lively beats and traditional Gujarati folk songs.

Q8: Are there specific dance steps in Dandiya Raas?

A8: Yes, Dandiya Raas has a set of specific dance steps and formations that are followed by the participants. The dance steps include various rhythmic movements like twirls, claps, strikes with dandiyas, and coordinated footwork, which are performed in sync with the music.

Q9: Where can one participate in or watch Dandiya Raas’ performances?

A9: During Navratri, Dandiya Raas events are organized in communities, temples, and cultural venues across Gujarat. Many cities around the world with a significant Gujarati population also organize Dandiya Raas events during Navratri, offering opportunities for participation and enjoyment.

Q10: How can one learn more about Dandiya Raas or get involved in the dance form?

A10: To learn more about this or get involved in the dance form, one can join local dance classes, cultural organizations, or community groups that specialize in Gujarati folk dances. Additionally, attending Dandiya Raas events and festivals during Navratri can provide a firsthand experience of the dance and its cultural significance.