Dance Forms of States in India
A union of states, India is a sovereign, secular, democratic republic with a parliamentary system of government. The system of government in the states closely resembles that of the Centre. There are 28 states and 8 union territories in the country. The union territories are administered through an administrator appointed by the President. The demographics, history and culture, costumes, festivals, language etc. of India’s big and small states and union territories are detailed here. This section introduces you to the various states/union territories of the country.
India is a country full of diversity where each state has its own unique culture, traditions and arts. In these traditions, religion holds a prominent place. Dance is not only a medium of entertainment, but it is also an expression of social, religious and cultural sentiments of a region. Dance Forms Of States In India With Names are an integral part of this rich cultural expression.
There are two main types of dance prevalent in India – Classical Dance Forms Of India and Folk Dance Forms Of India.
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Classical Dance
Classical dance is based on Indian traditional music, postures and expressions. These dances are based on ancient texts like Natya Shastra. Classical Dances Of India With States include Bharatanatyam (Tamil Nadu), Kathak (North India), Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh), Odissi (Odisha), Manipuri (Manipur) etc. These are some of the 8 Classical Dance Forms In India taught and performed widely.
Folk Dance
Folk dance is associated with the traditions, festivals, seasons or lifestyle of a particular community, tribe or region. It is simple, colourful and more festive. Such as Bhangra (Punjab), Garba (Gujarat), Bahu (Assam), Ghoomar (Rajasthan), Yagan (Karnataka) etc. These are among the Folk Dance Forms Of States In India that are cherished for their vibrancy and tradition.
Every state of India has one or more dance forms which reflect its cultural splendor. Indian States And Their Dance Forms With Names showcase the depth of regional identity. Dance is not only a medium to express emotions but it is also a tradition that binds the society together.
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Dance Forms of North India
Uttar Pradesh – Kathak
One of the classical dance forms. It has a special style of Ghrunghru, Bhaav-Bhangama and whirling. Famous for portraying Krishna and Laila. Featured among the Famous Dance Forms Of India.
Punjab – Bhangra and Gidha
Bhangra is performed by men and Gidha by women. This dance is associated with agriculture and festivals.
Rajasthan – Ghumru, Kalbelia, Bhavai
Ghumru is performed by women wearing Ghaghra. Kalbelia is a dance of the snake community.
Haryana – Dhamal, Faag
These dances are associated with folk festivals and rural life of Haryana.
Himachal Pradesh – Naat
This is the most popular folk dance, in which traditional musical instruments are used.
Jammu and Kashmir – Rouf, Bhaand Pather
Rouf is a dance performed by women while Bhaand Pather is a combination of acting and dance.
Dance Forms of Western India
Gujarat – Garba, Dandiya Raas
These dances are performed during Navratri in colourful clothes and accompanied by cymbals. They are widely known in the List Of Dance Forms In India State Wise.
Maharashtra – Lavani, Tamasha
Lavani is a wonderful amalgamation of emotions and rhythm. Tamasha is a stage folk drama.
Goa – Fugdi, Dekni
Portuguese influence is also seen in Goa’s culture. These dances are performed on festivals and occasions.
Dance Forms of Eastern India
Odisha – Odissi
This is a major classical dance. It has a beautiful combination of Tribhanga mridhra and Bhaav-Rasa. Recognized in the List Of Classical Dances Of India State Wise.
Bihar – Jaat-Jatan, Bidesiya
These depict rural folk life and social issues.
Jharkhand – Chhau, Joomar
Chhau is a semi-classical dance in which mud is used.
West Bengal – Gaudiya dance, Chhau dance
Here a mixture of Chhau and classical styles is found.
Dance Forms of Central India
Madhya Pradesh – Matki, Grada
Matki dance is performed by women by keeping a pot on the head. Grada is a folk dance related to agriculture.
Chhattisgarh – Raut Nacha, Panthi
Raut Nacha is the dance of the Yadav community, Panthi is based on the devotion of Saint Raidas.
Dance Forms of Southern India
Tamil Nadu – Bharatnatyam, Karagattam
Bharatnatyam is the oldest classical dance of India. Karagattam is performed by keeping a pot filled with water on the head. It is often featured in Different Dance Forms Of India With States educational material.
Andhra Pradesh – Kuchapudi, Veeranatyam
Kuchapudi is a classical dance form which is a beautiful combination of acting and dance.
Telangana – Perani Shivatandavam, Lambadi
Perani is a heroic dance performed in the worship of Lord Shiva.
Kerala – Kathakali, Mohinyattam, Theyyam
Kathakali has colourful make-up and masks. Mohinyattam is a delicate dance performed by women.
Karnataka – Yangaan, Dollu Kunnitha
Yangaan is a theatrical style, while Dollu Kunnitha is danced to the beat of drums.
Dance Forms of North-Eastern India
Assam – Bihu
Bihu is the most prominent folk dance of Assam, which is performed during spring season. It is often included in the Dance Forms In India With Names for students.
Manipur – Manipuri, Thang-Ta
Manipuri classical dance is a wonderful amalgamation of devotion and gentleness.
Tripura – Hojagari
This dance is performed by women of the Rang community of Tripura.
Meghalaya – Ngkrem, Shad Suk Minsem
These dances are part of nature worship and festivals of the community.
Mizoram – Cheraw (Bamboo Dance)
Here the dance is performed between wooden sticks. Known for its uniqueness in Pictures Of Dance Forms In India publications.
Nagaland – Chang Lo, Jelyang
These dances depict the tribal warrior culture of Nagaland.
Arunachal Pradesh – Ponung, Wancho Dance
The dances here are related to nature and tribal traditions.
Sikkim – Sanghi Chham, Yak Chham
These dances are related to the worship of Yak and Him Tadrea (Singhi).
Indian classical and folk dances are living reflections of the country’s diverse cultural heritage, with each dance linked to a specific region and its people. These dances are not just artistic expressions but also embody social norms, stories and customs, deeply rooted in the cultural context of their origin. Individuals like Guru K Lucharan Mohapatra for Odissi and Rukmini Devi Arundale for Bharatanatyam are examples of those who have made significant contributions to the preservation and development of these art forms. They’ve made their mark in what we call the Traditional Dance Forms Of India.
Conclusion
Dance forms have a special place in the diverse cultural heritage of India. Each state has its own unique dance which reflects its culture, tradition, costumes and music. The Different Types Of Dance Forms In India help promote unity in diversity through art.
While classical dance forms are based on discipline and rhythm, folk dance is a reflection of the simplicity and joy of common people’s life.
International Dance Day, celebrated every year on April 29, was initiated in 1982 by the International Dance Council, a non-governmental organisation affiliated to UNESCO. The purpose of dedicating a separate day to this art was to draw public attention to the art. On this occasion, here is a look at some of the Popular Dance Forms In India and their leading artists.
FAQ’s Of Indian States and their Dance Forms
What are the dance forms of India’s 29 states?
Well, it’s actually 28 states as of 2025—but every single one is bursting with cultural expression through its own dance form! From the storytelling grace of Bharatanatyam in Tamil Nadu to the vibrant beats of Bihu in Assam, each state showcases its soul through rhythm. Just check out a good list of Indian States And Their Dance Forms With Names—it’s like taking a cultural road trip across India!
What are the 10 famous dance forms of India?
Hard to pick just ten, but here’s a crowd-favorite lineup: Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Mohiniyattam, Sattriya, Bihu, and Garba. From spiritual classics to folk party starters, these dances span the spectrum of emotion and tradition. Whether you’re diving into Classical Dances Of India With States or just grooving to Folk Dance Forms Of States In India, these styles are national icons.
What are the 7 traditional dances of India?
India’s classical heart beats through these 7 traditional forms: Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Kathakali, and Mohiniyattam. Each rooted in the Natya Shastra and centuries of devotion, they aren’t just performances—they’re living legacies of India’s artistic soul. Want to explore them state-wise? Check any List Of Classical Dances Of India State Wise.
भारत के 7 पारंपरिक नृत्य कौन से हैं?
भारत के सात प्रमुख पारंपरिक शास्त्रीय नृत्य हैं—भरतनाट्यम (तमिलनाडु), कथक (उत्तर भारत), ओडिसी (ओडिशा), मणिपुरी (मणिपुर), कुचिपुड़ी (आंध्र प्रदेश), कथकली और मोहिनीअट्टम (केरल)। ये नृत्य हमारी सांस्कृतिक विरासत के प्रतीक हैं और List Of Classical Dance Forms Of India में इन्हें प्रमुखता से दर्शाया गया है।
Which Indian state is known for its dance form?
Honestly, every Indian state owns its signature style! Tamil Nadu’s elegance shows in Bharatanatyam, Punjab pumps energy through Bhangra, Assam radiates joy in Bihu, and Odisha mesmerizes with Odissi. Explore any Indian States And Their Dance Forms With Names list—you’ll see how dance mirrors each region’s soul.
What is the folk dance of India’s 29 states?
India’s 28 states and their folk dances are a splash of joy and heritage! Think Bhangra in Punjab, Ghoomar in Rajasthan, Rouf in Jammu & Kashmir, and Lavani in Maharashtra. These Folk Dance Forms Of States In India are rooted in daily life, seasons, and festivals. They’re storytelling in motion—vibrant, raw, and real.
How many states are in India in 2025?
As of 2025, India officially has 28 states and 8 union territories. And yes, each state contributes its own unique rhythm to the national tapestry—be it through language, dress, or dance. If you’re diving into culture, Indian States And Their Dance Forms Pdf-type lists are goldmines of tradition!
Which state’s dance is Agni?
The fiery Agni dance comes from Telangana. It’s a tribal ritual performance that channels energy, devotion, and raw power. Rarely commercialized, this Traditional Dance Form Of India reflects spiritual intensity and cultural depth. It’s like watching a flame come alive—literally and metaphorically.
What is the full form of dance?
No acronyms here—dance is pure movement and emotion! Whether it’s Bharatanatyam narrating divine love or a folk troupe celebrating harvest, dance is India’s heart in motion. Lists like Dance Forms Of States In India capture this beautifully, turning rhythms into records of heritage.
What is the toughest dance form in India?
That title often goes to Kathakali from Kerala. Imagine hours of eye training, intricate mudras, dramatic storytelling, and performing in full costume—it’s no joke! This Classical Dance Form Of India isn’t just tough; it’s transformational. No wonder it’s all over Dance Forms Of India With Pictures collections.
Which is better, Kathak or Bharatanatyam?
Tricky question—depends on your taste! Bharatanatyam is sculptural and spiritual, while Kathak dazzles with footwork and storytelling. Both are celebrated gems in Classical Dances Of India With States. Want drama? Go Kathak. Prefer poise? Choose Bharatanatyam. Why not both?
Who is the god of classical dance?
That would be Lord Nataraja, a cosmic form of Lord Shiva. His divine dance symbolizes the rhythm of the universe—creation, preservation, and destruction. You’ll spot his iconic pose in temples and art schools alike. He’s the eternal muse behind Classical Dance Forms Of India.
What is the dance of Gujarat?
Garba and Dandiya Raas steal the spotlight in Gujarat, especially during Navratri! With swirling skirts and rhythmic claps, these Folk Dance Forms Of India are about joy, devotion, and community. Did you know Garba was originally performed around a clay lamp symbolizing the goddess Durga?
What is the dance of India’s 29 states?
Technically 28 states, but each has its own rhythm! From Kathak in Uttar Pradesh to Sattriya in Assam, Indian States And Their Dance Forms With Names make for a vivid guidebook. Flip through any 29 States And Their Dance Forms With Pictures collection—it’s a celebration of identity, history, and joy.
Which state’s dance is Lava?
Lava is a rhythmic folk dance of Lakshadweep, a coastal union territory. Performed by islanders, it celebrates the sea, nature, and island spirit. Though not as mainstream, it’s a beautiful addition to Indian Dance Forms that highlight regional vibrance.
What is the dance of Sikkim?
In Sikkim, dances like Singhi Chham and Yak Chham blend Buddhist tradition with nature worship. These Folk Dance Forms Of States In India reflect harmony, folklore, and respect for the Himalayas. Ever seen a masked Singhi Chham dancer swirl through misty mountain air? It’s magic.
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Buddhism in India
