ABSTRACT: This study explores the place of folk dances including Rasa, Geeh, Mujra, Nati, Thoda, and Karyala within the traditional folk songs of the Sirmaur district in Himachal Pradesh. Dance traditions form a vital component of public entertainment throughout the region, maintaining a distinct cultural identity deeply intertwined with Sirmauri folk music and balladic storytelling. The research highlights specific regional forms such as the Budha dance, performed during Diwali by troupes wearing traditional attire (Cholna) to the accompaniment of instruments like the Hulak, Thali, and Damama. It also details the Geeh and Mujra dances, which utilize dynamic rhythmic expressions, hand and waist movements, and instrumental accompaniment from the Khanjari and Dholak. Additionally, the paper examines the socio-cultural narratives embedded in these performances, such as the Bhartari ballad, depicting the legendary ascetic transformation of King Bhartrhari. Overall, the study underscores the intrinsic connection between vocal music, traditional instrumentation, and dance in preserving the living cultural heritage of Sirmaur.
KEYWORDS: Sirmauri Folk Culture, Folk Music, Budha Dance, Geeh Dance, Mujra Dance, Cultural Heritage of Himachal Pradesh, Traditional Instruments
THE PLACE OF FOLK DANCES RASA, GEEH, MUJRA, NATI, THODA, AND KARYALA IN THE TRADITIONAL FOLK SONGS OF SIRMAUR DISTRICT, HIMACHAL PRADESH
RAVINDRA SINGH
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR (VOCAL MUSIC), GOVERNMENT COLLEGE PAONTA SAHIB, SIRMOUR, HIMACHAL PRADESH, INDIA