Nati (Folk dance of Himachal Pradesh)

Domain:Performing arts

State:

Description:

Himachal Pradesh has retained its rich traditional culture in spite of the growing modernization. The mountains and valleys of this region are reflected in its dance forms. Nati dance is the most famous folk dance of this state. It is performed by a group of people with accompanying musicians. The dance group comprises both men and women, headed usually by a man carrying a fly whisk. The dress of the dance group reflects the gaddi or the Himachali nomads. Men wear a woolen robe with yards of sashes tied on the lower back. They also wear a symbolic Himachali topi or hat with flowers fixed on the topmost part of it. Women, on the other hand, wear churidars, chola, ornaments and cover their head with colourful scarves. Musicians are known as Tunis and the instruments used during the performances are flute, dhol, nagara, narsingha, karnal, and a shenai. A yagya is performed by the dancers at the end of a Nati performance as a homage to the Gods and Goddesses.