Dance

For centuries, Rajasthan has been synonymous with romance, a desert state with martial kingdoms where not just tales of valour, splendid forts and fairytale palaces, but also its rich repertoire of art and culture, have played a significant part in building its heritage. Visitors associate it as much with history as with music and dance. Indeed, it is not unusual for them to see musicians, bards, singers, performers and other entertainers even by the streetside. Music and dance have been woven into the social fabric of Rajasthan. The rhythms of celebration will accompany you throughout your visit to the state.As in most folk traditions, there are songs and dances to celebrate every aspect of life - birth, naming ceremonies, marriage, the changing seasons, love and separation, or devotion to god. These events are deeply enmeshed within the lives of the people, and they have zealously guarded their cultural traditions and historical legacy.
Professional performers like the Bhaats, Dholis, Mirasis, Nats, Bhopas and Bhands are omnipresent across the state. They are patronised by the villagers who participate actively in the shows put up by these travelling entertainers. Some of the better known forms of entertainment are:

Fire Dance

The Jasnathis of Bikaner and Chum are renowned for their tantric powers and this dance is in keeping with their lifestyle. A large ground is prepared with live wood and charcoal where the Jasnathi men and boys jump on to the fire to the accompaniment of drum beats. The music gradually rises in tempo and reaches a crescendo, the dancers seem to be in a trance like state. Drum Dance: This is a professional dance-form from Jalore. Five men with huge drums round their necks,some with huge cymbals accompany a dancer who holds a naked sword in his mouth and performs vigorously by twirling three painted sticks.

Teerah Taali

The Kamad community of Pokhran and Deedwana perform this dance in honour of theft deity, Baba Ramdeo. A rather unusual performance where the men play a four-stringed instrument called a chau-tara and the women sit with dozens of manjeeras, or cymbals, tied on all over their bodies and strike them with the ones they hold in their hands. Sometimes, the women also hold a sword between their teeth or place pots with lighted lamps on their heads.

Pabuji Ki Phach

A 14th century folk hero, Pabuji is revered by the Bhopa community. The phad, or scroll, which is about 10 metres long, highlights the life and heroic deed of Pabuji. The Bhopas are invited by villagers to perform in their areas during times of sickness and misfortune. The ballad is sung by the Bhopa as he plays the Ravan-hattha and he is joined by his wife who holds a lamp and illuminates the relevant portions at appropriate points.