IiNDIAN DANCE 81
for example, are amazing for their grace and for their potential to generate militancy as well. The militancy of dance forms in India which remain popular even today is supplemented by the fact that even the classical dance forms, despite idealizing their content, have not been able to shed the martial and gymnastic poses of the early forms from which they originated.
All tribal/folk dances were forms of collective expression specifically meant for creating a sense of fraternity and were invariably performed prior to a big hunt or a war. The whole intricate pattern of vigorous body movements they displayed was a method of energizing the body and mind for action. In fact, the best dancers in serveral tribal communities were also their best warriors.
Every region in India seems to have its own variety of dances upholding the militant traditions. Among the Nagas in north-eastern India, there is an elaborate spear dance in which each dancer brandishes a spear above his head and simulates the various movements of attack and defence. The dance starts with leisurely movements and slowly builds up the tempo ending in a climax of swift, breath-taking leaps in the air, all in perfect rhythm and synchronization with drums and cymbals. Similar kinds of dances are common to other communities like the Semas, Ghangs, Rengmas, Maos, Aos and Konyaks in the area.
In Bengal, the dances of Raibenshes and Dhalis arc elaborate series of awe-inspiring physical exercises which are close to the traditions of unarmed combat. Orissa also has several forms of dances that arc exceptional for their sheer power and militancy. The important varieties are the Paik, Gotipua and Garudabhan dances, from which the Chau dance originated.
Every part of the country has its own dance forms using swords, shields and sticks which arc all indicative of and preparations for combats. The sword and shield dances of Maharashtra, Rajsthan, Coorg afnd Kerala are well known. Dance forms with sticks are common to Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Tamil Nadu (Kolattam) and Gujarat and Rajasthan (Daand). Kerala has also specific forms like Pulavarkali and Velvakali utilizing swords, shields or sticks.
The Gonds, Bastar Marias and Bhils of the Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Andhra and Bengal belt have exciting hunting dances which condition the human body for agility and control. The Irulas of Tamil Nadu also have a robust form of hunting dance called Elelakaradi. In the Kumaon region of Uttar Pradesh, the