Folk Dances of Uttarakhand

The Dance Traditions of the Himalayas

Uttarakhand's folk dances are deeply connected to its religious, agricultural and martial traditions. From the Chholiya warrior sword dance of weddings to the trance-like possessions of Pandav Nritya, these dances are not mere performances — they are living expressions of community identity and spiritual practice.

1. Chholiya (छोलिया)

Origin: Kumaon region • Occasion: Weddings, festivals

Chholiya is Kumaon's most iconic folk dance — a spectacular sword and shield dance performed by a troupe of men in elaborate costumes at the head of wedding processions. The dancers wear ornate turbans, long dresses and carry traditional swords and shields, performing complex fighting sequences that commemorate the martial heritage of the Kumaon Rajputs.

A Chholiya troupe typically consists of 20–30 performers accompanied by Dhol, Damau, Ransingha and Turhi. The sound of the brass horns and the clashing of swords creates an electrifying atmosphere. Seeing a Chholiya procession is one of the most memorable cultural experiences in Uttarakhand.

2. Langvir Nritya

Origin: Garhwal region • Occasion: Fairs, cultural festivals

An extraordinary acrobatic dance performed by a single male dancer who performs gymnastic feats on top of a tall bamboo pole erected in an open field. The dancer climbs to the top of the 10–15 foot pole and performs backbends, headstands and spins while the crowd watches below — accompanied by Dhol and Damau.

Langvir Nritya requires years of training and tremendous physical strength. It is performed mainly at major fairs in Garhwal and represents the physical courage and agility valued in the hill warrior tradition.

3. Pandav Nritya

Origin: Garhwal region • Occasion: Winter festivals, village rituals

One of India's most unique theatrical traditions — Pandav Nritya is a multi-day dance-drama based on the Mahabharata. Villagers who are ritually possessed by the spirits of the Pandavas perform intense, trancelike dances. The performances are conducted in winter and can last from 5 to 15 days.

The community treats performers as actual divine manifestations of the Pandavas during the performance period. Intense Dhol-Damau drumming accompanies the dance. The tradition is strongest in villages of Uttarkashi and Tehri Garhwal districts.

4. Jhora (झोड़ा)

Origin: Kumaon region • Occasion: Uttarayani, Holi, festivals

A joyful circle dance performed by groups of men and women together. Participants hold hands forming a large moving circle, swaying and stepping rhythmically while singing folk songs. Jhora is the most democratically participatory dance — anyone can join the circle. The Uttarayani fair at Bageshwar features some of the largest and most vibrant Jhora performances.

5. Thandya

Origin: Garhwal • Occasion: Festivals, cultural programs

A graceful group dance performed by women — characterised by elegant, slow movements that contrast with the more energetic masculine dances. Women dressed in traditional Garhwali attire perform in synchronised groups with gentle rhythmic steps and hand gestures that tell stories of nature and devotion.

6. Barada Nati

Origin: Jaunsar Bawar region (Dehradun/Chakrata) • Occasion: All major festivals

The signature dance of the Jaunsari tribal community of Chakrata — a vigorous, high-energy group dance performed at all major celebrations. Men and women dance together in rows with stepping, hopping and turning movements. Barada Nati is recognised as part of Uttarakhand's intangible cultural heritage.

7. Chhopati

Origin: Kumaon • Occasion: Competitive events, fairs

A competitive music-dance form where performers from different villages challenge each other in singing, storytelling and movement. The winner is decided by audience appreciation.

Where to Watch Folk Dances