Dhol cholam is a folk dance of Manipur. Dhol Cholam derives its name from the musical instrument dhol itself. It is a drum dance that can be seen performing at a large scale during Holi season. Dhol or drum is a common instrument played in almost every folk dance of Manipur. In Manipur, Dhol Cholam is also known as Yaosang.
The dance was introduced to young men as martial art. The kings of Manipur encouraged this dance in every corner of Manipur. And since that time it has been evolving. There are various communities that are still trying to keep this art form alive.
Dhol Cholam Performance
Dhol cholam is a masculine dance hence only male dancers perform this dance form. The specialty of dhol cholam lies in its rapid shift from slow movements to thunderous ones. The dancers start their dance with slow movements according to the dhol with and then they dance with vigorous movements are the dhol starts beating rapidly.
Music and Instruments
The main instrument of dhol cholam is a dhol or drum. All dancers have these drums attached to them in front of them. They beat the drums continuously and move their bodies with them. Originally no other instruments are used during the performance.
Costume
Dancers wear white kurta, dhoti, turban, and a shawl. For turban and shawls, different colors like red, yellow, marron, and green are used.
Dhol cholam was probably an exercise routine of soldiers and young men to keep themselves fit and strong. Gym or any other kind of equipment was not available then, it is not a surprise that people came up with their own exercising routine. It could also have been an exercise to keep soldiers excited with the beating of the drums.