Nati is a very popular dance form of Himachal Pradesh. Even after the modernization, Himachal has not forgotten about its rich culture and roots. Nati is mainly associated with the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. The dance depicts Raas Lila and tells the tale of Krishna and Gopis.
You will also see dancers perform in other stories but they all are associated with Hindu gods and goddesses. During festival season various types of folk dances and folk songs can be witnessed by travelers. Nati is performed at weddings and other joyous occasions as well.
Nati Dance Performance
There is no restriction on the male or female dancers, both can participate in the Nati dance. In the olden days, women and men used to perform is separate groups. The group of dancers is led by some main male dancers who carry a fly whisk.
Initially, all dancers hold hand and make a circle. It can be considered a slow dance but in between styles they pick up beat and dance according to beats.
At the end of the Nati, a Yagna is performed by the dancers to pay homage to gods and goddesses.
Dance Costume
Both male and female clothing of Himachal Pradesh are beautiful so think about the costumes that they get specially made for dancing. Yes, they are mesmerizing.
Men wear woollen robes with churidar and women wear long robes similar to that of male. On the head, the male wears Himachali topi or a hat with flowers fixed on it whereas women cover their head with scarves.
Music and Instruments
Nagara, shenai, karnal, flute, nursing and dhol are the main instruments that are used to play the song during Nati performance. Musicians are called Tunis in the local language.
Nati is famous locally and worldwide. After some distance, it is changed slightly which is why there is more than one variation of Nati dance. There is-
- Sirmauri Nati/Sirmour Nati
- Lahauli Nati
- Shimla Nati
- Kulluvi Nati
- Kinnauri Nati
The songs sung during the dance have stories. They tell us about the old folklore. These dance forms and folk songs are the reason that Himachal has not forgotten so many beautiful things about its history.
Nati dance has made a place for itself in the Guinness Book of World Records for the biggest crowd performing a folk dance.
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