Rouf dance is a traditional and rhythmic folk dance of Jammu and Kashmir. Amidst the rows of blossoming tulips, you will find women wearing colorful dresses celebrating spring. The celebration is grand and includes some charismatic traditions.
Origins of Rouf Dance
Rouf dance originated in the Muslim community of Kashmir. Gradually, it was adopted by everyone in the valley. It is so elegant that visitors can’t take their eyes off the performance. Everyone enjoys being drenched in the charisma and blissful tune of the beautiful valley.
Rouf is primarily performed to celebrate the harvesting season of spring. Harvesting season is a special occasion for the farmers, women celebrate this occasion by dancing in unison. If you visit Kashmir during spring then you will witness not only the blossoming buds swinging with joy but also the women and girls of Kashmir grooving in the spirit of celebration. If you are lucky you can catch a performance of the Rouf dance during Eid as well.
Rauf Dance Performance
Let me paint you a picture of the delightful scenery of Rouf. Its spring and the Kashmir valleys are filled with colorful flowers, and the hearts of the Kashmiri people are filled with joy. They are celebrating the arrival of spring by gathering together and performing Rouf dance.
The women wear Salwar Kameez covered with an embroidered Pheran. To add beauty to their attire there is a headscarf called Kasaab or Daejj. They wear traditional silver jewelry to enhance the look. The women form two chains of dancers facing each other. As poetic music starts, they start swinging forward and backward gracefully. All the magic is done by the footwork and torso movement. The two rows interact while dancing and enjoy the rhythmic poetry. A peaceful ambiance is created while women perform Rouf and welcome spring.
Music and Instruments
In such an informal gathering, only a few singers are required to accompany the dancers. In the case of stage performances, traditional instruments such as Rabab are played in the background.
Rouf dance is like a thank-you note to nature. It’s a musical gesture of gratefulness for bringing the happiness of spring to the valleys of Kashmir. Rouf is simple, and you can also dance along and enjoy the beats. Remember to visit Kashmir during spring and break a leg with the interesting footwork of Rouf.
Pingback: All Folk Dances of India - Auchitya
great explanation