Lavani Ka Thunga : Dance of Maharashtra

Maharashtra is known for many factors in India, like

having the highest GDP, culture, and beauty! Infact, the
ancient caves found in Ajanta and Ellora are popular
destinations for tourists and UNESCO World Heritage
sites. However, Maharashtra is also known for its
traditional folk arts, dance, and music. One of them is
known as Lavani Dance.
What is Lavani Dance?
This is a traditional folk art that originated in the 17 th
century and since then, it has hugely contributed to the
Marathi Folk Theatre.
How is it played?
The dance consists of young women dancing to beats
made from Dhokli – (ढोलकी) a percussion instrument
in nine- yard feet sarees (Kasta sari) with heavy
jewelry and make up. Lavani is known for its powerful
rhythm and traditions.

What is its meaning and type of music played in

Lavani Dance?
According to traditions, the word Lavani is derived
from the word, ‘lavanya’ meaning beauty. The songs
in Lavani Dance are usually emotional/sentimental
songs. Originally the dance was used to motivate the
military soldiers that were tired after wars happening
during the time period.
How can it be bifurcated?
Lavani Dance can be distinctly classified into two
types, Nirguni Lavani and Shringari Lavani. Nirguni
Lavani is the “Philosophical Lavani” and Shringari
Lavani is the “Physical Dance”.
Lavani developed into two distinct performances, namely
Phadachi Lavani and Baithakichi Lavani. The Lavani sung
and enacted in a public performance before a large
audience in a theatrical atmosphere is called Phadachi
Lavani. And, when the Lavani is sung in a closed chamber
for a private and select audience by a girl sitting before
the audience, it came to be known as Baithakichi Lavani.

Why has Lavani Dance become controversial in its

years of thrive?
No matter how Lavani dance has thrived in its years of
popularity, it has still caused much controversy to
make rage in the community. This is because of
physical and erotic connotations/moves displayed in
the dance. In fact, in 1948, the past Chief Minister of
Bombay, Balasaheb Gangadhar Kher had banned
Lavani Dance due to its erotic moves.

So, in a nutshell, what is Lavani Dance?

Lavani is a type of dance that consists of young
women dressed in the following-
- Kasta Sari
- Heavy Jewelry and Makeup
It is quite a traditional dance and has been popular in its
years. However, it is known to be inappropriate for its
erotic moves. This dance has totally improved the
Marathi Folk Theatre. Let’s hope this continues in the
following years!

~By Sarah Mariam John 7K.