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Traditional Dance Forms of

Lakshadweep

By : GROUP D
Class : IXᵗʰ- B
ROLL NO. : 28 TO 36
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INDEX
1. Introduction : Experience the vibrant traditional dance forms of Lakshadweep,
celebrating its cultural heritage with grace and
energy………………………………………………………… 3
2. Kolkali : Kolkali is a lively folk dance of Kerala, but it is also performed in
Lakshadweep due to cultural similarities. Dancers form two rows and engage
in a mock fight using short sticks. The movements are synchronized to the rhythm
of the
music……………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………… 4
3. Parichakali : Parichakali is a vibrant and energetic dance form of Lakshadweep,
performed by men. It involves the use of colorful sticks, which the dancers hold
and strike together in a rhythmic pattern while performing various dance movements…… 6
4. Lava Dance : Lava Dance is a popular dance form of Lakshadweep, mainly
performed by women. It is a group dance where dancers form a circle and move
gracefully, swaying their bodies and clapping their hands in
rhythm…………………………………… 8
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INTRODUCTION
Lakshadweep dance as any other art form
of this union territory resembles that of
Kerala due to its historical past. The
young men of Lakshadweep are known
to perform some spirited folk dances that
contributes to the fabric of Lakshadweep
culture as a whole.
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KOLKALI
The term ‘Kol’ means stick. The dance is
performed with the sticks in hands according to
the rhythm of it. So, the dance is called Kolkali
that literally refers to a stick dance. This
particular folk dance is very much popular
among the islanders of Lakshadweep. It is so
spectacular that Kolkali has become one of the
attractions of Lakshadweep among tourists.
5 Kolkali Performance
Only men can participate in Kolkali. Women are strictly prohibited from taking
part in this folk dance. All the inhabitants of the islands maintain this traditional
rule. The patterns and the circular movements of the dance are captivating. The
dancers make pairs, and these pairs move in circles following the musical rhythm
produced by the sticks. The sticks are basically used as the props while they are
dancing and they are held by the hands of the dancers. Many of the body
postures, choreography and footwork of the Kolkali characters are taken directly
from Kalarippayattu.
Kolkali dance starts at a slow pace. Gradually it gathers speed and moves towards
a faster pace as the music gains momentum, reflecting their passion, joy, and
ardor into it. Usually, they use folk songs to accompany this folk dance. Kolkali
is so important and popular among them that each island has a number of
performing groups for Kolkali. It is a famous folk dance in Kerala also.
6 PARICHAKALI
The term Parichakali is derived from the word ‘Paricha’.
It means ‘shield’ in the local native language. That is why
Parichakali dance is also known as Shield Dance.
• The dancers perform this traditional form of dance with
shields and swords which are made of softwood. Thus,
the technique of performing the art and the name of it,
both justify each other. This particular dance form has a
resemblance to the martial arts. And many believe that
it is a form of martial art. Hence, the swords and shields are used as props here.
• THESE props along with the dance Parichakali aim at enacting and honoring the
valor, courage, and bravery of the warriors. But they are so intensely practiced
and experienced that they never hurt anyone even by mistake. The common and
dominant themes of this traditional dance form usually revolve around the warriors,
freedom struggle, battles, wars, or Islamic legends. This is a male-dominated
art form the same as The Lava Dance and Kolkali.
7 PARICHAKALI PERFORMANCE

• The men enact battle among each other. For that, they face each other in
dual combat while performing Parichakali folk dance. Mostly, the courage
and valor of the warriors or heroes are depicted through this dance form.
The dance starts at a slow pace but the performance eventually transforms
into a highly energetic, strong, and powerful dance. Folk songs are used
during the performance of the Parichakali dance. The men enact battle
among each other. For that, they face each other in dual combat while
performing Parichakali folk dance. Mostly, the courage and valor of the
warriors or heroes are depicted through this dance form. The dance starts at
a slow pace but the performance eventually transforms into a highly
energetic, strong, and powerful dance. Folk songs are used during the
performance of the Parichakali dance.
8 LAVA DANCE
The Lava Dance is a traditional dance form from
the beautiful islands of Lakshadweep, a group of
coral islands located in the Arabian Sea. The Lava
Dance holds significant cultural importance in the
lives of the local communities and is often performed
during Festive occasions and celebrations. With its
rhythmic movements and captivating music, the Lava Dance
showcases the unique traditions and customs of the people of Lakshadweep.
This dance form combines graceful footwork, expressive hand gestures, and
mesmerizing body movements, creating a visual spectacle that delights both
locals and visitors.
9 Graceful Movements and Cultural Significance
• This dance form is predominantly performed by men and is characterized by its
graceful and fluid movements, reflecting the serene beauty of the islands.
• The Lava Dance is often performed during festivals, weddings, and other significant
celebrations, serving as a form of entertainment and a means of cultural expression.
• The dance is accompanied by traditional music and songs, typically sung in the local
language of Malayalam or the indigenous dialects of Lakshadweep.
• The dancers wear vibrant and colorful traditional costumes adorned with ornate
jewelry, reflecting the cultural aesthetics of the region.
• The dance form is not just a form of artistic expression but also serves as a medium
to pass on the island's folklore, stories, and legends from one generation to another.
• The Lava Dance has gained recognition beyond Lakshadweep and has become a
symbol of the region's cultural identity, attracting tourists and enthusiasts from
around the world.
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LAVA DANCE PERFORMANCE
• This dance form is mostly performed by the male dancers like Kolkali, another form of
folk dance of Lakshadweep. Lava dance is accompanied by folk songs.
• The men line up in pairs or a single line. Then they form a circle altogether. This is how
they create a specific pattern for the dance. Then they start to make movements
maintaining the spirit of the song.
• The Lava Dance is typically performed in a group, with the dancers forming a
synchronized ensemble that showcases the beauty and harmony of the dance form.
• The performance usually takes place on a stage or open area, accompanied by live music,
which often includes traditional percussion instruments like the Chenda or the Maddalam.
• As the performance progresses, the dancers exhibit a series of graceful and fluid
movements, incorporating intricate footwork, hand gestures, and facial expressions that
depict various emotions, narratives, or elements of nature.