Dance in Nagaland

The Nagaland dance represents the vibrant and dynamic cultural traditions of the north eastern state of India. Accompanied with indigenous musical instruments and melodious folk songs, the Naga men perform the group dance with great enthusiasm.

Most of the traditional dances of the aboriginal tribes of Nagaland prefer male performers who dance in closed circle. Dressed in traditional and attractive clothes, the dancers perform with full dedication which is reflected in their flawless performance. The Zeliang dance of Nagaland portrays the unique dancing qualities and artistic skills of the performers.

Almost all the tribal communities of Nagaland have their unique dancing styles. The dances derive their name from the different movements of hands and feet of the performers. One such unique dance is the Cock dance of the Nruirolians which has derived its name because the hand movements bear resemblance to the movements of a cock.

The Fly dance of Nagaland requires the performers to move like the Temangnetin insect, while in the Cricket dance the dancers move their hands and feet in all directions. The valiant men of Nagaland perform the Bear dance which is commonly referred to as Hetateulee after they have successfully defeated their foes.

An integral part of social and cultural lifestyle of the native population of Nagaland, the unique dancing styles of the state are performed with proper props of dao, shield or spear. Any religious or social gathering among the local indigenous tribal groups is incomplete without the performance of their traditional folk dances.