Dance in West Bengal

Different types of dances have always played an important part in the entertainment life of people. Earlier, like in other states of India, Dancing was not considered a respectable profession and was practiced only by devdasis (temple girls). However with time, dances were accepted as a respected part of society and was taken up as profession by girls form higher class families as well. The dances became an inseparable part of any joyous occasion that took place. The great Rabindranath Tagore did a huge service to society by making the dances an integral part of education system for youngsters. With this, number of institutes that rendered professional training in dances came up in many parts of the state. They teach various classical dances and famous folk dances of India with some also giving ballet lessons. In West Bengal, you will see that dances are more a part of tribal lifestyle. The most famous dance of West Bengal too is a tribal dance called Chhau Dance. Theater has become a strong medium in West Bengal and it is here that one can see dances and dramas on different themes based on society and and its problem.

CHHOU

RAVA DANCE

JATRA