Muharram Dance

The Siya Muslims celebrate Muharram by dancing a traditional folk dance in Bengal

Jari Dance, Source : Google

The Jari dance is a traditional dance form of the indigenous community of West Bengal and other states in eastern India. It is primarily practiced by the Shiya Muslim community during the Muharram. This is not only a traditional dance but also a religious and social folk dance.

Jari Dance, Source : Google

The Jari or Zari dance is characterized by graceful and rhythmic movements of the upper body and arms, while the feet move in a simple and repetitive manner. The dance is accompanied by the singing of traditional songs and the playing of musical instruments, which creates a festive and celebratory atmosphere. The dancers dance in groups to a melancholic beat. Eight to ten men form a group and each group has a leader. The leader is called ‘Ostad’ and the others are called ‘Dohar’. The dancers wear daily wear and tie red handkerchiefs on their hands and foreheads. They often wear ghungroo as well, on their anklets. Musical instruments like the flute and madol are accompanied by the dance. The dancers clap and thus maintain their rhythms while dancing. They show their grief while dancing by making various faces and postures. The dance begins from the moment moon is seen during Muharram. The dancers go from home to home, while dancing and collecting various food items.The Jari dance is an important part of the cultural heritage of the Muslims in Bengal and is considered a way to express themselves during their festive season. It is only practiced in rural areas and is rarely practiced in the cities.