Experience the vibrant cultural heritage of Bihar through authentic folk performances featuring Bidesia, Jat-Jatin, Jhijhiya, and more traditional dance forms
Bihar's folk dance traditions represent centuries of cultural evolution, deeply rooted in the agricultural lifestyle, religious festivals, and social celebrations of the region. These dance forms are not merely performances but living expressions of Bihar's rich heritage, reflecting the joys, sorrows, and spiritual beliefs of its people.
The folk dances of Bihar are characterized by their simplicity, grace, and deep connection to nature and seasonal cycles. Most performances are accompanied by traditional instruments like dhol, manjeera, harmonium, and tabla, creating rhythmic patterns that have been passed down through generations. These dances often revolve around themes of love, harvest, religious devotion, and social commentary.
What makes Bihar's folk dances unique is their inclusive nature - they involve entire communities, with men and women participating in different forms. The costumes are vibrant and region-specific, often featuring handwoven fabrics, traditional jewelry, and colorful accessories that enhance the visual appeal of the performances.
During major festivals like Chhath Puja, Holi, Durga Puja, and Kali Puja, these folk dances become integral parts of the celebrations, creating an atmosphere of joy and cultural unity. The dance forms have also adapted to contemporary themes while maintaining their traditional essence, making them relevant for modern audiences seeking authentic cultural experiences.
Dance Name | Region | Key Features | Traditional Costume | Main Instruments |
---|---|---|---|---|
Bidesia | All Bihar | Social commentary, humor, male performers in female roles | Colorful sarees, heavy makeup, jewelry | Dhol, tabla, harmonium |
Jat-Jatin | Central Bihar | Love story dance, dialogue-based performance | Traditional dhoti-kurta, saree with dupatta | Dhol, manjira, flute |
Jhijhiya | North Bihar | Women-only dance, earthen pots with holes, lamp inside | Red and yellow sarees, silver jewelry | Folk songs, clapping, manjira |
Jhumar | South Bihar | Harvest celebration, circular formation | Bright colored clothes, head scarves | Dhol, nagara, shehnai |
Sohar | All Bihar | Birth celebration songs and dance | Traditional wear with flowers | Voice, clapping, traditional drums |
Kajri | All Bihar | Monsoon dance, agricultural themes | Green sarees, floral decorations | Dhol, tabla, manjira |
Chhau | South Bihar | Martial dance with masks, mythological stories | Colorful masks, warrior costumes | Dhol, nagara, shehnai |
Paika | Magadh region | Warrior dance, sword and shield performances | Traditional warrior attire | Dhol, nagara, trumpet |
Phagua/Hori | All Bihar | Holi festival dance, colorful and joyous | White clothes, colored scarves | Dhol, manjira, singing |
Jhumri | East Bihar | Women's group dance, graceful movements | Traditional sarees, silver jewelry | Folk songs, clapping |
Natua | West Bihar | Professional entertainers, acrobatic elements | Bright costumes, decorative elements | Dhol, manjira, singing |
Kathghorwa | Mithila region | Storytelling through dance, wooden horse props | Traditional Maithili attire | Dhol, manjira, narration |
Launda Naach | All Bihar | Male performers in female roles, comic elements | Elaborate female costumes, makeup | Dhol, tabla, harmonium |
Gawana Geet | All Bihar | Wedding ceremonial dance and songs | Wedding attire, gold jewelry | Traditional songs, clapping |
Nirgun/Birha | All Bihar | Devotional dance, spiritual themes | Simple white or saffron clothes | Manjira, tabla, singing |
Legendary creator of Bidesia dance form, known as the Shakespeare of Bhojpuri. His contributions to Bihar's folk theater and dance are unparalleled, with works that blend social commentary with entertainment.
Renowned folk singer whose voice has brought Bihar's folk traditions to national prominence. Her renditions of Chhath songs and folk melodies have become synonymous with Bihar's cultural identity.
Master of Jat-Jatin dance form, known for his authentic performances and dedication to preserving traditional techniques. His troupe has performed across India, showcasing Bihar's rich folk heritage.
Contemporary folk artist who has modernized traditional Bihar folk music while maintaining its authenticity. Her performances bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary audiences.
Popular Bhojpuri actor and singer who has promoted Bihar folk culture through films and music. His contributions have brought mainstream attention to traditional folk forms.
Expert in Jhijhiya dance form, known for her graceful performances and authentic representation of women-centric folk traditions. She has trained numerous students in this traditional art.
Master percussionist specializing in traditional Bihar folk instruments. His rhythmic expertise has accompanied countless folk performances, preserving the musical heritage of the region.
Skilled performer of Sohar and Kajri dance forms, known for her authentic voice and traditional presentation. Her performances during festivals have become community celebrations.
Renowned Chhau dance performer from South Bihar, known for his dynamic masked performances and storytelling through dance. His martial arts background enhances his traditional dance presentations.
Expert in Paika dance traditions, one of the few female practitioners of this traditionally male-dominated form. Her performances have broken gender barriers in folk dance.
Master of Launda Naach, known for his comic timing and authentic portrayal of female characters. His performances are highlights of village festivals and cultural events.
Contemporary folk dancer who has performed internationally, showcasing Bihar's cultural heritage on global platforms. Her fusion of traditional and modern elements attracts diverse audiences.
Popular performer known for energetic Jhumar and Phagua dance presentations. His vibrant performances during Holi celebrations have gained widespread recognition.
Expert in Gawana Geet and wedding folk traditions, her melodious voice and graceful movements make wedding ceremonies memorable. She has preserved many traditional wedding songs.
Devotional folk performer specializing in Nirgun and Birha traditions. His spiritual performances during religious festivals create profound emotional connections with audiences.
Young artist dedicated to preserving Kathghorwa and Mithila folk traditions. Her research and performances have documented many endangered folk dance forms.
*Prices vary based on event duration, location, and specific requirements
Our artists are native Bihar performers who have learned these dance forms from their families and communities. They bring genuine cultural knowledge and authentic presentation that cannot be replicated by non-native performers.
Each artist in our network has years of professional performance experience, having entertained audiences across India and internationally. They understand how to adapt traditional forms for different venues and audience types.
Beyond just dance performances, our artists provide cultural context, traditional music, authentic costumes, and educational elements that create immersive cultural experiences for your guests.
With our established network and professional management, you can trust us for punctual, well-coordinated performances that meet and exceed your expectations every time.
Performance duration varies from 15 minutes for a single dance form to 2-3 hours for a complete cultural program. Most corporate events prefer 30-45 minute performances, while wedding celebrations often extend to 1-2 hours with multiple dance forms.
Solo performances require 1-2 artists, small group presentations need 3-5 performers, while large cultural programs involve 8-15 artists. The number depends on the specific dance forms requested and the scale of your event.
Yes, all authentic costumes, traditional instruments, and performance equipment are included in our booking packages. Our artists come fully prepared with complete traditional attire specific to each dance form.
Absolutely! Our artists specialize in festival-specific performances. For Chhath Puja, we focus on devotional forms like Nirgun and Sohar, while Holi celebrations feature energetic Phagua and Jhumar dances.
A minimum 15x15 feet performance area is required for small groups, while larger troupes need 20x20 feet. We need basic sound system support and adequate lighting. Detailed technical requirements are shared during booking confirmation.
Yes, our artists travel nationwide for performances. Additional travel and accommodation charges apply for outstation bookings. We have successfully performed in major cities across India including Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Kolkata.
Yes, we offer interactive workshops where participants can learn basic steps of Bihar folk dances. These are popular with schools, colleges, and corporate team-building events, providing both entertainment and cultural education.
We recommend booking at least 2-3 weeks in advance to ensure artist availability and proper preparation. For large events or specific festival dates, earlier booking (4-6 weeks) is advisable due to high demand.
Yes, our experienced artists are available for international events, cultural festivals, and diaspora celebrations. We handle all documentation and coordination required for international travel and performances.
While we focus on providing exceptional dance performances, we can coordinate with professional photographers and videographers for documentation. We can recommend trusted partners who specialize in cultural event coverage.
Explore folk dance traditions from neighboring states that share cultural similarities with Bihar:
Phone: +91-9355056666
Email: info@anantagroup.com
Delhi Office:
Plot No.2, 1st Floor, Street No.7, A Block, West Sant Nagar, Burari, Landmark – Rani Public School, Delhi – 110084
📞 +91-9355056666
Bangalore Office:
102/7, Silver County Rd, Kudlu, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560068
📞 +91-9611904473
📧 info@artistmanagementcompanies.in
Patna Office:
Flat No. 1, 2nd Floor, Patna