Dances
form a vital element in the zest and joy of living of the tribals. They dance
on important rituals, during festivals and also for recreation occassionally.
They vary from highly stylised religious dance dramas of the Buddhists to the
martial steps and colourful performances of the Noctes and Wanchos.
The dances of the prople of Arunachal are group dances - where both men and
women take part. There are, however, some dances such as Igu dance of the Mishmi
priests, war dances of the Adis, Noctes and Wanchos, ritualistic dance of the
Buddhist tribes, which are male dances. Females are not allowed to dance in
these dances.
Some of the popular folk dances of the people are Aji Lamu (Monpa Tribe), Roppi
(Nishing Tribe), Hiirii Khaniing (Apatani Tribe), Popir (Adi Tribe), Pasi Kongki
(Adi), Chalo (Nocte Tribe), Ponung (Adi Tribe), Rekham Pada(Nishing Tribe),
Lion and Peacock dance (Monpa) and so on. Most of the dances are accompanied
by songs sung generally in chorus.
The Monpas, besides performing Monastic dances for three days during Torgya
festivals, also perform other dances on different occasions. Some of them are-
Aji Lhamu dance, yak dance and lion & peacock dances etc.
Among the Adis dance had evolved almost into an art form mainly for entertainment
and recreation. The 'Phoning' dance of Adis is performed by teams of young girls
in perfect rhythmic unison. Similar group dance in colourful costumes are performed
by Nishis and Tagins of Upper and Lower Subansiri Districts.
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