Kalbelia is one of the most sensuous dance forms of Rajasthan, performed by a tribe of the same name.
Contents |
| Total population |
|---|
| Unknown |
| Regions with significant populations |
| Rajasthan, India |
| Languages |
| Religion |
| Footnotes |
| Alternative names include Sapera, Jogi |
The Kalbelias were known for their frequent movement from one place to another in ancient times. Their main occupation is catching snakes and trading snake venom. Hence, the dance movements and the costumes of their community bear a resemblance to that of the serpents. They are also known as Sapera, Jogira or Jogi. They follow Hindu religion. They trace their ancestry from Kanlipar, the 12th disciple of Guru Gorakhnath. The largest number of the population of Kalbelias is in Pali district, then Ajmer, Chittorgarh and Udaipur district. They live a nomadic life.[1][2]
The Kalbelia dance, performed to celebrate any joyful moment in the community, is an integral part of their culture.
Male participants take care of the musical part of the dance. They use the different instruments (Pungi, Dufli, "Been", "Khanjari", "Morchang", "khuralio" and "Dholak") to create the rhythm on which the dancers perform. As the performance goes on, the rhythm becomes faster and faster, and hence, the dance. It looks like they are made of rubber. Their perfect movements to the enchanting tune of musical instruments is a treat to the eyes.
The Kalbelia dancers (mainly females) wear long black skirts embroidered with silver ribbons. As they spin in a circle, their bodies sway acrobatically, sinuously to the accompaniment of the Pungi, the Dufli and the plaintive notes of the "been", the wooden instrument of the snake charmers. As the beat increases to such high pitch, free flowing voice, while others join in the dance. Their dance movement resembles that of the snakes.