Dhunuchi naach
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A devotional dance performed during Durga Puja, holding clay censers (dhunuchi) full of burning coconut husk and incense before the goddess.
DevotionalWhere: West BengalOccasion: Durga Puja, especially during the evening arati and on Navami
| Performed by | Men and women, of any age |
|---|---|
| Costume | Festive clothes: dhoti and panjabi for men, sarees for women |
| Music and instruments | Dhak (large barrel drums) and kansor (bell-metal gong) |
How it is performed
- The dhunuchi is filled with coconut husk, camphor and dhuno (resin incense) and lit.
- Dancers hold the smoking censer in one hand, or two, and move to the beat of the dhak in front of the idol.
- Skilled dancers balance the dhunuchi on the head or hold it in the mouth while turning.
- The dance grows faster as the drumming speeds up, filling the pandal with fragrant smoke.
Significance
The dance is an offering of joy and devotion to Durga. It is one of the best-loved sights of Durga Puja, which UNESCO inscribed as Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2021.