Launda Naach
AI-drafted · awaiting admin review
A Bhojpuri folk dance in which male performers dress as women and dance and sing at weddings and village festivities.
FolkWhere: Bihar (Saran, Bhojpur and nearby districts) and eastern Uttar PradeshOccasion: Weddings, festivals and village fairs
| Performed by | Male dancers in women’s dress, with a troupe of musicians |
|---|---|
| Costume | Bright sarees or ghagra-choli, jewellery and make-up worn by the male dancers |
| Music and instruments | Bhojpuri folk songs with harmonium, dholak, nagara and jhal |
How it is performed
- The troupe sets up on an open stage or ground, usually at night.
- Male dancers dressed as women perform graceful and lively dances to Bhojpuri songs.
- Songs and short comic scenes are mixed into the show, often linked with Bidesia plays.
- The performance continues for hours with the audience joining in the fun.
Significance
Launda Naach has been part of Bhojpuri entertainment for generations and is closely tied to the Bidesia tradition. Its senior artist Ramchandra Manjhi was honoured with the Padma Shri.