Popir
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The dance of Galo women at the Mopin spring festival, performed in white attire to songs that welcome prosperity and good health.
TribalWhere: Arunachal Pradesh (Galo community, West Siang and nearby districts)Occasion: Mopin festival (April), before sowing
| Performed by | Galo girls and young women |
|---|---|
| Costume | White woven skirts and blouses, cane hats or headbands, and beaded necklaces |
| Music and instruments | Group songs sung by the dancers, sometimes with a gong |
How it is performed
- Dancers stand in a line or semi-circle in their white Mopin dress.
- They sing together while stepping sideways in small, even steps.
- Hands and arms move gently in unison, and the line sways forward and back.
- The dance is performed in the festival ground after the Mopin rituals.
Significance
Mopin honours the goddess of wealth and fertility and is meant to drive away evil and bring a good harvest. Popir is the best-known dance of the festival.