Pandav nritya
AI-drafted · awaiting admin review
A ritual dance-drama of Garhwal that retells the Mahabharata, in which performers are believed to be possessed by the Pandavas.
RitualWhere: Garhwal (especially Chamoli and Rudraprayag), UttarakhandOccasion: Village festivals held in winter after the harvest, often over many days
| Performed by | Men of the village chosen for each role, with drummers (dhol and damau players) |
|---|---|
| Costume | Simple traditional clothes, with weapons such as bows, arrows and maces for each Pandava |
| Music and instruments | Dhol and damau, with singers who recite the story |
How it is performed
- The village gathers in an open courtyard near the temple, and the drummers play the special beats of each Pandava.
- As each beat is played, the person chosen for that role begins to dance, believed to be possessed by the hero.
- Episodes from the Mahabharata are acted out over several days, such as the Pandavas’ exile and battles.
- The festival ends with special rituals and a feast for the whole village.
Significance
Pandav nritya reflects the strong local belief that the Pandavas travelled through Garhwal on their last journey to the Himalaya, and it is held to bring prosperity to the village.