Dhalo
AI-drafted · awaiting admin review
A women’s folk dance of Goa performed on moonlit nights in the month of Paush, with two rows of dancers singing Konkani songs to the village deities.
FolkWhere: GoaOccasion: Moonlit nights in the month of Paush (December–January), on the village mand (sacred open ground)
| Performed by | Women of the village, in two rows facing each other |
|---|---|
| Costume | Everyday or festive sarees with flowers in the hair |
| Music and instruments | No instruments; the dance is carried by the women’s singing |
How it is performed
- The women gather at the mand after the day’s work and first offer prayers to the village deity.
- They form two rows facing each other, with arms linked over the shoulders.
- One row sings a verse while moving forward and back with slow, swaying steps; the other row answers.
- Songs pray for the welfare of the village and also tell stories, tease and joke.
- On the last night the celebration ends with special rituals and sometimes small skits.
Significance
Dhalo is a time when village women pray together for the health of their families, cattle and fields, and pass on old Konkani songs.