Fugdi
AI-drafted · awaiting admin review
A lively women’s folk dance of Goa and the Konkan, danced in circles or rows to songs and rhythmic blowing sounds, often during religious festivals.
FolkWhere: GoaOccasion: Ganesh Chaturthi, the month of Bhadrapad and other Hindu festivals; also at community gatherings
| Performed by | Women and girls in groups |
|---|---|
| Costume | Nine-yard or regular sarees in the Goan style, with flowers in the hair and traditional jewellery |
| Music and instruments | Usually no instruments: the women sing Konkani songs and make a ‘foo’ sound by blowing out air, which gives the dance its name; sometimes a ghumat (clay drum) is played |
How it is performed
- The women gather in a circle or two facing rows.
- A lead singer starts a song and the group answers, clapping in time.
- Dancers pair up, cross hands and whirl around faster and faster.
- Other figures follow, such as squatting and hopping in a circle, while the singing and blowing sounds keep the beat.
Significance
Fugdi is one of the oldest forms of women’s folk dance in Goa. It lets women come together, sing about everyday life and the gods, and keep Konkani songs alive.