Kud
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A ritual night dance of the hills of the Jammu region, performed to thank and honour the local folk deities (Lok devtas).
RitualWhere: Jammu region (hill districts such as Udhampur, Reasi, Ramban and Doda)Occasion: Nights of worship for village deities, especially in the rainy season and after harvest
| Performed by | Men and women of the village together |
|---|---|
| Costume | Everyday festive village dress |
| Music and instruments | Narsingha (a curved horn), flute, chhaina (cymbals) and drums |
How it is performed
- Villagers gather at night near the shrine of the Lok devta, often around a fire.
- The musicians start the rhythm and the dancers move in a circle with swaying steps.
- The rhythm changes through the night and the dancers change their steps to match it.
- The dance carries on until late at night, ending with prayers for the well-being of the family, crops and cattle.
Significance
Kud is offered to the village deities in thanks and for protection, and is one of the main ritual dances of the Dogra hill people.