Dumhal
AI-drafted · awaiting admin review
A dance of the men of the Wattal community of Kashmir, who circle a ceremonial banner in long robes and tall conical caps.
FolkWhere: Kashmir valleyOccasion: Festivals and special occasions
| Performed by | Men of the Wattal community |
|---|---|
| Costume | Long colourful robes and tall conical caps decorated with beads and shells |
| Music and instruments | Drums, with the dancers singing in chorus |
How it is performed
- The troupe arrives in procession carrying a banner, which is planted in the ground.
- The men form a circle around the banner.
- They dance around it with rhythmic steps to the beat of the drum, singing as they move.
- The pace and drumming rise together towards the close of the dance.
Significance
Dumhal is performed only by the men of one community and is handed down within it, making it one of the distinctive living dance traditions of the Kashmir valley.