Shondol
AI-drafted · awaiting admin review
A graceful dance once performed for the kings of Ladakh, often called the royal dance of Ladakh.
FolkWhere: LadakhOccasion: Festivals, Losar, cultural events and the Ladakh Festival
| Performed by | Mainly women, in groups |
|---|---|
| Costume | Traditional goncha robes, shawls and the perak headdress decorated with turquoise |
| Music and instruments | Daman (drum) and surna (shehnai-like pipe) |
How it is performed
- The dancers stand in a line or a half-circle.
- They move slowly with small steps, raising and turning their hands in graceful patterns.
- The movements follow the rhythm of the daman and surna.
Significance
According to tradition, Shondol was performed for the Namgyal kings on special occasions. It is now a symbol of Ladakhi culture at festivals.