Lezim
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A vigorous group dance performed with the lezim, a wooden handle strung with jingling metal discs, seen in Ganesh processions and school drills.
FolkWhere: MaharashtraOccasion: Ganeshotsav processions, Shiv Jayanti, festivals and school events
| Performed by | Groups of men, women or students, often in large numbers |
|---|---|
| Costume | White kurta and pyjama or dhoti with a saffron pheta (turban); women in nauvari sarees |
| Music and instruments | Dhol, tasha and halgi drums |
How it is performed
- Each dancer holds a lezim: a wooden handle with an iron chain or bar carrying small metal discs.
- The group stands in rows and moves together to a set count from the drummer.
- Dancers bend, step forward and back, and turn while striking the lezim to make a ringing sound on each beat.
- Formations change from rows to circles as the procession moves along the street.
Significance
Lezim is part dance and part physical drill, and is taught in many Maharashtra schools. Its sound and energy are part of the Ganeshotsav procession.