Dhunuchi Nritya

Dhunuchi Nritya
ধুনুচি নৃত্য

Genre	Folk dance
Instrument(s)	Dhak
Origin	West Bengal, India

Dhunuchi Nritya or Dhunuchi Naach is a traditional Bengali dance. This devotional dance is performed in Hindu puja and aarti ceremonies.

The dance is seen performed during Durga Puja by devotees, mainly Bengali Hindus. This dance celebrates Goddess Durga's victory over Mahishasura, which incorporates themes of victory and empowerment.

Dance

Dhunuchi Nritya is deeply associated with Durga Puja, which is traditionally performed by men. Women are now increasingly taking an active part in traditionally masculine dances. The dance is usually performed during the last days of Durga Puja, especially between Ashtami and Dashami.

Costumes

Both men and women usually wear traditional Bengali clothes while performing the Dhunuchi Nritya. The traditional dance-related dress for women is the garad sari, which Bengali Hindu women wear during puja or sacred religious ceremonies. Dhoti and Kurta-panjabi for men; Dhoti can be white or colored but Kurta-panjabi is of different colors.

Music and instruments

Dhunuchi dance is mainly presented through musical instruments, song is not required. The main instrument is the Dhak, a traditional Bengali instrument. Also used are Kansor and Ghanta. Both instruments produce loud and heavy sounds. Dancers perform dances to the rhythm created by these loud sounds. It is also seen to carry Gamchas irrespective of men and women.