Nagpuri: This the most popular dance style of Jharkhand derived from primitive folk dances. In this, people join their hands together and perform in perfect coordination of hands and legs which starts slowly and then becomes very fast. This is done on auspicious occasions and weddings.
Saraikela Chhau: Originated in Jharkhand, Chhau is a male dominated dance form which is mostly performed with a mask. The dance ranges from celebrating martial arts and acrobatics to religious themes performed on the occasion of Durga Puja, Rath Yatra etc. It is also integrated in the cultures of Odisha and West Bengal.
Kadsa: Performed carrying a 'Kalasha' (earthen pot), Kadsa is a female dominated dance for seasonal festivals or welcoming guests. This dance form expresses that music and dance is a way of life in Jharkhand.
Paika: Performed by Munda community of Chota Nagpur, this dance form symbolises the great war of their community against the British. A group of three, five, seven, nine or eleven male dancers perform in colourful robes holding swords and shields displaying the battle art.
Manbhum Chhau: It is also a martial arts based dance form where artists wear heavy colourful masks and costumes for portraying different characters. The animated, fast movements of the artists and beats of drum create war like ambience depicting mythological stories.
Santhali: It is a popular folk dance practiced by largest tribe of Jharkhand, Santhals. In this, a circular or semicircular formation is made by the dancers interlocking their hands together, accompanied by musicians in the centre playing instruments like Mandar & Nagada. The dancers use natural decors such as leaves and flowers for decorating their costumes.
