DANCE

Nagaland boasts a vibrant tradition of folk dances, each reflecting the unique cultural heritage and traditions of its people. Broadly, their dances can be categorised into war dances, festival dances celebrating good health, good harvest, and prosperity; dances honouring bravery and heroic deeds; and those mimicking movements of birds and animals signifying strength, grace, resilience, etc. All the dances involve rhythmic movements, often accompanied with musical instruments. The performers adorn themselves in traditional attire, including headgear, jewellery, and vibrant costumes.

The warrior dance is common to many Naga people, each tribe having their own unique presentations. It is typically a vigorous dance performed by men with weapons, especially spears, machetes, and shields. The warrior dancers represent strong men who are believed to have magical powers in using their weapons.

Festival dances vary as per the various festivals performed by the different communities. Ritualistic dances are performed by the Aos during two significant festivals, the Tsüngremong and Moatsu, which mark the pre-harvest and post-harvest seasons. These dances are of thanksgiving, expressing gratitude for a bountiful harvest and seeking blessings for the future. Melo Phita is a significant dance performed by the Angamis during Sekrenyi, a festival of purification and renewal where dancers perform to express joy and unity. Aaluyattu is one of the most prominent Konyak dances performed in their festivals to thank the deities for blessings of a good harvest. The Kukis have several dances commemorating their strength and their bond with nature. They celebrate their harvest festival, Mimkut, with traditional dances. Thuni festival dances of the Chakhesangs celebrate new harvests. Among those dances imitating wildlife, there are the ones emulating cockfights, graceful flight of birds, and movements of elephants.

The vibrancy of the Naga communities is reflected in their love for their energetic and colourful folk dances.