Folk Music and Dance
Rhythms connecting People
Tunes and Steps of the Soil
The rich tapestry of traditional folk music and dance in Nashik’s tribal communities is a vibrant expression of their daily lives and spiritual beliefs. In Surgana, villages like Shribhuvan Chinchpada and Shribhuban Barda, these art forms are not merely performances but acts of devotion and community.
Thakar Nritya is a lively dance performed to the powerful beat of Dhol and Dabba drums, celebrating the arrival of the monsoon rains and the start of the sowing season. Thali Badya Geet offers a meditative sound created from a simple metal plate and a stick, carrying the “soul of the forest” in its subtle melody.
In contrast, Dangi Nritya is a dazzling spectacle of synchronized footwork and vibrant costumes, unique to the communities of Shribhuvan Barda. The haunting melodies of Dera Geet, a rare and soulful tradition, are sung by women during rituals, with the music beginning with a deep, resonant sound from a water-filled earthen pot. These traditions also include the sacred Dongri Dev Nritya, a spiritual dance performed to honor Dongar Mahuli, the protector of the hills. The dramatic Bagh Pawri Nritya brings to life the age-old bond between forest dwellers and the wild, with dancers mimicking tigers and lions. The graceful Pawri Nritya is performed to the earthy sounds of a wind instrument made from dried bottle gourd and wild bull horns. Nandi Nritya reflects the tribals’ embodying the cow and tell mythical tales while dancing.
These living traditions, including the synchronized Madal Nritya, are all integral to local festivals and gatherings, weaving a soundscape of tradition and pride that is both ancient and alive.
The Rhythmic Soul of Nashik's Cultural Heritage
The Artists
The Cultural Custodians keeping the Performing Arts Alive and Breathing
Mukunda Kashinath Padavi
Mukunda Kashinath Padavi is a 34-year-old Bagh Pawri performer from Dolhare who has been practicing this art for nearly two decades. He typically plays the role of the “Bagh” (a tiger) in the performance.
Bhaurav Jivala Bangal
Bhaurav Jivala Bangal is a skilled dancer from Chinchpada with over 40 years of experience in Thakar Nritya, Madal Nritya, and Dongri Dev Nritya. He performs with his group at various events across Maharashtra and has received numerous accolades for his dedication to these art forms.
Ganpat Motiram Gavit
Ganpat Motiram Gavit is a versatile percussionist from Barda. He learned to play the
Pawri and Sehnai from his father at a young age. Excelling in various percussion instruments like the Dhol, Dholki, and Dabba, he is considered the soul of his dance group and has now begun teaching his skills to the younger generation.
Villages Practicing Folk Songs & Dance
Experience These Living Traditions
Join local communities during festivals and celebrations to witness these art forms in their authentic settings. Many villages welcome visitors to learn and participate in their cultural traditions.