Jhumar Dance from Haryana

Jhumar dance is a very energetic, lively dance form. It is a dance that oozes ecstasy and sheer joy. The word Jhumar itself is derived from ‘Jhoom,’ which means to swing in celebration. It is performed on all festivals, big and small alike. In particular, it is performed at weddings, fun fairs and during the harvest season. The men of the Balochi tribe consider this dance a demonstration of their happiness. Men of all generations - grandfathers, fathers, sons- unite for this performance. Some variations of this dance include Beas Jhumar, Chenab Jhumar and Satluj Jhumar.

The costume includes a turban, torla, jugi, kurta and chadar.

The instruments used are the kartal, bansuri, dhol, sangi amongst others.

When the women perform alongside the men the dance is called ‘Janani (meaning: wife) Jhumar’.