DOGRI DANCE

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Context

Recently, the Union Government of India conferred Padma Shri award to Jammu’s Dogri folk dancer Romalo Ram.

Details

Dogri Folk Dance

• Performance Style:
  • Dogri folk dance is typically performed in the Duggar region of Jammu, showcasing the unique cultural identity of the Dogra community.
• Group Dynamics:
  • The dance is often a collective effort, with a group of artists participating.
  • The main leader not only sings but also dances, while others provide beats using instruments like Drums and Chimta.
• Occasions and Social Gatherings:
  • Dogri folk dance is a significant part of various functions, social gatherings, and celebrations.
  • It adds to the festive atmosphere, symbolizing joy and community spirit.
• Variety in Performance:
  • There are different variations of Dogri dance. Some involve both men and women, while others may be exclusively performed by women.
  • Colorful traditional dresses add vibrancy to the performances.

Dogri Language

• Geographical Distribution:
  • Dogri is primarily spoken in the Jammu region of Jammu and Kashmir, India.
  • It has smaller groups of speakers in adjoining regions of western Himachal Pradesh, northern Punjab, and north-eastern Pakistani Punjab.
• Official Recognition:
  • Dogri has been among India's 22 scheduled languages since 2003.
  • It is one of the five official languages of the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
• Script and Writing System:
  • Historically, Dogri was written in the old Dogra Akkhar script, a modified version of Takri.
  • Maharaja Ranbir Singh of Jammu and Kashmir introduced a modified version called "Name Dogra Akkhar," which, although used in official documents, didn't gain popularity among the general population.
  • Currently, Devanagari is the officially recognized script for Dogri in India.
• Cultural Significance:
  • Dogri has a rich literary tradition, including poetry, fiction, and dramatic works.
  • It plays a vital role in preserving the cultural and linguistic heritage of the Dogras.
• Recognition and Recent History:

• Literary Contributions:

• • Dogri has a history of translating significant works. For instance, a Dogri translation of the Sanskrit classic Lilavati was published in 1873.

• Poets and Literary Periodicals:

• • Notable poets, like Kavi Dattu, have contributed to Dogri literature.
  • Literary periodicals like Shiraza Dogri by the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages continue to promote modern Dogri literary works.

• Official Status:

• • Dogri received recognition as an "independent modern literary language" by the General Council of the Sahitya Academy, Delhi, in 1969.
  • It is one of the national languages of India since its recognition in the Indian constitution in 2003.

• Media Presence:

• • Dogri programming is featured on Radio Kashmir and Doordarshan, contributing to its visibility and promotion.

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Which of the following dance forms is characterized by dancers balancing a series of earthen pots on their heads? A) Kuchipudi B) Bhavai C) Mohiniyattam D) Potraj Answer: B