Question

Which folk dance represents a mock fight between the goddess Durgā and the demon-king Mahiśāsura?

• A. Dollu Kunitha
• B. Dāndiyā
• C. Rauf
• D. Kālbeliā

Hint:

Associate major folk dances with their state of origin and the cultural context or festival they are linked to. Dāndiyā and Garba are inextricably linked with Navaratri in Gujarat, a festival celebrating the victory of Goddess Durga.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the folk dance that symbolically re-enacts the battle between the goddess Durga and the demon Mahishasura. This theme is central to the festival of Navaratri.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's examine the options:
1. Dollu Kunitha: This is a vigorous drum dance from Karnataka, performed by men of the Kuruba community primarily to honor their deity, Beereshwara.
2. Dāndiyā Raas: This is a popular folk dance from Gujarat, especially performed during the festival of Navaratri. The dancers use a pair of decorated sticks called \textit{dandiyas}. The dance symbolizes the epic battle between Durga and Mahishasura, with the dandiyas representing the goddess's swords. The clashing of the sticks represents the fierce combat.
3. Rauf: This is a traditional and graceful folk dance performed by women in the Kashmir Valley, typically during festivals and celebrations.
4. Kālbeliā: This is a sensuous and energetic dance from Rajasthan performed by the women of the Kalbelia (snake charmer) community. Its movements mimic those of a serpent.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Dāndiyā Raas is the folk dance that represents a mock fight between Durga and Mahishasura. Therefore, option (2) is correct.