Lok Gatha – Snakes in Indian Folk Culture

Talk by IIa Arun

Glimpses of Rajasthani Kalbelia and Nag Mantri ka Jagran

An NCPA Presentation

This is the first presentation in our series of the folk dance platform – Lok Gatha. Based on the theme of snakes, the dance form Kalbelia, which is a part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, and the Nag Mantri ka Jagran will be showcased. The evening will be guided by eminent Rajasthani folk singer Ila Arun in association with an expert from Lokkala Academy, University of Mumbai. Proficient in folk traditions, Arun will be taking us through the different folk tales of India in which snakes play a pivotal role. Both the traditions, Kalbelia and Jagran, are performed in honour of Lord Shiva. This group of Kalbelia dancers is an integral part of Arun’s shows. Pungi is a special instrument of the Kalbelia community used to enchant snakes. The main performers of Kalbelia dance are female dancers who dance and swirl, replicating the movements of a serpent. Jagran is a celebration in which Shiva devotees observe an all-night vigil, sing hymns and songs and play music on instruments made of copper and brass. Tales on different avatars of Lord Shiva are enacted during the night.