Question

The Bhangra and Bihu are ________ from Punjab and Assam respectively.
a. Harvest dances
b. Classical dances
c. Modern dances
d. None of these

Answer 1

Hint:
Dance is an art form composed of intentionally chosen human movement sequences. This Movement has an aesthetic and symbolic meaning, and it is known as the dance within a specific community by performers and observers.

Complete solution:
Bhangra Dance –
- Bhangra is a typical Indian dance from Sialkot, the Majha district of Punjab, and is mostly associated with the Baisakhi Spring Harvest festival. Bhangra is also a popular dance.
- During the harvest season, Bhangra was mainly made by Punjabi farmers.
- It was done primarily during agricultural activities by farmers.
- They would make bhangra movements on the spot as they did each farming operation.
- They were thus pleased to finish their work.
- The farmers perform Bhangra for many years to demonstrate a sense of achievement and to welcome the new grazing season. After harvesting their wheat crops during the Vaisakhi season, people participated in cultural festivals while dancing the bhangra.

Bihu Dance –
- Bihu dance is an ancient folkloric dance from the Indian Assam province, connected to the Bihu Festival.
- Bihu dancers are typically young men and women, performed in a group, and dancing is distinguished by quick steps and movement of hands.
- The traditional dancers' costume is colourful and based around the theme of red colour, which reflects cheer and power.
- In modern-day Assamese society, Bihu dance continues to play an important role, becoming an emblem of Assamese cultural identity.
- The first appearance of Bihu's dance in Guwahati was in 1962, as part of a cultural festival.

So, Bhangra is Punjab's folk dance and music. The dancing and singing songs in the sound of the dhol drum celebrate an excellent harvest. Bihu is an Assam Harvest Festival held three times a year. It is primarily a celebration of seasonal changes.

Hence, the correct answer is option A.

Note:
- The Bihu dance takes its name from the Bohag Bihu Festival of Assam that marks the new year of Assam or Assamese new year.
- Bhangra is associated with the Punjabi 'bagaa' dance, which represents Punjab's martial dance.