Fugdi is an Indian folk dance originating from the “Konkan” region which is the costal region of the states of Goa and Maharashtra. This essentially “women oriented” dance form was developed in the state of Goa, and is usually performed during Hindu festivals such as Ganesh Chaturthi and Vrata. According to certain historical facts, this dance style is said to have been created from few ancient Goan traditions. In addition, this dance is mainly performed during the Hindu month of “Bhaadrapaada”, when women usually take a break to escape boredom arising from their daily routines. Furthermore, it is also performed during religious and social events.
a. History/origin of Fugdi:
The only real historical information regarding this female oriented dance form is that, it was created so as to help women break away from the monotony of their daily routines.
b. Costumes used in the Fugdi:
The costume used in this dance form which is basically performed by women is the “saree”. In addition, gajra (i.e. bunch of flowers) tied around the hair also comprises of a major part of the costume.
c. Music involved in the Fugdi:
There are no live musical instruments as such involved during the performance of Fugdi. Infact, as the women increase the tempo and pace of the dance from a slow beginning to faster pace, they make a rhythmic “foo’ like sound by blowing air through their mouth hence the name Foogdi or Fugdi.
d. Training availability and the dance technique involved in the Fugdi:
This dance form involves women arranging themselves either in a circle or row formation depending on the region they belong to. So if the dancers belong to a village then they will use a circle formation, and if they belong to a forest area then the row formation would be used. Furthermore, this dance form usually begins by invoking the presence of God or Goddess.
As mentioned above, the tempo of this dance begins on a slow note and gradually picks of pace as it reaches its climax. It is during the performance when the dancers are high in rhythm that they blow air through the mouth which results in a “Foo” like sound being produced, which is why this dance form was eventually name “Fugdi”. In terms of training centres/schools, there none available throughout the country since this style of dancing is basically a folk dance which has been passed on from one generation to another in the Konkan region.