Africa, South Africa

INDLAMU DANCE – SOUTH AFRICA: The Zulu War Dance

Indlamu Dance is a Zulu War dance that originated in South Africa. Indlamu is a very high-spirited and energetic tribal war dance form that comes from the Zulu tribe in Africa. It is often performed in festivals and marriage ceremonies. Indlamu dance is usually performed on ‘drum-based ‘ music and the performers generally wear traditional Zulu costumes.

Indlamu - a tribal Zulu dance from South Africa
Indlamu Dance

What is the meaning of Indlamu?

Indlamu is a traditional Zulu dance that is performed by men. The word “Indlamu” is derived from the Zulu word “dlamu,” which means to stomp or stamp the feet. The dance is characterized by its energetic and rhythmic movements, which involve a lot of foot-stomping, clapping, and chanting.

Indlamu is an important part of Zulu culture and is often performed at traditional ceremonies such as weddings, funerals, and other important events. The dance is not only a form of entertainment but also serves as a way for the Zulu people to connect with their cultural heritage and history.

In recent times, Indlamu has also become popular in other parts of South Africa and even beyond, with many people embracing it as a way to celebrate and showcase African culture.

History and Origin of Indlamu Dance:

It is said that traditionally this dance has been a major part of Zulu culture. The Zulu tribal community performs a variety of dance forms, including Indlamu. This dance is mainly performed to the beats of the drum and was once considered to be a form of war dance. This dance is usually performed by men during auspicious events such as marriages.

The Purpose Of The Indlamu Dance?

The purpose of the Indlamu dance is to serve as a cultural expression and connection to Zulu heritage and history. It is performed at traditional events such as weddings and funerals and involves rhythmic movements, foot-stomping, clapping, and chanting. Additionally, Indlamu has become a way to celebrate and showcase African culture beyond South Africa’s borders.

Costumes worn in the Indlamu Dance:

INDLAMU DANCE, SOUTH AFRICA
The costume worn by the performers (mainly male but not necessarily) is a very unique outfit that makes the Zulu people look strikingly impressive. The Indlamu dance costume includes animal skin, also called “Amabheshu”, headrings, ceremonial belts, ankle rattles, and weapons such as shields, spears, and knobkerries. The Indlamu Dance Costume is unique in itself as they represent the culture of the Zulu people.


Indlamu Dance Music:

“Percussion based” is the best way to describe the music used in this dance style. Indlamu Music uses various instruments. The essentially used musical instruments are different types of drums and whistles.

Training availability and the technique involved in the Indlamu:

Indlamu Dance, South Africa

In terms of technique, Indlamu dance involves a performer (male) lifting up one foot above his head, and then landing that leg firmly on the ground and at times falling backwards. Indlamu dance is usually performed in groups and at times a group member comes centre stage to perform his or her dance routine. As for training centre and schools, there are none available around the world since this “war dance” is mainly performed exclusively among the “Zulu” community in South Africa.

Best Indlamu Dance videos:

Zulu Warrior Dance – SA
Zulu cultural group Dance (INKANINI)
Zulu Tribal Dance, South Africa
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nExzW8NbaZY
INDLAMU Kwazulu Natal Best Zulu Dance (Must Watch)
INDLONDLO ZULU DANCERS
South African folk dance: Indlamu & Ingoma
INDLAMU DANCE: traditional dance (South Africa).

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