JANGI DANCE – AZERBAIJAN

Jangi Dance is war dance performed mostly by men and is also a national dance of Azerbijan. Jangi is derived from a Persian word which when literally translated in English means “fighting”. This South Caucasus region dance is a ‘war dance’ and is said to have originated from Azerbaijan. In addition, this dance is mainly performed during public holidays or cultural concerts.

A. History/origin of Jangi dance:

Traditionally speaking, Azerbaijan as a country has experienced many fierce battles over the centuries in which many men have sacrificed their lives. And so it was with the intention of honouring the bravery of warriors/soldiers that this dance form was created within the country.

B. Costumes used in the Jangi dance:

Traditional Azerbaijani costumes are used by the male and female performers respectively. They are as follows:

1. For men:

The attire worn includes a colourful long jacket, a trouser, and pair of shoes.

2. For women:

The attire worn includes a colourful dress that includes a skirt, a colourful overcoat, and an elaborate headgear.

C. Music involved in the Jangi dance:

Traditional Azerbaijani musical instruments such as tar i.e. a skin faced lute, a kamancha i.e. a skin faced spike fiddle, the saz i.e. a long lute, tutek i.e. whistle flute, daf i.e. frame drum etc are used in this dance style.

D. Training availability and technique involved in the Jangi dance:

In terms of technique, the performers in this dance basically perform to the accompanying music as a way of expressing before war/battle. Furthermore, this dance is mainly performed to pay tribute to the bravery of the warrior/soldier. As training centers/schools, there are none available since this “war” dance is mainly performed in Azerbaijan.

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