Belonging to the “Kokna” tribe in the western coast of India is a dance style known as Pavri Naach. This “folk dance” having originated from the state of Maharashtra, is also said to be performed in the neighbouring state of Gujarat. Apparently, this dance style has been named after a local musical (wind) instrument known as “Tarpha or Pavri”. In addition, this folk dance is performed by both males and females. Furthermore, this dance style involves the use of complicated formations.
a. History/origin of the Pavri Naach:
This form of tribal dance is said to have emerged from a tribal community called “Kokna” residing in the hilly regions in the state of Maharashtra. In addition, this dance form is said to be performed by both male and females. Furthermore, this style of dance is also known as Tarpha Nach, and is named after a wind instrument made from dried gourd referred to as “Tarpha”.
b. Costumes used in the Pavri Nach:
This dance can be performed both by males as well as females, and hence the costume worn varies accordingly. They are as follows:
1. For females:
The costume worn basically includes a traditional Indian saree.
2. For males:
The attire used includes a white shirt, a black overcoat, a white dhoti, and a white headgear.
c. Music involved in the Pavri Nach:
The musical instrument mainly used to produce music for this dance style is wind instrument known as “Tarpha”. Furthermore, this instrument is said to have been made from dried gourd.
d. Training availability and technique involved in the Pavri Nach:
As for the technique, this dance involves performers first and foremost arranging themselves in a form of a “pyramid”. They then hold each other by the waist, and dance using quick feet movements in complete synch with the music generated by a wind instrument called “Tarpha”. In addition, the male and female performers generally perform separately in the form of groups. As for training schools/centres, there are none available throughout the country since this is an indigenous dance style exclusively belonging to a tribal community called “Kokna”.