Curated By: Nibandh Vinod
Last Updated: October 22, 2023, 07:05 IST
Durga Puja 2023: Dhunuchi Naach is a devotional dance carried out in entrance of the Goddess Durga. (Image: Shutterstock)
Dhunuchi Naach is a devotional dance carried out throughout Durga Puja. Learn extra about this distinctive and mesmerizing dance kind, together with when is it carried out, how it is executed, who does it, and security precautions.
Durga Puja is devoted to the worship of Goddess Durga, who is believed to represent the triumph of fine over evil. The pageant often spans over a interval of a number of days, with the most vital celebrations occurring on the previous few days.
Dhunuchi Naach, also called Dhunuchi Dance, is carried out on the final three days of Durga Puja, throughout the night aarti (worship ritual). It is additionally carried out on the day of Mahalaya, the starting of the Durga Puja season. It is a devotional dance carried out in entrance of the Goddess.
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It is a vigorous and energetic dance, carried out to the beats of the dhak, a conventional drum. The dance is a method of paying homage to Goddess Durga and looking for her blessings. It is additionally an expression of pleasure and devotion. Here’s all you have to learn about it.
WHAT DOES DHUNUCHI MEAN?
The time period Dhunuchi refers to a kind of censer or incense burner. It is usually manufactured from clay or steel, and it has a particular form with a large base and a slim neck. The Dhunuchi is full of burning coals, and incense or fragrant substances like camphor and resin are positioned on prime. This produces a aromatic and smoky environment.
WHO DOES IT?
Dhunuchi Naach is often carried out by each males and ladies, and it is not restricted to skilled dancers. People from the local people typically participate in these dances, making it a collective and inclusive celebration. There are additionally many Dhunuchi Naach competitions held throughout Durga Puja.
HOW IS IT DONE?
The dancers maintain the Dhunuchi of their palms whereas the incense burns, and they carry out a conventional dance. The dance includes intricate footwork and hand actions, with the Dhunuchi being swayed, twirled, and moved in numerous patterns. The dancers typically put on conventional apparel, similar to sarees and dhotis, and adorn themselves with ornaments.
The dance is accompanied by the rhythmic beats of conventional devices like the dhak (a kind of drum) and the sound of conventional songs. The music provides power and enthusiasm to the efficiency.
EXPRESSION OF DEVOTION
Dhunuchi Naach is not only a bodily efficiency; it is a religious and devotional act. Dancers typically shut their eyes and get misplaced in the rhythm and the intoxicating smoke of the Dhunuchi, permitting it to be a deeply meditative expertise. The dance is an integral a part of the cultural and spiritual celebrations throughout Durga Puja, and it is a singular option to categorical devotion and have a good time the victory of fine over evil in the presence of Goddess Durga.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
It is a comparatively protected dance kind, however there are just a few precautions that dancers ought to take:
- Wear protecting clothes, similar to a long-sleeved shirt and pants, to keep away from burns from the sizzling coals.
- Be cautious to not inhale an excessive amount of smoke from the incense.
- If you are feeling dizzy or lightheaded, take a break from dancing.
SIGNIFICANCE OF DHUNUCHI DANCE DURING DURGA PUJA
Maha Navami marks the fruits of the epic battle between the formidable Goddess Durga and the malevolent Mahishasura. On the tenth day, the resounding victory of Goddess Durga over evil is celebrated. Navami, subsequently, holds a profound significance in the Durga Puja festivities.
One of the most charming expressions of devotion throughout this time is the Dhunuchi dance. This vibrant dance kind is a heartfelt dedication to Goddess Durga herself. In historical lore, it is mentioned that the goddess herself engaged on this dance to harness and channel divine power. Consequently, the custom of Dhunuchi dance persists to this present day, particularly on the auspicious night of Maha Navami.
