UP High Court RO / ARO 10 Dec 2021 Shift 1

"Pandwani" is the famous folk dance form of which State ?

Verified Answer
A. Uttarakhand
B. Chhattisgarh
C. Madhya Pradesh
D. Uttar Pradesh

Explanation:

Pandwani is a unique narrative folk art form that combines storytelling, singing, and instrumental music, primarily focusing on tales from the Mahabharata. * **Correct Option (B) Chhattisgarh:** Pandwani is a traditional folk art form that originates from the state of Chhattisgarh, India. Performers, often accompanied by a tambura and sometimes other instruments, narrate episodes from the ancient Indian epic Mahabharata. The renowned artist Teejan Bai is a globally recognized exponent of Pandwani, known for her powerful and expressive performances. The art form is deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of Chhattisgarh. * **Incorrect Option (A) Uttarakhand:** Uttarakhand has its own rich array of folk dances and musical traditions, such as Chholiya, Langvir Nritya, and Pandav Nritya, but Pandwani is not native to this Himalayan state. * **Incorrect Option (C) Madhya Pradesh:** Madhya Pradesh, a neighboring state, also boasts diverse folk arts like Matki, Jawara, and Grida dances. However, Pandwani is distinctly associated with Chhattisgarh, which was carved out of Madhya Pradesh in 2000. * **Incorrect Option (D) Uttar Pradesh:** Uttar Pradesh is known for classical dance forms like Kathak and various folk traditions such as Raslila, Charkula, and Nautanki. Pandwani is not a folk dance form originating from Uttar Pradesh.