Here’s All You Need to Know About Jhumur Dance Before the Historic Performance ‘Jhumoir Bandini’ on Feb 24 in Guwahati

Assam is also gearing up for even bigger cultural milestones before the end of 2025,

By Lipika Roy

After the historic achievement of entering the Guinness Book of World Records with the Bihu dance by 11,010 Bihu dancers or ‘nasonis’ and drummers or ‘dhuliyas’ last year, the Assam Government is now all set to achieve another record-breaking feat with ‘Jhumoir Nandini’ a Jhumur performance by over 8000 artists from the tea tribe community of the state at the Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati on February 24.

The event will commemorate 200 years of the tea sector in Assam and will also be a precursor to Advantage Assam 2.0 which will be held on February 25 and 26.

The Jhumoir performance will be witnessed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Ambassadors of various countries and business tycoons, who will be in Guwahati to attend Advantage Assam 2.0.

Here’s everything you need to know about Jhumur dance-its origins, significance, music, costumes, and why this record-breaking event matters.

What is jhumur dance?

Jhumur is a traditional folk dance form practiced by the tea tribe community in Assam.
The Jhumur dance is characterised by its colourful costumes, expressive gestures, and rhythmic movements.

It is usually performed in groups, most of which are made up of women, who dance to the rhythms of traditional instruments like the flute, cymbals, and dhol (drum).

The dancers move in circular patterns, with coordinated footwork and hand gestures that depict various aspects of daily life, nature, and folklore.

Jhumur dance is not just a form of entertainment but also serves as a medium for social cohesion and cultural expression among the tea tribe communities. Showcasing the community’s rich tradition and distinct identity, it is usually performed during festivals, cultural events, and special occasions.

Cultural Significance:

1.Celebrated during festivals, harvests, and special occasions.
2.Used in rituals, prayers for rain, and courtship traditions.
3.A symbol of community spirit, unity, and Assam’s tea heritage.

Traditional Attire:
Women’s Attire: Bright saris or dhotis with intricate jewelry.
Accessories: Heavy necklaces, bangles, earrings, and floral headgear.

Music and Instruments Used in Jhumur Dance

Jhumur dance is performed to the beats of traditional folk instruments, which add depth and energy to the performance.

1. Dhol: A double-headed drum that sets the rhythm.
2. Mandar: A deep-toned drum used in tribal music.
3. Nagara: A kettle drum that enhances the festive atmosphere.
4. Bansuri (Flute): Adds a melodious touch to the dance performance.

Dance Elements & Choreography:

Jhumur dance is a simple yet captivating folk tradition, characterised by fluid movements that symbolize unity and harmony. Dancers perform in rows, holding hands in a chain formation, moving gracefully in swaying motions, rhythmic claps, and synchronized footwork. Each gesture is deeply expressive, telling stories of love, nature, and the everyday struggles of the tea tribe community, making Jhumur both a visual and cultural spectacle.

What is the significance of Jhumur dance?:
Shaped by regional influences, Jhumur draws inspiration from local customs, reflecting the rituals, celebrations, and traditions of rural life. It is prominently featured during harvest festivals, symbolizing abundance and togetherness, while also weaving in themes of romance, nature, and seasonal transitions.

Why is Assam Showcasing Jhumur Dance?

1. To promote and preserve the rich traditions of the tea tribe community.
2. To honour the 200-year legacy of Assam’s tea industry.
3. To boost cultural tourism and international recognition.
4. To highlight Assam’s investment potential at Advantage Assam 2.0.

This grand event will not only celebrate Assam’s cultural identity but also cement its place on the global stage through yet another record-breaking performance.

Assam is also gearing up for even bigger cultural milestones before the end of 2025, with plans to set multiple world records- a historic mass singing of the Assam State Anthem, “O Mur Apunar Dexh,” with 1 crore people participating and Bagarumba dance by over 10,000 dancers, said Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Also Read: Assam Now Has India’s 2nd Highest Number of National Parks with the Addition of Sikhna Jwhwlao

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