Culture of Durg District is very unique and vibrant. There are over 35 big and small colourful tribes spread over the region. Their rhythmic folk music, dances and dramas are considered as magnificent. Interestingly, the folk dances and music of this district of Chhattisgarh also provide an insight into their vast indigenous culture. The most famous dance-drama of Durg District is Pandwani, which is a musical narration of the great Hindu epic Mahabharata. Raut Nacha (folk dance of cowherds), the Panthi and Soowa are some of the other famous dance styles of the region.
Pandwani
Pandwani is a folk ballad form performed predominantly in Durg District of Chhattisgarh. It depicts the story of the Pandavas of Mahabharat. It is narrated in a very lively form, almost constructing the scenes in the minds of the audience. Traditionally a male preserve, it has also seen the inclusion of women artist in recent times. The artists in the Pandwani narration consist of a lead artist and some supporting singers and musicians. The lead artist narrates one episode after another from the epic in a very forceful manner. He enacts the characters in the scenes to produce a more realistic effect. Occasionally, he also shows some dance movements. During the performance he sings along the rhythm produced by the Ektara held in his hand. There are two styles of narration in Pandwani; Vedamati and Kapalik. In the Vedamati style the lead artist narrates in a simple manner by sitting on the floor throughout the performance. The Kaplik style is livelier, where the narrator actually enacts the scenes and characters.
Panthi Dance
This folk dance of the Satnamis of Chhattisgarh bears religious overtones. Performed on Maghi Purnima - the birth anniversary of Guru Baba Ghasidas, the dance is constantly evolving to include a variety of steps and patterns. The dancers dance around a jaitkhamb set up for the occasion, to the songs praising their spiritual head. The songs also reflect the Nirvana philosophy, conveying the spirit of renunciation of their Guru and the teachings of saints like Kabir, Guru Ramdas Ji and Dadu. Dancers with bent torsos and swinging arms dance with complete devotion. As the rhythm quickens, they indulge in acrobatics and even form human pyramids.
Raut Nacha
Raut Nacha, the folk dance of cowherds. This traditional folk dance of Durg District is considered as a symbol of worshiping Lord Krishna at the time of `Dev Uthani Ekadashi` (awakening of Gods after brief rest) according to the Hindu traditional calendar.
These traditional dance forms and songs contribute heavily to the rich and diverse culture of Durg District.
