Which folk dance of India uses wooden dummy horses, vibrant costumes, and is performed to commemorate battlefield valor?
- AOption (a)
Bhangra
- BOption (b)
Garba
- COption (c)
Kummi
- DOption (d)
Poikkal Kuthirai
View answer & explanationHide answer & explanation
Correct answer
Poikkal Kuthirai
Why this answer is correct
The correct answer is Poikkal Kuthirai.
Key Points
- Poikkal Kuthirai is a traditional folk dance originating from the state of Tamil Nadu, India.
- The name literally translates to False Leg Horse or Dummy Horse Dance in the Tamil language.
- Performers use a dummy horse frame made of lightweight materials like jute, cardboard, paper, and wood, which is strapped around the dancer's waist.
- The dance is traditionally performed to commemorate the battlefield valor and heroic deeds of ancient soldiers and warriors.
- Dancers wear wooden stilts attached to their feet, which produce a rhythmic clattering sound mimicking the galloping of a horse.
- It is often performed during temple festivals and is associated with the worship of Ayyanar, a rural deity believed to be a protector.
- The performance is accompanied by traditional musical instruments such as the Nadaswaram and Thavil.
Additional Information
- Bhangra
- Originates from the Majha region of Punjab.
- Traditionally performed by farmers to celebrate the harvest season and the festival of Vaisakhi.
- Characterized by high-energy movements and the rhythmic beat of the Dhol.
- Garba
- A vibrant folk dance from the state of Gujarat.
- Performed during the nine nights of the Navratri festival to honor the Goddess Durga.
- Dancers move in concentric circles around a centrally lit lamp or an idol.
- Kummi
- One of the most ancient folk dances of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
- Performed primarily by women who stand in a circle and dance to the rhythm of clapping hands rather than musical instruments.

























