The folk dance of West Bengal Kathi dance is notable for its hand and leg coordination. The dance served as a revival of the culture but now it is performed for amusement and performed by the lower castes.
Performance of Kathi Dance
This dance is exclusively performed by a group of men and incorporates songs based on stories of villagers. The dance is an amalgamation of footwork and beating of sticks by the performers. For a long period of time, the steps are repeated. Different postures are displayed by the dancers and they form and reform the circles. The sticks are beaten without stopping. They show many interesting movements that are similar to a war. The participants shout as soldiers shout on the battlefield.
The dance is popular during Durga Puja and is displayed in various parts of West Bengal. The sticks resemble the weapons used in the battle and the person at the center is presumed to be the victim. The performers carry lamps during the dance.
Costume of Kathi dance
The shirts of the performers are made up of leopard skin and dhotis are worn which is accompanied by anklets.