Folk dance form loses to DJs

MUMBAI: The entry of film songs, DJs and orchestra has put an end to traditional folk dance performances by Balya community.

MUMBAI: The entry of film songs, DJs and orchestra has put an end to traditional folk dance performances by Balya community.

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Dancers from Konkan performed Balya or Jakhdi (standing position) nritya to welcome Ganesha’s mother Gauri on the fifth day of the festival. The dholak and other instrument players sit in the middle and balyas dance around them. “They wore an ornament called ‘bali’ in one ear and hence are called ‘balyas’,” said Naresh Dahibavkar, president, Brihanmumbai Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Samanvay Samiti (BSGSS).

“We would form circles, turn and clap in front of Gauri. We got the beats from ghungroos and dholki,” said Sunil Mandavkar, a former Balya dancer, adding the demand has dipped in the past five years. “Youngsters want novelty in festivals too,” said Tukaram Raut, treasurer, Brihanmumbai Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Samanvay Samiti (BSGSS). “We haven’t witnessed one performance in the past three years.”

“DJs and orchestras have replaced the traditional flavour of the festival,” said Prakash Chavan, a performer, adding another meaning of Balya in Marathi is child. “The city seems to have disowned its child,” he said.