COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA STUDIES

PERFORMING ARTS
Course Code: BCMS
Bachelors V

Submitted To
Shazia Hashmat

Submitted By
Fatima Sheraz :2021-BCMS-53

FATIMA NJINNAH WOMEN UNIVERSITY

Q 1: -Write note on the following forms of Pakistan’s performing art?

Dances of Pakistan:
1. Punjab:
 Bhangra: Bhangra has originated in Sialkot, and is mostly performed in Punjab
and the northern parts of India. Bhangra is usually performed in the form of a
group where several dancers perform a series of kicks, and bends of their bodies.
The dance also includes vigorous movements of arms and shoulders. Bhangra is
mostly performed on the beat of the dhol and was initially performed by the
farmers of Punjab during the harvesting period. People in Punjab performed
Bhangra as a sense of accomplishment of their yearly agricultural work and to
welcome the harvesting season during the Vaisakhi Festival. Today, Bhangra is a
source of cultural expression in Punjab and has revolutionized itself into the

modern mainstream music and dance industry too, especially the Bollywood,
Lollywood and the Punjabi films.

 Giddha: This is a traditional dance form performed by women. Giddha is

characterized by graceful movements, clapping, and rhythmic expressions. It is
commonly performed during weddings and other festive occasions.
  Luddi: Luddi is also one of the most popular folk dances in Punjab. Like Bhangra,
Luddi is also performed in the form of a group, and is performed at weddings and
other joyful events. The dance consists of lower body movements with slight
involvement of arms and body turns. Mostly popular amongst the Sardars of
Punjab, the dancers traditionally wear loose shirts and tie their head with a scarf
or a turban. The beat at which Luddi is performed is also quite similar to that of
Bhangra. Unlike Bhangra, Luddi is performed mostly by women at mehndi
functions. Several songs have also been made about Luddi, including “Luddi hai
Jamalo”, an iconic Madam Noor Jehan song from the film Sahib Jee (1983), to
which women danced in the ‘1980s.

2. Sindh:
 Bhagat: "Sindhi Bhagat" refers to a traditional dance form performed in the Sindh
region of Pakistan. It is deeply rooted in the Sufi traditions of the area and is
often associated with devotional practices at Sufi shrines. The dance is named
after the Bhagat community, who are known for their spiritual and devotional
practices.
Key features of Sindhi Bhagat dance include:
i. Spiritual Significance: Sindhi Bhagat dance is inherently spiritual and is often
performed as an expression of devotion at Sufi shrines. It is a way for the dancers
to connect with the divine and express their reverence.
ii. Ritualistic Performances: The dance is performed during special occasions and
religious festivals. It is not only a form of entertainment but also a ritualistic
practice through which the dancers seek spiritual fulfillment.
iii. Costumes and Attire: Dancers typically wear traditional attire, which may include
vibrant and colorful dresses. The costumes are often embellished with intricate
embroidery, reflecting the cultural richness of the region.
 iv. Musical Accompaniment: Sindhi Bhagat dance is accompanied by traditional Sufi
music, including the use of instruments like the dholak, flute, and harmonium.
The music adds a rhythmic and melodic dimension to the performance.
v. Movements and Expressions: The dance involves a combination of graceful
movements, spins, and gestures. Dancers use their bodies to convey emotions
and tell spiritual stories, creating a visually captivating performance.
vi. Community Participation: Sindhi Bhagat dance is often a community activity
where people come together to celebrate their faith. It fosters a sense of unity
and shared devotion among the participants.
vii. Cultural Preservation: The dance form plays a crucial role in preserving and
promoting the cultural heritage of Sindh. It is a testament to the region's rich
history, traditions, and the synthesis of cultural and spiritual practices.
Sindhi Bhagat dance serves as a cultural and spiritual bridge, connecting people
through shared traditions and a collective expression of devotion. It continues to be
an integral part of the cultural tapestry of Sindh, contributing to the diversity of
Pakistan's performing arts.

 Ho Jamalo: "Ho Jamalo" is a traditional Sindhi dance that is popular in the Sindhi
community of Pakistan. This dance is often performed during various celebratory
occasions, with its roots deeply embedded in Sindhi culture and traditions. The term "Ho
Jamalo" itself is an expression of joy and celebration.
Key Features of Sindhi Ho Jamalo Dance:
I. Celebratory Occasions: Ho Jamalo is commonly performed during festive events,
especially at Sindhi weddings and other joyous celebrations. It adds a lively and
exuberant element to the festivities.
II. Group Dance: Typically, Ho Jamalo is a group dance where men and women come
together to form a circle or line. The collective nature of the dance emphasizes
community participation and shared joy.
 III. Colorful Attire: Dancers wear vibrant and colorful traditional Sindhi attire. The costumes
often include brightly hued dresses, adorned with intricate embroidery, mirror work, and
traditional Sindhi jewelry, enhancing the visual appeal of the performance.
IV. Rhythmic Movements: The dance involves rhythmic footwork and hand movements.
Dancers create a lively and energetic atmosphere through coordinated steps, clapping,
and expressive gestures.
V. Traditional Music: Ho Jamalo is accompanied by traditional Sindhi music, featuring
instruments such as the dholak, harmonium, and flute. The music is upbeat, enhancing
the festive mood and encouraging active participation from the dancers.
VI. Cultural Expressions: The dance serves as a cultural expression, reflecting the heritage
and identity of the Sindhi community. It embodies the spirit of celebration and the
resilience of Sindhi cultural traditions.
VII. Social Bonding: Ho Jamalo provides an opportunity for social interaction and bonding
within the community. It is a form of collective celebration that fosters a sense of unity
and joy among the participants.
VIII. Symbol of Sindhi Culture: The dance is not only a source of entertainment but also a
symbol of Sindhi cultural pride. It represents the rich cultural diversity of Pakistan and
contributes to the preservation and promotion of Sindhi traditions.
Sindhi Ho Jamalo dance, with its festive and community-oriented nature, continues to be an
integral part of Sindhi celebrations, showcasing the vibrancy and cultural richness of the
region.

3. Balochistan:
Balochistan, the largest province of Pakistan, is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups,
each with its own unique cultural heritage. The traditional dances of Balochistan are deeply
rooted in the local customs, reflecting the lifestyle, beliefs, and historical narratives of the
Baloch people. Here are some notable dances of Balochistan:
 Levies Dance: The Levies Dance is a traditional Balochi dance often performed by
members of the Levies force, a paramilitary force in Balochistan. It is a reflection of the
martial and warrior culture of the region. The dance involves dynamic movements and
gestures that simulate martial skills. Dancers may use traditional weaponry, such as
swords, during the performance. The dance celebrates bravery and strength.

 Chap: Chap is a traditional Balochi dance that is popular in various regions of

Balochistan. It is performed during cultural events, weddings, and other festive
occasions. Chap is characterized by fast-paced footwork, with dancers often forming a
circle. The movements are rhythmic and dynamic, reflecting the agility and vitality of the
Balochi people. Traditional Balochi music accompanies the dance.

 Lewan: Lewan is a Balochi dance that is particularly associated with the coastal regions
of Balochistan, including Gwadar and Pasni. Dancers perform Lewan in a circular
formation, moving gracefully to the beat of traditional music. The dance often
incorporates hand movements and expressive gestures. It is a lively and joyous dance
performed during festivals and cultural events.

 Do-chapi: Do-chapi is a traditional dance of the Baloch people, often performed at

weddings and celebrations. The dance involves pairs of dancers, typically male and
female, moving together in a coordinated manner. The word "Do-chapi" itself means
"two footsteps," indicating the synchronized steps of the dancers. It is a social dance
that reflects the cultural unity and harmony within the community.

 Jhumar: Jhumar is a dance form that is not exclusive to Balochistan but is also popular in
various other regions, including Punjab. However, it is performed by the Baloch
community in their own distinctive style. Jhumar is a slow and graceful dance often
 accompanied by soulful music. Dancers use delicate hand movements and elegant
footwork, creating a visually captivating performance.

These dances not only showcase the cultural diversity within Balochistan but also serve as a
means of preserving and passing on the rich heritage of the Baloch people from one
generation to the next.

4. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK):

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), a province in the northwestern region of Pakistan, is home
to various ethnic groups, each with its own unique cultural heritage. The traditional
dances of KPK reflect the vibrant and diverse traditions of the Pashtun people and other
communities in the region. Here are some notable dances of KPK:

 Attan: Attan is one of the most well-known and widely performed traditional
dances in KPK. It is also considered the national dance of Afghanistan and is
popular among Pashtuns on both sides of the border. Attan is a group dance
where participants form a circle or a line. Dancers perform intricate footwork,
with the rhythm provided by a drummer and other traditional instruments. Attan
is often performed at weddings, cultural events, and festive occasions.

 Khattak Dance: Khattak Dance is a traditional dance associated with the Khattak
tribe of KPK. It is known for its energetic and lively movements. Khattak Dance
involves quick and rhythmic footwork, accompanied by the distinctive sound of
 wooden sticks known as "chappar." Dancers wear traditional attire, and the
dance is often performed during special events and celebrations.

 Chap: Chap is a popular dance in KPK, often performed at weddings and other
festive occasions. Chap involves fast-paced footwork, and dancers may form a
circle or line. The dance is characterized by quick turns, jumps, and expressive
movements. Traditional Pashto music accompanies the performance.

 Loi Dance: Loi Dance is a traditional Pashtun dance that is performed during the
annual harvest festival known as "Loi." Dancers celebrate the harvest season
with joyous movements, expressing gratitude for the abundance of crops. The
dance is accompanied by traditional music and reflects the agrarian traditions of
the region.

 Saami Dance: Saami Dance is a traditional Pashtun dance performed by the

Saami tribe in KPK. Dancers often form a circle and perform intricate footwork.
The dance is marked by expressive hand movements and is accompanied by
traditional Pashto music.
These traditional dances not only entertain but also serve as a means of preserving the
cultural identity and heritage of the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. They play a vital
role in celebrations, social gatherings, and the transmission of cultural values from one
generation to the next.

5. Kashmir:
Kashmir, known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse cultural heritage, has several
traditional dances that reflect the region's rich history and the influence of its unique
cultural blend. Here are some notable dances of Kashmir:

 Hafiza Dance: Hafiza Dance is a traditional dance performed by women in

Kashmir during weddings and other festive occasions. haracteristics: Hafiza
Dance is characterized by slow and graceful movements. The dancers often
 balance pots or trays on their heads, showcasing a display of skill and elegance.
The dance is accompanied by traditional Kashmiri music.

 Dumhal: Dumhal is a traditional dance form associated with the Kashmiri

community, particularly the Dumhal tribe. Dumhal is performed with a
distinctive traditional Kashmiri drum called the "Dumhal Nagara." Dancers wear
colorful costumes and headgear, and the dance involves slow, measured steps.
Dumhal is often performed during religious or social events.

 Bhand Pather: Bhand Pather is a traditional form of folk theater in Kashmir that
incorporates dance, music, and satire. Performers, known as "Bhands," use
humor and satire to convey social messages. The performance includes lively
dance sequences, and the Bhand artists often wear colorful costumes and masks.
Bhand Pather plays a role in both entertainment and social commentary.
  Rouf: Rouf is a traditional dance form that is specific to the Kashmiri Muslim
community and is often performed during the spring festival of Navroz. Rouf
involves a group of women who dance in rhythmic patterns, often forming a grid
or other geometric shapes. The dance is accompanied by traditional Kashmiri
songs and the use of traditional instruments like the tambourine.

 Kashmiri Ballroom Dance: This dance is more contemporary and is influenced by

the ballroom dance style. It is popular in social gatherings and events in Kashmir.
Dancers, often in pairs, showcase elegant and graceful movements. The dance
may incorporate modern and traditional music, catering to a more contemporary
taste while retaining elements of Kashmiri cultural expression.
These dances are not only forms of entertainment but also significant cultural
expressions that contribute to the identity and heritage of the Kashmiri people. They are
integral parts of social celebrations and rituals, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural
tapestry of the region.

6. Gilgit-Baltistan:
Gilgit-Baltistan, located in the northernmost part of Pakistan, has a diverse cultural
heritage that is reflected in its traditional dances. The region is home to various ethnic
groups, including Shins, Baltis, and Wakhi, each contributing to the rich tapestry of
Gilgit-Baltistan's cultural expressions. Here are some notable dances of Gilgit-Baltistan:

 Dandi Shuff: Dandi Shuff is a traditional dance form of Gilgit-Baltistan, often

performed during cultural festivals and celebrations. Dancers move in a circular
pattern while holding sticks (dandis) in their hands. The dance involves rhythmic
footwork and coordinated movements, creating an engaging and visually
appealing performance. Dandi Shuff is a celebration of the region's cultural
identity.
 Yak Dance: The Yak Dance is a traditional dance associated with the Wakhi
community in Gilgit-Baltistan, particularly in the Wakhan Corridor. Dancers
imitate the movements of yaks, incorporating slow, deliberate steps. The dance
often symbolizes the pastoral lifestyle and the significance of yaks in the
mountainous regions of Gilgit-Baltistan.

 Balti Dance: Balti Dance represents the dance traditions of the Balti people, an
ethnic group in Gilgit-Baltistan. Dancers perform lively and energetic
movements, often with intricate footwork. Traditional Balti music, featuring
instruments like drums and flutes, accompanies the dance. The costumes worn
by the dancers reflect the colorful and vibrant cultural heritage of the Balti
community.

 Shina Dance: Shina Dance is associated with the Shina-speaking communities in

Gilgit-Baltistan. The dance features graceful movements and expressions.
Dancers often form circles or lines, and the performance is accompanied by
 traditional Shina music. Shina Dance is a representation of the cultural identity of
the Shina-speaking people in the region.

 Chapring Dance: The Chapring Dance is performed in the Ghizer district of Gilgit-
Baltistan during weddings and other festive occasions. Dancers perform with
colorful scarves or chadors, creating visual patterns as they move. The dance is
characterized by its lively and joyful nature, contributing to the celebratory
atmosphere of events.

 Shimshal Dance: Shimshal Dance is associated with the Shimshal Valley and is
performed during cultural events and festivals. Dancers showcase traditional
Shimshali attire and perform lively movements that often mimic daily activities
like farming and herding. The dance celebrates the local way of life and is a
testament to the cultural diversity within Gilgit-Baltistan.

These dances play a vital role in preserving and promoting the cultural identity of the
diverse communities in Gilgit-Baltistan. They are not only forms of artistic expression but
also integral components of social and cultural celebrations in the region.
Forms of Pakistani Music:
1. Tapay: Pashto and Punjabi Tapay are traditional folk songs often sung at weddings. They
express themes of love, separation, and the Pashtun and Punjabi way of life.

2. Wedding Songs: Songs are an integral part of Pakistani weddings, especially during the
pre-wedding Mehndi ceremony. These songs are vibrant, upbeat, and celebrate the
joyous occasion.

3. Qawali: Originating from the Sufi traditions, Qawali is a devotional music form. It
involves powerful vocal performances accompanied by traditional instruments, creating
a spiritually uplifting experience.
4. Ghazal: Ghazal is a poetic and soulful form of music. It often explores themes of love,
loss, and mysticism. Renowned poets like Faiz Ahmed Faiz and singers like Ghulam Ali
have contributed significantly to the Ghazal genre.

5. Sufi Music: Sufi music, including Qawali, represents the mystical and spiritual aspects of
Islam. Sufi Kalam, or Sufi poetry set to music, is a soul-stirring form of expression that
seeks to connect with the divine.
Theater of Pakistan:
Pakistan has a diverse and vibrant theater scene that encompasses various forms and styles.
The theatrical traditions in the country have evolved over the years, incorporating influences
from different regions and cultural backgrounds. Here are some types of theater in Pakistan:

1. Provincial Theater:
 Each province in Pakistan has its own unique theatrical traditions that reflect the
local culture and languages. Punjabi, Sindhi, Balochi, Pashto, and Urdu theaters
contribute to the rich tapestry of provincial theater.

2. Puppet Theater:
 Puppetry is a traditional form of theater in Pakistan, with puppet shows often
used to convey moral tales, historical stories, and entertain audiences, especially
children. Puppeteers use colorful puppets and perform in various styles,
including string puppetry and hand puppetry.
3. Contemporary Theater:
 Urban centers in Pakistan, particularly in cities like Karachi and Lahore, showcase
contemporary theater that addresses modern social issues. Playwrights and
directors explore diverse themes, and contemporary theater often incorporates
elements of realism and experimental storytelling.

4. Street Theater:
 Street theater is an accessible form of performance that takes place in public
spaces. It often addresses social and political issues, bringing theater directly to
the community. Street theater is a powerful medium for raising awareness and
engaging with a broad audience.

5. Bazm-e-Tolu:
 Originating in Karachi, Bazm-e-Tolu is a unique form of theater that combines
traditional storytelling with modern dramatic elements. It often uses satire to
 comment on societal issues and brings together elements of humor and social
critique.

6. Educational Theater:
 Some theater groups focus on educational and awareness-raising performances.
These productions are designed to convey messages related to health, education,
and social issues. Educational theater is often used as a tool for social change and
community development.

7. Classical Theater:
 Classical theater draws inspiration from historical and traditional forms. While
not as prominent as contemporary theater, there are efforts to revive and
promote classical forms, including adaptations of classical Urdu and Persian
plays.

8. Experimental Theater:
 Experimental theater pushes the boundaries of traditional storytelling and
performance. It may involve non-linear narratives, multimedia elements, and
unconventional staging. Experimental theater groups aim to explore new forms
of expression and engage with diverse audiences.

9. Community Theater:
  Community theater initiatives focus on involving local communities in the artistic
process. These projects often collaborate with community members to create
performances that address issues relevant to the local context.

10. Radio and TV Theater:

 Radio and television have been significant platforms for dramatic productions in
Pakistan. Radio plays and television dramas have played a crucial role in reaching
a wide audience and shaping cultural narratives.

These types of theater collectively contribute to the dynamic and evolving landscape of
performing arts in Pakistan, showcasing the country's cultural diversity and serving as a platform
for artistic expression and social commentary.