Giddha

What is Giddha?

Giddha is a folk dance performed by women, mainly in Punjab. The dancers stand in a circle, clapping in rhythm while singing traditional songs. A lead singer chants a verse, and the others repeat it, creating a call-and-response pattern. The dance is energetic and expressive, often showing both grace and strength. The songs, called boliyan, tell stories from women's everyday lives. The dance is colourful, with participants wearing bright clothes and traditional jewellery.

Where does Giddha come from?

Giddha traces its roots to the ancient ring dance of Punjab. It has long been a way for Punjabi women to express themselves through movement and song. After the Partition in 1947, the dance continued on both sides of the border, in India and Pakistan. Over time, it has become a symbol of Punjabi culture and is now performed at staged events and competitions, both in Punjab and among Punjabi communities abroad. The dance has also spread through student groups in the UK, US, and Canada.

How is Giddha danced?

Women form a circle and clap in rhythm, moving with energy and flexibility. One woman leads by singing a boli, while the rest repeat the lines. The dance does not use drums; the clapping and singing set the pace. Movements are lively, with expressive gestures and coordinated steps. The group moves together, shifting weight and turning, but always maintaining the circle. The choreography highlights both individual flair and group unity.

The music of Giddha

Giddha is performed without drums. Instead, rhythmic clapping and singing provide the music. The songs are traditional folk verses, often led by an elder woman. The structure is call-and-response, with the lead singing a line and the group repeating it. The lyrics often reflect women's experiences and humour. The music is lively and matches the energetic movements of the dancers.

Costume and what is carried

Dancers wear bright salwar kameez or ghagra, traditional Punjabi outfits. Jewellery and folk ornaments are common, and a tikka is worn on the forehead. Hair is usually braided into two plaits. The overall look is colourful and festive, matching the joyful spirit of the dance.

When and where Giddha is danced

Giddha is performed at festivals, weddings, and social gatherings. It is a way for women to come together and celebrate. The dance is also featured in staged performances and competitions, especially since the 1960s. In the Punjabi diaspora, it is a way to keep cultural traditions alive.

Styles of Giddha

While the core form remains, Giddha has adapted to different settings. It is now performed in competitions and by student groups outside Punjab. The style may vary slightly depending on the region or the occasion, but the basic circle formation and call-and-response singing remain central.

What Giddha means

Giddha is seen as a key expression of Punjabi women's identity. It has become an iconic symbol of Punjabi culture, both in India and Pakistan. The dance is valued for its ability to bring women together and share stories. It is also a way for diaspora communities to connect with their heritage.

Questions people ask about Giddha

Good reading and sources

• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle

• Giddha on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos and video on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data
• Videos of Giddha on YouTubeSearch results, not chosen by Ghungroo