Paika is a ceremonial martial dance of
Jharkhand and
Bihar. It is performed by male dancers by employing traditional weapons such as sword and shield. The performers reach the climax with the fast beat of mandal.
In ancient times, it was played by paikas, the traditional warriors who struggled for their kingdom. The descendents of these warriors are spread over in the rural areas of Jharkhand and Bihar, and most of them maintain this traditional dance.
Presently, it is generally performed during weddings and festivals. Dholak, nagara, shehnai and dhak drums are the musical instruments in accompaniment of this dance.
