Jhumar is a dance form native to
West Bengal. This dance is performed by either men or women depending on the occasion.
During the Hindu month of Chaitra (March-April), men perform this dance. The performance is accompanied by music provided with drums and cymbals. Women perform Jhumar in the fields, while planting the rice seedlings. This variety of Jhumar, performed by the women, is called Ashariya Jhumar. This dance is accompanied by songs mentioning the immortal love of Lord Krishna with Radha.
The Jhumar dance has undergone many changes through the ages, with the basic tune remaining intact.
Jhumar is performed in different parts of the country in different form. Punjab has a distinct variety of Jhumar.
