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UPSC CSE Pre. 1999

Indian Folk Traditions

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which one of the following pairs of folkdance forms and States is not correctly matched?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept Folk dances in India are deeply rooted in regional culture, agriculture, and tribal heritage, often performed during specific festivals or social gatherings.

Explanation Thali is a traditional folk dance practiced in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, particularly during the Onam festival. It is not native to Himachal Pradesh.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Thali involves female dancers wearing circular metal plates (thalis) and symbolizes marital prosperity. Pair C is thus incorrect.
Logic 2: Korku is a tribal dance of the Korku community in Maharashtra and MP. Jhumar is a harvest dance found in Punjab/Haryana. Mukna is a rhythmic wrestling-dance hybrid unique to Manipur.

Active Recall

Question

What distinguishes Mukna from other folk dances?

Answer

Mukna is unique because it integrates the techniques of traditional wrestling with rhythmic performance art.

Core Insight

Folk dances like Thali often utilize domestic objects as ritualistic symbols of domestic well-being and auspiciousness.

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