SSC Selection Post 2025 PYQ — Question 11

SSC Selection Post - Higher Secondary Level - 29th August 2025 - Shift 2 • General Awareness • Q11

Match the following traditional dances with the states they are performed in:

Column A (Dance Form) Column B (State)
A. Thiruvathira Kali 1. Odisha
B. Saila 2. Kashmir
C. Rouf 3. Kerala

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A

Explanation

Correct Answer

A-3, B-1, C-2

Explanation

The correct matching of the traditional dance forms with their respective states is explained below:

Thiruvathira Kali matches with 3 (Kerala). Thiruvathira Kali (also known as Kaikottikali) is a popular group dance performed by women in Kerala. It is traditionally performed during the harvest festival of Onam and the festival of Thiruvathira, celebrating marital bliss and womanhood.

Saila matches with 1 (Odisha). Saila is a traditional folk dance that is widespread across central India, including parts of Odisha and Chhattisgarh. Performed during the post-harvest season using sticks, it showcases rhythmic coordination and community joy.

Rouf matches with 2 (Kashmir). Rouf is an iconic folk dance practiced by the women of the Kashmir Valley. It is beautifully performed during festive occasions, especially during Eid and Ramzan, marked by synchronized footwork and traditional songs.

Therefore, the correct combination is A-3, B-1, C-2.

Key Points

Traditional folk and tribal dances reflect India's cultural diversity and are closely tied to regional agricultural cycles or religious festivals. While Classical dances (like Kathakali or Odissi) have strict grammatical rules, Folk dances (like Rouf or Saila) focus on community participation and celebration.

Important Questions and Answers

Question: Which classical dance form is native to the state of Kerala and known for its elaborate makeup and heavy costumes?

Answer: Kathakali (Mohiniyattam is also a classical dance from Kerala).

Question: What is the famous folk dance form of Jammu and Kashmir performed by men of the Wattal tribe?

Answer: Dumhal.