Haryana Folk Dance Troupe Heads to Ziro Festival

Sep 26, 2025 | Haryana

In a vibrant display of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat,” the soul of rural Haryana is traveling 2,500 kilometers to the misty hills of Arunachal Pradesh. A 15-member cultural contingent was flagged off today to perform at the 11th edition of the Ziro Festival of Music.

  • Cultural Fusion: While the Ziro Festival is primarily known for indie-rock and electronic music, it has increasingly become a hub for folk exchange. The Haryanvi troupe will perform during the daytime Donyi (Sun) Stage, which is dedicated to traditional and acoustic performances from across India.

  • Key Performances Planned:

    • Dhamal Dance: A high-energy performance dating back to the Mahabharata era, traditionally performed by men during the harvest season.

    • Ghoomar: The graceful, swirling dance of Haryanvi women, showcasing the state’s colorful hand-loomed ghagras.

    • Phag: A celebratory dance associated with the Holi festival, known for its playful and rhythmic nature.

  • Global Audience: The festival attracts thousands of international tourists and music aficionados. By sending a professional troupe, the Haryana government aims to promote cultural tourism and provide a platform for local artists to interact with global independent musicians.

  • Sustainability Meets Tradition: Since the Ziro Festival is a “zero-plastic” event with stages built entirely of local bamboo, the Haryanvi artists have been briefed to use traditional handmade instruments and sustainable props, aligning with the festival’s eco-conscious ethos.