Folk Music of Goa

One of Goa's most discerning assets is its rich cultural heritage. Its natural beauty and hospitality together with this heritage has put Goa on the internatinal tourist map, and is acclaimed as one of the most popular tourist destination in the world. Music, dance and folklore are deeply rooted in the heart of Goans, and the rhythm runs in the blood of the people of Goa. Goan folklore, which comprises folk songs, dances, music, visual arts and folk tales, are rich in content and variety.

The folk music has devotional as well as contermporary overtones, and it displays a lively rhythm. And the folk dances reflect that rhythmic vitality. Folk songs and dances are accompanied by a variety of instruments such as Ghumot, Dhol, Cymbalsdrums, Flutes, Harmonium, Violins and Guitars.

Ghode Modhni, Mando, Dekhni, Goff, Talgadi, Shigmo, Tonyamel, Dhangar Dance, Mussal Khel, Jagor, Suvari, Fugdi, and Dhalo, Lamp Dance, Veerbhadra, and Kunbi songs and dances are some of the popular folk dances of Goa, and they are best performed during local festivals in their respective villages.

Mando: A love song. It represents the mingling of Indian and Western tradition. Monilem: A traditional folk dance presented by the backward community during Shigmo festival.

Mussal-Khel-Pestel Dance: A dance-cum-song in praise of valiant Kings. It also projects incidents in the village life of the times, Romat, Tonya Mel and Dhendio are some other folk dance forms.

Suvari Folk Music: It is a traditional tone setter to ail Hindu religious and festival performances. Talgadi: Folk dance performed by men-a social sophisticated, outdoor group dance for men. Taranga Mel: Banners mela of Farmers.

Tonyamel: Folk dance with sticks- A very vigorous and muscular group dance which is connected with the farm-folk celebrating the joys of good harvest.