Why in the News?
A Sikh Nagar Kirtan or religious procession in South Auckland, New Zealand, was recently protested through the performance of a traditional haka dance.
About Haka Dance
- Haka is a traditional ceremonial dance of the Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand.
- It is characterised by vigorous movements, rhythmic stamping, hand gestures, and chanting.
- A key feature is pūkana, which refers to intense facial expressions including widened eyes and protruding tongue.
- Haka is not a single dance. It varies by tribe (iwi) and region, with each haka often narrating stories of ancestry, warfare, achievements, or important historical events.
Global Recognition
- Gained worldwide fame after being adopted as a pre match ritual by New Zealand’s national rugby team, the All Blacks, in the early 20th century.
- In November 2024, haka drew global attention when two lawmakers performed it inside the New Zealand Parliament to protest against a proposed bill.
Prelims Pointers
- Haka is not always a war dance. It also conveys respect, mourning, and celebration.
• It is a key expression of intangible cultural heritage of the Māori people.
• Facial expressions and vocalisation are as important as physical movements.
| With reference to the famous Sattriya dance, consider the following statements: (2024)
1. Sattriya is a combination of music, dance and drama. 2. It is a centuries-old living tradition of Vaishnavites of Assam. 3. It is based on classical Ragas and Talas of devotional songs composed by Tulsidas, Kabir and Mirabai. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 only |
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