One of the most fascinating Indian classical dances is Tertali. Tertali or teratali art dance is performed by tribal groups in and around Assam, India. It’s a complex ritual with several forms of dance involved. It’s usually performed by a pair or a group of women who each sit on the floor facing each other. Manjiras are wrapped around various parts of the upper body.
Manjiras have been practiced for centuries in many parts of Asia, especially India. They’re now gaining popularity in India and have even made their way into mainstream karaoke. Tertali and the art form itself have found a number of fans in India. It’s a fascinating dance form that takes you deep into the body and imaginations of its audience. It’s one of the more difficult native dances to learn, but those who have studied it say it’s worth the effort.
Tertali is typically performed by the female part of a troupe, called the “mooli” in certain communities. It’s performed in a sacred temple or other significant location where outsiders aren’t allowed. Tribal performances of Tertali are often accompanied by drums and woodblocks as a further means of sound amplification. Tribal performances of Tertali have also been performed around the world, by groups of women, men and children.