Sinhtoo Dance to Debut at Republic Day Parade 2025

January 25, 2025

The Sinhtoo dance, a traditional folk dance of the Hatti community from the Giri region of Sirmaur district, has been selected for the 76th Republic Day parade in Delhi. This marks the first time the Sinhtoo will be showcased at such a prestigious national event. Approximately 200 artists will perform this unique dance, which is part of a larger cultural programme featuring 5,000 artists from across India.

About Sinhtoo Dance

Sinhtoo is a mask dance where performers wear intricately crafted masks representing various animals.
The term “Sinhtoo” translates to “lion cub” in the Pahari dialect, which explains the prominence of lion masks in the performance.
The dance aims to celebrate wildlife and raise awareness about environmental conservation.

Historical Context and Evolution

Traditionally, the costumes for Sinhtoo were made from sheep’s wool and tree bark.
Over the years, these materials have evolved into woollen outfits and cloth scraps.
The masks were originally crafted from wood and natural materials but have since adapted to include more modern elements.

Cultural Significance and Advocacy

The Hatti community has sought Scheduled Tribe (ST) status since 1967.
Their efforts were realised in 2023 when the central government granted this status.
The selection of Sinhtoo for the Republic Day parade is seen as a celebration of Hatti culture and a step towards greater recognition.

Preparation and Performance Details

Currently, 500 artists from Himachal Pradesh are rehearsing for the event, with 200 specifically preparing for the Sinhtoo performance. The choreography for the parade is overseen by Dr. Sandhya Purecha, President of the Sangeet Natak Akademi. The performance is set to be recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records for its scale and cultural representation.

Broader Cultural Context

The inclusion of Sinhtoo marks the diversity of Indian folk traditions. It serves to educate the public about lesser-known art forms and their significance. The performance will also showcase other Himachali dances, further enriching the cultural tapestry of the event.

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