Find yourself in traditional dance - Sufi Whirling

India takes pride in its diversity and heritage. One of the main components of its rich cultural legacy which has been passed on from decade to decade is Sufi dances, although originally adapted from the Turks. The Sufis have always had a steady belief in celebration, and this is predominantly demonstrated in their dance form which is one of the most populous sacred dances in India. A few of which are as follows:

·         Gurdjieff movements

The name of the art form is derived from G.I Gurdjieff, an Armenian psychologist who believed that this collection of sacred dances would embody the calisthenics and aesthetic sensibility that elevated one’s body and mind. This came to be an integral part of the many sacred dances in India as he travelled the world spreading this art which combined the works of Thomas de Hartmann and came to be called the Gurdjieff movements. They all combine to form a collection of 39 parts, each with a different connotation. 

·         Sufi whirling

Sufi whirling dervish dances have a deep historic meaning in Sufi dance performances. It is said that the movements demonstrate the oneness of the body with the universe as the swirls unite the world with a state of individual consciousness. It is through something as simple as continuous turn that we are able to tap into our mind and see the reflection of our state of being. Sufi dances such as this enable us to step away from the sights of the world and recognize ourselves the way we are meant to be.

·         Odissi dances

Unlike the previous two Sufi dance performances, odissi has its roots from Orissa; this classical dance formation is one of the oldest to be still carried out in this day and age. The main component of these dances is embodying the delicate feminine form and presenting it in all its beauty. These dances have survived the test of time and have held ground through almost 2000 years of its existence. The movements and gestures tell stories of beauty and warmth, good enough for the gods to admire.

Just like everything about India, the dances too are like no other. Sufi dances step back from the loud, bright celebrations we all recognize the country by, into a calmer, and a deeper sense of inner rejoicing. Sufi culture gives admirers and participants alike something to take away each time they experience the enchanting and captivating dances of intense meditation.