Koli Dance is a popular dance form of the fishermen community of Kolis residing in the coastal areas of Maharashtra. Koli community is known for its distinct identity which also reflects in their dance. The dance weaves in aspects related to their lifestyle and occupation which is fishing. This lively dance helps the people of this community unwind after a hard day’s work and forget the many hardships that their occupation presents to them on a daily basis.

Performance

Koli dance is performed by both the men and womenfolk. They generally form a single line or stand in pairs. In one of the forms, the fisherman stand in a row holding their oars while the women form a separate row linking their arms and approaching the men folk in a tantalizing manner. As the rhythm of music reaches a crescendo, separation of the men and women gives away to them dancing in unison. One of the most important characteristics of this dance is the simulation of rowing of boats, the movement of waves and act of catching fish. The dance tends to vary in style depending on the region. Me Dolker, Aga Pori Sambhaal, Dol Doltai, Paru Go Paru and Valav Re Nakva are some of the popular songs that dancers perform to. The audience thoroughly enjoys this dance and shows their appreciation by whistling and a lot of merry making. Another variation of the Koli dance has the women jumping between sticks held by the men.

Costumes

While performing Koli dance, the women are generally dressed in green-colored saris that are draped up to their knee. On the other hand, the men wear lungis around their waists that form a triangular shape.