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Sinhtoo: A Folk Dance from Sirmaur Shines on National Stage at Republic Day Parade

In a groundbreaking move, the ancient folk dance Sinhtoo from the Hatti community of Himachal Pradesh was performed at the 76th Republic Day parade in New Delhi for the first time. This performance marked a momentous occasion for both the dance form and the Hatti community, bringing an endangered cultural tradition to the forefront of national celebrations.

A Cultural Gem from Sirmaur
Sinhtoo, a traditional mask dance, hailed from the remote Giri region in Sirmaur district, Himachal Pradesh, and was an integral part of the Hatti community’s cultural heritage. This mask dance was distinctive for its elaborate animal-themed costumes and performances that depicted wildlife conservation and environmental protection—a theme that resonated with current global concerns. The name “Sinhtoo” itself referred to a lion cub in the Pahari dialect, and performers often wore lion masks, taking center stage during the performance. The dance was characterized by rhythmic movements and an intricate interplay between the performers and their vibrant masks, which were crafted from wood, sawdust, and kidney bean dough.

Around 200 artists from Himachal Pradesh were selected to perform Sinhtoo as part of the grand cultural showcase titled “Jayati Jaya Mamah Bhartam,” which saw 5,000 artists from across India representing 45 different dance forms. This exceptional opportunity allowed the ancient folk tradition to be shared with a national audience for the first time.

A Dance of Heritage and Wildlife Conservation
Renowned Sinhtoo folk artist Joginder Habbi, who had dedicated his life to preserving and promoting the dance, expressed his excitement about the inclusion of Sinhtoo in the Republic Day celebrations. Habbi highlighted the significance of the dance in sending a message about the importance of wildlife conservation and environmental protection. He also shed light on the historical context of Sinhtoo, stating that the dance was in danger of extinction due to the evolving cultural landscape of the region and the shifting focus of younger generations away from traditional art forms.

The dance’s costumes and masks, which were once made from natural materials such as sheep wool (locally called pattu) and tree bark, had evolved over time. Today, woolen outfits and costumes made from torn pieces of cloth were more commonly used. Despite the changes, the core essence of the performance remained intact, and the inclusion of Sinhtoo in the national celebrations ensured that its legacy would be preserved and celebrated.

Recognition for the Hatti Community
The selection of Sinhtoo for the Republic Day parade was not only a cultural triumph but also a political milestone for the Hatti community. The community had long advocated for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for the people of Sirmaur. After decades of struggle, their demand was met when the central government granted the community ST status in 2023, followed by the Himachal Pradesh state government’s formal recognition in January 2024. The inclusion of Sinhtoo in the Republic Day celebrations was seen as a tribute to this victory and a means of showcasing the rich culture of the Hatti community to the rest of the nation.

A Historic Performance
Rakesh Kanwar, the Secretary of Language, Art, and Culture, further underscored the significance of this achievement. He noted that while the famous Natti dance of Himachal Pradesh, including regional variants like Sirmauri Natti and Kinnauri Natti, had been selected for Republic Day celebrations in the past, Sinhtoo held a special place this year due to its rarity and endangered status. This historic performance, which took place at the Republic Day parade in New Delhi, offered the Hatti community a platform to showcase their unique heritage and artistic traditions on a national stage.

The selection of Sinhtoo for this prestigious event was not just a recognition of an ancient folk dance but also a celebration of cultural diversity and the power of traditional art forms in modern India. As the Hatti community’s pride and joy took center stage at one of the country’s most significant celebrations, it served as a reminder of the importance of preserving and honoring our cultural heritage.

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