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Ghoomra is a typical drum. It is just like a big pitcher
with a long stem made of clay. The mouth is covered with the skin of a
'Godhi' (a reptile). When played with both hands, it produces a peculiar
sound quite different from other varieties of drums.
The
dance performed to the accompaniment of this drum is called "Ghoomra
Nata". It begins fifteen days earlier of
'Gamha
Purnima" (full moon in September) and culminates on that night
in a ceremonial performance. Young men of various communities fix a
Ghoomra each on the chest with string tied the body simultaneously dance
and play.
The Performance
The performance begins will slow circular movements. The 'Nisan' is a
smaller variety of 'Kettledrum' played with two leather-sticks. The player
always places himself in the centre and controls the tempo of the dance.
He also indicates change over the movements. After a brief dance sequence
in different rhythmic patterns all the dancers move in a concentric circle
and then stand erect in a line. Then enters the singer who first sings in
praise of 'Saraswati' and other gods and goddesses. During the song the
drums remain silent.
After the prayer song 'Chhanda', 'Chaupadi' other literary folk songs are
sung. Each couplet of a song is followed by a dance-peace.