Introduction and History

Saitam, Saila dance is a traditional folk dance of the Mawasi tribe of Madhya Pradesh, which is an important part of their cultural identity. This dance is mainly practiced in the areas of Vindhya and Satpura mountain ranges of Madhya Pradesh, where the people of the Mawasi tribe reside.

Historical Context and Origin

Saitam, Saila dance is an ancient folk dance of the Mawasi tribe of Madhya Pradesh, which is an important part of the cultural heritage of this region. This dance originated in the areas of Vindhya and Satpura mountain ranges of Madhya Pradesh, where the population of the Mawasi tribe mainly resides.The main objective behind the origin of the dance was to promote unity and community spirit among the tribal community. Saitam Saila dance was traditionally performed during agricultural and hunting seasons, especially during harvest and wildlife hunting. On these occasions, the entire community gathered, and the dance formed an integral part of their celebrations and religious rituals.Taalking about the historical background, Saitam Saila dance has been associated with the customs and religious beliefs of the Mawasi tribe since ancient times. This dance was performed especially during the worship of tribal deities and ancestors. It was considered a symbol of collectivity and community celebration in the Mawasi society. The style and tunes of this dance are inspired by nature, which has a wonderful incorporation of the sounds of mountains, rivers, and forests.Saitam Saila dance has deep roots in the cultural life of the Mawasi tribe. For them, this dance is not just a means of entertainment, but a reflection of their life, culture and religious beliefs. Over time, the style of this dance has also changed, but its traditional spirit and cultural significance still remains intact.

Details regarding the Mawasi people

The Mawasi tribe is a major tribal tribe of Madhya Pradesh, which is an integral part of the cultural and social heritage of the region. The life of the Mawasi tribe, their traditions, and their cultural activities reflect the tribal diversity of this state. The Mawasi tribe mainly resides in the areas of Vindhya and Satpura mountain ranges of Madhya Pradesh. The main habitat of the Mawasi tribe is mainly Junnardev and Saunsar area of ​​​​Chhindwara district. They may have also migrated to other places like Satna, Rewa, Shahdol district for work. This tribe lives in areas around forests and hills, which is the main basis of their livelihood. The Mawasi tribe has its own unique language, called "Mawasi Boli" or Mawasi Parsi. This language is influenced by other tribal languages, but it has its own uniqueness and cultural sound. The people of the Mavaasi tribe also use Hindi and other local languages, but their mother tongue is a major part of their cultural identity.

Dance Features

Saitam, Saila dance is a unique and important part of the cultural heritage of the Mavaasi tribe, which is unique because of its features. This dance is not only known for its distinctive style and postures, but also has deep social, cultural, and religious significance.

Important Features

1. Group Dance Style: Saitam, Saila dance is a group dance in which men and women participate together. The dance is performed in a circular or semicircular group where all the dancers are in sync with the same rhythm and movement. This collectiveness reveals the community spirit of the Mavaasi tribe.
2. Movements Inspired by Nature: The basis of all types of dance is connected to nature. The body gestures of the dancers, hand gestures, and foot movements are all inspired by natural elements such as the waves of the river, the greenery of the trees, and the stillness of the mountains. This dance reflects the deep connection of the people of the tribe with nature.
3. Simplicity of rhythm and beat: The rhythm and beat used in Saitam, Saila dance is simple and regular, which makes the dance attractive to watch and perform. The dance generally uses a slow to medium tempo, which gradually becomes faster. The dancers express their emotions and faith through rhythm and beat.

Important dance styles and variants

Saitam, Saila dance is an integral part of the cultural heritage of the Mavaasi tribe, which is particularly important because of its diversity and many forms. Different forms and variations of this dance have evolved according to different occasions, religious rituals, and social gatherings of the tribe. Here is a description of some of the major forms of Saitam Saila dance and their variations:

1. Utsavdharmi Saitam Saila: This is the most popular and common form of Saitam Saila dance, which is mainly performed during various festivals such as harvest, weddings, and other community gatherings. In this form, the dance speed and energy is high, and it is more lively. In Utsavdharmi Saitam Saila, the dancers wear traditional costumes and jewellery, and it is performed in groups.
2. Religious Saitam Saila: This form is performed during religious and spiritual rituals. In religious Saitam Saila, the dance rhythm and beat is slow, and its purpose is to worship the gods and ancestors. In this form, the dancers express devotion and faith through their expressions and postures. In religious Saitam Saila, the tunes of the instruments and the dance postures create a special religious atmosphere.
3. Hunting-based Saitam Saila: Hunting occupies an important place in the life of the Mavaasi tribe, and in this context a special form of Saitam Saila has evolved. This dance depicts various aspects of hunting, such as preparation for the hunt, chasing the prey, and celebrating the hunt. The postures and gestures of the dance depict the experiences during the hunt, and this dance is mainly performed after a successful hunt.

Typical Steps and their explanation

A major part of the beauty and uniqueness of Saitam Saila dance lies in the dance steps used in it. These steps are inspired by the cultural heritage and natural surroundings of the Mawasi tribe. Here is a description of some of the major steps of Saitam Saila dance:

1. Chakrapad (Circular Step): Chakrapad is a major step of Saitam Saila dance, in which the dancers dance in a circular shape holding each other's hands. This step reflects unity and collectivity in the group. The dancers step together, and move in a circle. This step reflects the collective life and circular structure of the tribal community, which symbolizes their unity.
2. Ardhachandrapad (Semicircle Step): In Ardhachandrapad, the dancers stand in a semicircular shape and dance. In this step, the dancers move in rhythm by raising their hands while bending back and forth. This step is inspired by the shape of the moon, and is performed during special religious and cultural rituals.
3. Turupad Sanchalan (Fast Steps): Turupad Sanchalan is a fast paced movement in which the dancers dance with quick and energetic steps. The exchange of steps is rapid and the dancers express their energy and enthusiasm. This movement expresses the excitement and joy of hunting or festive time.

Rhythm and beat

The soul of Saitam Saila dance lies in its rhythm and beat. Rhythm and beat have special importance in this traditional dance form of the Mwasi tribe as they determine the pace, expression and overall performance of the dance. Through rhythm and beat, dancers not only express their art but also reveal their inner emotions and collective consciousness.

Knowing the Taal and Rhythm of Dancing

1. Importance of Rhythm: Rhythm is the main means of expressing the emotions of the dancers through each dance step and gesture. The ups and downs of the rhythm in Saitam Saila dance reflect the liveliness of the dance, which reveals the inner enthusiasm and collective energy of the dancers. Rhythm is deeply connected to the cultural and religious traditions of the Mwasi tribe. It reflects their social structure and their symbiosis with nature. For example, slow and calm rhythms of dance are performed during religious rituals, while fast and energetic rhythms are prevalent in festivals and mass gatherings.
2. Understanding Rhythm: Rhythm in Saitam Saila dance is a structured and regular sound pattern, which controls the speed and direction of the dance. Rhythm is used uniformly from the beginning to the end of the dance, binding the movements of the dancers in harmony. Each taal has a specific time, which the dancers have to perform in sync with their steps and postures. The main purpose of taal in Saitam Saila dance is to maintain unity among the dancers. All the dancers move to the same rhythm, which creates harmony and unity among them. Correct adherence to the taal gives the dance an organized and balanced form. Various traditional musical instruments are used to maintain the rhythm. Dhol, Manjira, and other tribal instruments provide life to the rhythm and tempo of the dance. These instruments not only produce sound, but also keep the dancers aware of the time and rhythm.
3. Innovation in Rhythm and Beat: Although traditional rhythm and beat have an important place in Saitam, Sailam dance, some innovations have also been seen in it over time. In modern times, some dancers and artists are incorporating new instruments and sounds with traditional rhythm, giving the dance a new and refreshing look.

Various Taal Types and Their Applications

Taal plays an important role in Saitam Saila dance as it governs the structure, rhythm and tempo of the dance. Taal helps to accommodate the various positions and emotions of the dance and contributes to the overall expression of the dance. Here is a description of the different types of Taal used in Saitam Saila dance and their use:

1. Vilambit Taal (Slow Taal): Vilbit Taal is a slow-paced Taal in which the dancers dance with slow and steady steps. This Taal is used at the beginning of the dance or to express meditation and spiritual feelings. This Taal is especially used during religious rituals and prayers. When the dancers pay homage to the deities or ancestors, this Taal is used to express their emotions deeply. In this Taal, the steps of the dancers are in a certain rhythm, which helps to calm and steady the mind.
2. Madhyam Taal: The tempo of Madhyam Taal is neither too slow nor too fast. In this, the dancers dance with balanced and steady steps according to the rhythm. This rhythm is rhythmic and lively, which controls the pace of the dance. Madhyam Taal is used in general social and cultural events, where the purpose of the dance is to entertain and promote togetherness. This rhythm is used during harvest festivals, marriages, and group songs, where the attention of both the dancers and the audience is focused on the rhythm of the rhythm.
3. Tej Taal: Tej Taal is energetic and passionate, in which the dancers move quickly and the pace of the dance intensifies. This rhythm is used to express the enthusiasm and passion of the dance. Tej Taal is mainly used during festivals, celebrations of successful hunting, and other joyous occasions. In this rhythm, the energy and enthusiasm of the dancers is at its peak, and they express their happiness and excitement through the dance. The fast rhythm increases the speed of the steps and the pace of the dance, which also brings enthusiasm to the audience.

Costumes and Instruments

The costumes used in Saitam, Saila dance not only enhance the aesthetics of the dance but also symbolize the cultural heritage and traditions of the Mavaasi tribe. Over time, some modern elements have been added to the dance costumes, but the importance of traditional costumes remains even today.

Costumes: Traditional and Modern

1. Traditional Costumes:

Traditional Costumes for Men:

• Dhoti and Turban: Traditionally, male dancers wear dhoti in Saitam, Saila dance. Dhoti is white or light colored and is tied from the waist down. Dhoti is wrapped in such a way that it maintains the mobility of the dancer during the dance.
• Turban: Turban tied on the head is the identity of Mavaasi men. This turban is in special colors and designs, which reflect their cultural identity and social status. Peacock feathers or other decorative elements are also added to the turban.
• Jewellery: Male dancers wear traditional jewellery, which includes bangles on the wrist, necklace around the neck, and earrings in the ears. These jewellery are inspired by folklore and tribal culture and add to the traditionalism of the dance.

Traditional Attire of Women:

• Lugda or Sari: Women traditionally wear Lugda (sari-like garment), which is the traditional dress of the Mawasi tribe. It is tied specially, so that there is ease of movement during the dance. Lugda is usually colourful, and has traditional embroidery and designs.
• Blouse: The blouse worn with Lugda is simple and close to the body, so that women can move comfortably during the dance.
• Jewellery: Women wear traditional jewellery such as heavy bangles, Nath, Maangtika, Kamarband, and anklets on the feet. These ornaments not only enhance beauty but also symbolize their social and cultural identity.

2. Modern Costumes:

With time, modern elements have also been included in the costumes of Saitam, Saila dances. Although the form of traditional costumes is still intact, some modern changes are also seen in them.

Changes in clothing:

• Clothing material: Now along with traditional clothing, synthetic and new types of clothing are also used, which are light and durable. These clothes are more comfortable during dance.
• Design and Pattern: New designs and patterns have been included in modern costumes, which present a confluence of traditional and modernity. Embroidery, prints, and other decorative elements are also used in them.

Changes in Jewelry:

• Modern Jewelry: Now dancers wear light and modern jewelry along with traditional jewelry, which are more comfortable during dance. The use of silver and artificial jewelry has increased in these.
• Decorative Costumes: In modern times, dancers have also started using decorative costumes and jewellery, which reflect modernity along with the traditional look.

Features of the Costumes and Their Importance to Culture

Saitam, Saila dance costumes are not just a symbol of beauty; they also symbolize the deep cultural heritage and traditions of the Mavaasi tribe. The characteristics of these costumes and their cultural significance are clearly reflected during the dance.

1. Characteristics of the Costumes:

• Traditional Designs and Colors: The colors used in the traditional costumes of Saitam Saila dance are highly symbolic. For example, white color symbolizes purity and sobriety, while red color represents life, energy, and strength. These colors are associated with the cultural beliefs and religious notions of the Mavaasi tribe. The traditional costumes have hand embroidery and traditional patterns that reflect the tribal art and culture. They feature designs of natural elements such as trees, leaves, and flowers, which reflect the deep connection of the Mavaasi tribe with nature.
• Design of the Costumes: The dancers in Saitam, Saila dance wear loose and comfortable clothing that does not restrict their movement during the dance. The loose dhoti for men and the lugra or sari for women maintain comfort. The costumes are accompanied by traditional jewellery, such as bangles, nose rings, and anklets, which produce a special sound during the dance. These ornaments not only enhance the beauty but also symbolize cultural identity and community pride.

2. Cultural Significance:

• Symbol of Community Identity: The costumes of Saitam, Saila dance preserve the cultural heritage of the Mavaasi tribe. The designs and patterns of these costumes symbolize the age-old traditions and beliefs that maintain the community identity of the tribe. The costumes of the dancers also reflect their social and religious status. For example, costumes and jewellery worn on special occasions symbolize the role and status of the individual in the Mavaasi society.

Main Instruments and Their Identification

1.  Mandal: Mandal is a major instrument used as the main rhythm instrument in Saitam, Saila dance.
2. Timki: Timki is a small drum like instrument played by hand. It is circular in shape with leather surface on one side only.
3. Harmonium: Harmonium is a major instrument in Saitam and Saila dance which provides melody and rhythm. Its melodious sound highlights the emotional aspects of the dance.
4. Dhol: Dhol is the heartbeat of Saitam and Saila dance which provides rhythm and pace to the dance. Its resonant sound inspires the dancers to dance enthusiastically.
5. Flute: The melodious tunes of the flute create a pleasant and spiritual atmosphere in Saitam and Saila dance. Its melodious tunes add gentleness and musical depth to the dance.

Conservation and Modern Influences

Saitam Saila dance, which is an important part of the cultural heritage of the Mavaasi tribe, is a very important topic of conservation of traditional styles and methods. In this section we will discuss the importance of conservation of traditional styles and methods, current challenges and measures to protect it.

Preservation of Conventional Approaches and Styles

Importance of Traditional Styles and Methods

The traditional dance styles of the Mavaasi tribe of Madhya Pradesh are an integral part of their cultural heritage. These dance styles play an important role in social, religious and cultural festivals. Let us understand them in detail:

1. Saitam : Saitam is a group dance performed especially during festivals and celebrations. This dance strengthens unity and social ties among the local tribal communities. The dancers perform with a special rhythm and music. The dancers use traditional instruments like dhol, flute and gudugu. The dance has very restrained tempo and rhythm, and a certain pattern is repeated over and over again. Saitam is mainly performed during harvest season, weddings, and other cultural festivals. The dance is seen as a symbol of happiness and prosperity of the community.
2. Nattuwa : The Nattuwa is a colourful and vibrant dance usually performed on religious occasions and festivals. The dancers are decked in traditional costumes and jewellery. The dancers often wear bright and colourful clothing. The dance is performed with great enthusiasm and energy, with the dancers creating intricate and attractive patterns. The Nattuwa is especially performed during religious fairs and festivals. The dance is an integral part of religious rituals and cultural festivals.
3. Katha :  The Katha dance drama is a special type of dance in which religious or social stories are presented through dance. This dance form is based on the performance of stories and folklore. The dancers dress up as different characters and depict different parts of the narrative through dance and acting. The dancers bring the narrative alive with traditional songs and music. Narrative dance is performed at religious festivals, special occasions and cultural presentations. This dance is not only a means of entertainment but also an important medium of cultural education.

Current Challenges

• Urbanization and Modernity: Due to the increasing influence of urbanization and modernity, traditional styles and methods are gradually becoming extinct. A lack of interest in traditional art and dance is being observed among the younger generation. Due to modern lifestyle and changes in the way of life, the relevance of traditional dance and cultural practices is decreasing.
• Economic and Social Barriers: There is a lack of resources and facilities required for traditional dance and cultural programs. As a result, traditional styles and methods are not being preserved. Lack of necessary support and encouragement from the society for traditional art and dance is also a big challenge.

Conservation Measures

• Educational Initiatives: Education and training programmes are needed to preserve traditional styles and methods. Traditional dance and art courses should be introduced in schools and cultural institutions. Organising workshops and training sessions can provide artists and youth with in-depth knowledge and training in traditional styles.
• Community and Government Support: It is important to involve the local community in the preservation of traditional styles and methods. Community members can actively participate in traditional events and ceremonies.
• Media's influence and role in education :Saitam Saila Dance, an important part of the cultural heritage of the Mawasi tribe, can be preserved and promoted through education and media. In this section we will see how education can play an important role in promoting this traditional dance form and how media can contribute to its preservation and dissemination.

Role in Education

• Inclusion of traditional dance in the curriculum: Saitam Saila dance can be made a part of the curriculum in schools, colleges, and universities. Inclusion of this art form as a traditional dance in the art and culture curriculum can provide students with a deeper understanding and knowledge of it. When students understand the history, technique, and cultural significance of this dance, they remain connected to their cultural heritage and try to take it forward.

Impact of Media

• Promotion of traditional dance: Saitam Saila dance can be promoted to a wider audience by sharing its performances and videos on social media, YouTube, and other digitaal platforms. This increases the popularity of the dance and motivates people to explore and learn more about it. The culture and history of Saitam Saila dance can be brought to the public through special programmes and documentaries on TV and radio. This increases awareness about this dance in the society and efforts are made towards preserving it.
• Including Contemporary Components in the Dance: Saitam Saila dance, which is a symbol of the traditional cultural heritage of the Mawasi tribe, has been witnessing new changes and incorporation of modern elements over time. In this section, we will discuss various aspects of the incorporation of modern elements in this dance, and how these changes keep it relevant as well as preserve the traditional values.

Incorporation of Modern Music and Melodies

• Fusion of Traditional and Modern Music: The incorporation of modern music styles such as pop, jazz, and electronic music with traditional melodies in Saitam Saila dance gives a new direction. This modification and refinement increases the appeal of the dance and makes it more interesting for the new generation. The combination of traditional and modern music helps to present this dance on a global platform, thereby propagating its cultural heritage.
• Digitaal Music and Remixes: The sounds of traditional instruments can be modified with the use of digitaal music devices and software. The use of remixes and electronic beats brings novelty to Saitam, Saila dance. The use of modern sounds in stage performances enriches the dance experience, making the experience more intense and impactful for both the audience and the performers.

Conclusion and Evaluation

Review of the Main Ideas and Methods

Saitam, Saila dance, a major dance form of the Mawasi tribe of Madhya Pradesh, exhibits the deep roots and rich heritage of tribal culture. A wonderful amalgamation of various traditional and cultural aspects is seen in this dance, making it a unique and important dance form. Reviewing the key points and techniques of Saitam, Saila dance deepens our understanding of its significance and its preservation.Saitam, Saila dance originates from the cultural traditions of the Mawasi tribe. This dance is an integral part of festivals, religious rituals and social gatherings of mainly rural and tribal communities. The performers participating in this dance wear traditional costumes, which include specially designed clothing and jewellery. The purpose of this dance is not only entertainment but it also strengthens community unity and cultural identity.The most important feature of Saitam, Saila dance is its rhythm and beats. The combination of rhythm and beats in this dance gives rise to a unique style, which sets it apart from other dance forms. During the dance, the performers display agility and energy of specially designed feet. The steps and movements of the dance are associated with a particular type of rhythm and beat, which makes it a lively and energetic dance form.