Natti is the most popular form of mixed dance, which is performed in a circle. It is played on special occasions in
Himachal Pradesh. The group consists of 12 to 16 dancers, and they dress up in traditional costumes. As the dance progresses, any number of dancers can participate in it. A unique feature is that each dancer has ornate fan in one hand and a handkerchief in other. They clap as they dance.
Natti can be performed by the people of all ages. It is a slow-moving dance and lasts for three to four days. Generally, the dancers wear chola, Ghaghra skirt, gachi, lachhi and boomani. Silver chains, tight churidar pyjamas, socks and shoes are the other accompaniments. Women’s ornaments include heavy armlets and silver and gold jewels known as tunki and chanki.
This dance resembles
Kathak dance, and in Kullu it is referred to as Siraji Natti. The musical instruments used in performance of this dance are drums,
shehnai, cymbals and ranasinga, an instrument similar to trombone.
There are different kinds of Natti, and significant of them are Dhili Natti, Lahauli Natti, Bajuband, Kharhaya and Uzgazma. Each of them differs in its style, rhythm and steps.
