Kachhi Ghori Dance, also known as Dummy Horse Dance, is an indigenous dance form of
Rajasthan. It is usually performed to entertain the bridegroom's party. This dance depicts a battle scene involving soldiers riding on horses.
The horses used in these dances are made from two small bamboo sticks tied together, with a basket each attached to the two ends. This structure, along with an artificial horse head attached to it, is covered with proper cushioning and decorative clothing or paper. A horse is attached to the dancer’s waist in such a manner, that it seems he is actually riding it. The dancers dress themselves like bridegrooms.
This vigorous dance incorporates rows of dancers waving colorful pennants. The dancers perform this dance by moving in circles, trying to strike each other with a sword. This dance looks like a virtual battle with the use of the horses, swords and shields. The movements of these performers are jerky and angular. The stories of local heroes are narrated by a ballad singer.
Kucchi Ghodi had its origins in the dacoit regions of Shekhawati.
