Dhimsa — quick questions
Short answers to the questions people actually ask — each linking to the full page.
What is Dhimsa?
A traditional circle dance of the hill tribes of the Araku Valley region: dancers link arms in a chain and move to drum rhythms. The name is usually explained as the sound of dancing footsteps. More →
Which state is it from?
Andhra Pradesh is its modern home — especially the Araku Valley — with origins traced across the border in Odisha's Koraput hills. More →
Who dances it?
Communities including the Porja, Bagata, Valmiki, Khond, Kotia, Gadaba and Kondadora — mainly women, with men joining several varieties. More →
How many varieties are there?
Traditionally twelve — Boda, Gunderi (Usku), Goddi Beta, Bhag, Natikari, Pedda and others; lists vary. More →
What instruments are used?
Tudumu and dappu drums, the mori horn, kiridi and gilka, plus call-and-response song. More →
What was the Guinness record?
~13,000 schoolgirls dancing Dhimsa at Bhogapuram on 1 August 2026 for the new airport's inauguration — the largest Dhimsa performance ever. More →
Where can I see it?
Araku Valley: the coffee museum's daily evening show, the tribal museum, and village festivals in March–April. More →
Last updated: 2026-08-04