'Banjar-Kekan' is a dance performed by which tribe of Assam?

The correct answer is Karbi . Key Points The 'Banjar-Kekan' is a significant traditional folk dance performed by the Karbi tribe, who primarily inhabit the state of Assam . In the Karbi language, the term 'Kekan' means dance , and 'Banjar' refers to a decorated bamboo stick used as a prop during the performance. This dance is often associated with social rituals and is a prominent feature during the Chomankan (the death ceremony of the Karbis), which is one of the most elaborate and important socio-religious festivals of the community. The performers, usually young men and women, move in rhythmic patterns to the beats of traditional instruments, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong districts. The dance serves as a medium to express social solidarity and respect for the ancestors within the Karbi society. Additional Information Karbi Tribe: Historically known as the Mikir , the Karbi people are a major ethnic group in Northeast India . They belong to the Tibeto-Burman linguistic group and their language is part of the Kuki-Chin subgroup. Apart from Banjar-Kekan , other famous dances include the Hacha-Kekan (harvest dance) and Nimso Kerung . Their major festivals include Rongker , an annual thanksgiving festival, and the Karbi Youth Festival , which is one of the oldest and largest ethnic festivals in India . Apatani: The Apatani tribe resides in the Ziro Valley of the Lower Subansiri district in Arunachal Pradesh . They are well-known for their unique wet rice cultivation techniques and sustainable forestry. Their major festivals are Dree (celebrated in July ) and Myoko (celebrated in March ). Hajong: The Hajong are a tribal group found in the states of Assam and Meghalaya , as well as in Bangladesh . They follow a mixture of Hinduism and traditional beliefs and are known for their proficiency in agriculture. They are categorized as a Scheduled Tribe in India . Kokna: The Kokna (or Kokni) tribe is primarily located in the western parts of India , specifically in Maharashtra and Gujarat . They have a distinct culture and are known for their Tarpa dance and Bhavada mask dance. Their language, Kokni , is a dialect influenced by Marathi and Gujarati . Important Points Chomankan Festival: This is an essential ritual for the Karbi tribe, lasting for four days and four nights . It is performed to guide the soul of the deceased to the afterworld (Chom-Arong). Demographics: The Karbi population is most concentrated in the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council area, which was established under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution to provide administrative autonomy to the tribe. Traditional Instruments: The music for Banjar-Kekan and other dances is provided by instruments like the Cheng (drum) and Muri (flute), which are integral to their cultural identity.