Consider the following statements: Bagurumba is an indigenous classical dance of Assam officially recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi under its classical category. It is a heavily male-dominated martial dance accompanied by the playing of the Kham (a long drum) and the Siphung (flute). Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The correct answer is Option 4 . Key Points Statement 1: Bagurumba is NOT classified as an indigenous classical dance of Assam by the Sangeet Natak Akademi under its classical category. Bagurumba is a traditional folk dance of the Bodo community of Assam and is not included in the officially recognized classical dance forms of India. Hence, this statement is incorrect. Statement 2: Bagurumba is not a male-dominated martial dance. It is performed primarily by women and is celebrated for its elegant and graceful movements, inspired by nature such as birds, butterflies, and trees. The accompanying instruments include the Kham (a long drum) and the Siphung (flute), but it is not martial in nature. Hence, this statement is incorrect. The dance form is a celebration of culture and nature by the Bodo tribe and is primarily performed during the Bwisagu festival , marking the Assamese New Year. Both the statements in the question are factually incorrect. Hence, the correct answer is Option 4. Additional Information Bagurumba Dance: This dance is performed during the Bwisagu festival , a springtime festival celebrated by the Bodo community of Assam. The dance is characterized by its fluid and synchronized movements that represent natural elements , such as birds, butterflies, and trees. It is primarily performed by women , while men play the accompanying musical instruments, such as the Kham (long drum), Siphung (flute), and Jotha (cymbals). Sangeet Natak Akademi: The Sangeet Natak Akademi is India's national academy for music, dance, and drama, established in 1953 . It officially recognizes 8 classical dance forms in India: Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Mohiniyattam, Odissi, and Sattriya. Folk dances like Bagurumba are not included in this classification, as they are categorized as traditional or tribal dances. Bodo Tribe: The Bodo people are an indigenous community in Assam and are part of the larger Bodo-Kachari group. Their culture includes rich traditions of music, dance, and festivals like Bwisagu , which is a New Year celebration. They primarily speak the Bodo language , which is one of the 22 scheduled languages of India. Musical Instruments of Assam: Kham: A long drum played during dances and festivals. Siphung: A traditional bamboo flute. Jotha: Cymbals used to maintain rhythm in performances. Important Points Classical vs Folk Dances: Classical dances are recognized by institutions like the Sangeet Natak Akademi and have strict rules, codified techniques, and religious or spiritual significance. Folk dances, like Bagurumba, are community-based, with themes revolving around nature, festivals, and daily life . Festivals of Assam: Bihu: A series of three major Assamese festivals (Bohag, Kati, and Magh Bihu). Bwisagu: A New Year festival of the Bodo community, marked by dance and music.