Lezim Dance

The upcoming Bollywood film Chhava, based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, has sparked controversy over a scene where the Maratha king is depicted performing the Lezim dance.

• Lezim dance is a traditional folk dance originating from Maharashtra, performed with a handheld instrument made of wood and metallic jingles.
• It is mainly performed during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi, marriage processions, and cultural celebrations, especially in Maharashtra and along the Konkan coast.
• The dance involves energetic movements, including stepping, squatting, and jumping, often in synchronized patterns.
• Instruments like the dhol or dhalgi accompany the dance, with occasional song additions.
• It represents community spirit and is practiced as physical exercise in schools across Maharashtra.