Jhankaar Folk Dance Society

Dance Society

Jhankaar, the Indian Folk Dance Society of Janki Devi Memorial College, was established in January 2019 with the objective of promoting cultural awareness, inclusivity, and holistic student development through active engagement with India’s diverse folk traditions. The society functions as a platform for experiential learning, enabling students to understand regional cultures, indigenous art forms, and community traditions beyond the classroom. Jhankaar contributes to the preservation and dissemination of India’s intangible cultural heritage by showcasing lesser-known folk dance forms and encouraging student participation in cultural activities. The society fosters teamwork, leadership, discipline, creativity, and cultural sensitivity, thereby supporting the institution’s mission of all-round student development.

As a structured annual practice, Jhankaar curates and presents one distinct folk-dance form every year, ensuring regional representation and cultural diversity: In 2022, the society showcased Chhau, highlighting its vigorous movements and narrative expression rooted in eastern Indian folk traditions. In 2023, Gondhal, a ritualistic folk performance of Maharashtra, was presented, emphasizing the spiritual and performative dimensions of folk culture. In 2024, Yakshagana, the traditional dance-drama of Karnataka, was showcased, reflecting storytelling traditions, elaborate aesthetics, and performative discipline.

Through these activities, Jhankaar strengthens student participation in cultural extension activities and enhances institutional engagement with traditional art forms. The society also contributes to creating a vibrant campus culture, encouraging inclusivity, respect for diversity, and appreciation of regional identities. Jhankaar thus serves as a sustainable institutional initiative that integrates cultural education with student empowerment, reinforcing Janki Devi Memorial College’s commitment to quality education, cultural responsibility, and value-based learning.

Convenors: Dr. Shiwani Burnwal

Members: Dr. Deendyal, Dr. Shweta Singh

Student Representative: Ms Bhumi Singh (President) and Ms Suhani (Vice President)