Jara Dance - A celebration of mystery, tradition by Dagombas

Uudoubtedly, traditional dance plays an essential role in preserving cultural heritage and fostering community spirit.

It is not merely an art form but a living embodiment of the history, spirituality and identity of the people.

In the Northern Region, several interesting traditional dances have been preserved by the people from centuries ago.

One such dance is the Jara dance, which is a cherished cultural treasure among the Dagomba ethnic group.

Its origin is traced to a legendary hunter named Nanja, who, in a moment of curiosity, stumbled upon a hidden and magical dance during an expedition.

History has it that Nanja went for a hunting expedition in a tick forest and as the night fell, he chanced on a clearing where a group of dwarfs were dancing wildly around a large tree.

Their bodies were illuminated by flickering flames.

Hidden behind a tree, Nanja watched the scene keenly with shock.

Adorned with unique costumes and ornaments around their waists and ankles, the dwarfs danced, with each step in sync with the rhythmic beat.

It is narrated that as dawn approached, the dwarfs disappeared, leaving behind their costumes.

The hunter then collected the abandoned attire and returned to his village to share his experience.

Birth of dance

Eager to share the encounter, the hunter demonstrated the dwarfs' dance to his community members.

The Jara dance being performed during a workshop

Therefore, the Dagomba people adopted the dance and to date, Nanja’s name is invoked during each Jara performance, honouring his discovery and the dance’s mystical origins.

The dance is performed by a lead dancer, accompanied by other dancers and supported by drummers who double as chorus singers.

The dancers’ movements are highly symbolic, as they move their feet swiftly, twist their waists and form a circular motion around the drummers.

Beads and cymbal bells are tied around their waists and chins, adding to the dance's rhythm as they move forward and backwards in sync with the music.

The choreography of the Jara dance is deeply rooted in meaning, with each step representing strength, unity and the rich cultural heritage of the Dagomba people.

Once a ritualistic performance, it is now a prominent feature in festivals and other celebrations, thereby attracting spectators and fostering community pride.

Cultural Significance

In an interview with the Daily Graphic, a Traditional Historian, Abdulai Mohammed Mutala, said the Jara dance was not just a mere performance but a tradition representing unity, celebration and a deep connection to the past.

“Nanja was one of Dagbon’s great hunters and his legacy will always be preserved in our tradition, through this dance. The Jara dance is a timeless tribute to his story," he stated.

Beyond attracting tourists and fostering cultural exchange, Mr Mutala pointed out that the Jara dance was also benefiting some local performers economically through performances at events.

Many dancers in Tamale, like Issah Alhassan, earn a living through the performance of the dance.

“We don’t charge much because it’s our culture, but it has supported us a lot," he said.

Another dancer, Abibata Iddrisu, said she has been training several students on how to perform the dance, as part of efforts to preserve the rich historic tradition.

Writer's email: mohammed.fugu@graphic.com.gh