The Takai Dance - Symbol of unity, cultural heritage
The takai dance, literally meaning “to shame the devil and leave a legacy,” is a revered royal dance performed by chiefs and royals of Dagbon.
It embodies the spirit of unity, strengthens bonds among members of the Dagbon Kingdom, and fosters harmony with neighbouring tribes.
With roots tracing back to the early formation of the Dagbon Kingdom and a significant episode in its historical ties with the Mossi people, the takai dance remains a cherished cultural tradition.
Origin
According to oral tradition, during the formation of the Dagbon Kingdom, every grown man was expected to possess traditional attire and accessories as a mark of maturity.
Young men often dressed up in their finest costumes on market days and visited their loved ones while carrying walking sticks and accompanied by drummers.
They showcased their prowess by striking their sticks against each other in rhythmic movement.
Another legend recounts a conflict between the Dagombas and the Mossi people during which news emerged that a Dagbon princess had gone missing.
The kingdom launched a vigorous search, amidst drumming and singing as they called out her name.
Eventually, a Mossi hunter found the princess in the bush. The people declared: “We have to shame the devil and leave a legacy that would promote unity among ourselves and with other tribes.”
From that episode, the takai dance was embraced as a lasting cultural symbol.
Performance
The takai is performed in a circular formation with drummers at the centre.
At intervals, takai dancers strike their rods against those of the dancer in front of them
Dancers move in a spirited yet dignified manner, each holding a metal rod in the right hand.
At intervals, they strike their rods against those of the dancer in front of them, producing sharp percussive sounds that blend seamlessly with the drumming.
As the dancers turn, their flowing traditional costumes and knee-high boots accentuate steps reminiscent of tap dancing or clogging.
The metallic rhythm, combined with the drumming, creates a dynamic and engaging atmosphere that captivates both participants and spectators.
Experience
A dancer, Yahaya Mohammed Zaki, explained that each participant becomes deeply immersed in the joyous moment of the dance, which symbolises unity.
He noted that in earlier times, the dance was primarily about cultural identity and preserving unity within Dagbon.
“Today, some groups perform takai as a source of income, but beyond the financial aspect, the cultural value must remain central,” he stressed.
Another dancer, Issahaku Alhassan, added that the takai is performed during festivals and official occasions to showcase Dagbon’s heritage and to share cultural pride with other ethnic groups.
He encouraged the youth to learn the dance to preserve it for future generations, warning that neglect could lead to the loss of such valuable traditions.
He further urged traditional authorities and stakeholders to invest in cultural performances to sustain their relevance and identity.
Cultural significance
In an interview with the Daily Graphic, a historian, Abdulai Mohammed Murtala, described the takai dance as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Dagomba people, highlighting its role in promoting unity, tradition, and community.
“Our traditional dances, especially takai, are integral to Dagbon’s cultural identity.
They reflect our history and the relationships we have built with others. When tradition brings people together, it becomes difficult to divide them,” he explained.
He emphasised that Dagombas were peace-loving people, and cultural dances such as takai must always project unity and harmony. He urged traditional leaders to ensure the youth are trained in cultural values to prevent their erosion.
Mr Murtala also appealed to the Ghana Education Service (GES) to incorporate cultural dances into the school curriculum to uphold the dignity of African traditions and preserve cultural identity for future generations.
