ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the meanings that members of tribal communities in Assam ascribe to their folk dances. Through a series of interviews with people from the Mishing, Karbi, Tiwa, and Deori ethnic groups, an ethnographic profile of the people and their dances is built. The chapter considers each group's ethnic identity and provides a discussion of the specific dance forms of each community. Identity revivalism through dance is discussed, reflecting on the rejuvenation of cultural values in social spaces. Concern is expressed regarding the danger of commercialisation of dance forms.
