- Many indigenous cultures worldwide perform rain dances to invoke rainfall during dry seasons.
Sun Dances:
- Common among Native American tribes where participants engage in ceremonial dances to honor the sun and receive blessings.
Harvest Festivals:
- Different cultures celebrate with dances to express gratitude for a bountiful harvest.
Rites of Passage:
- Coming-of-age rituals and transitions like weddings and initiations often include dances.
Ancestor Veneration:
- Dances honor and connect with departed ancestors, paying homage to their wisdom.
Spirit Possession:
- Ritual dances induce trance-like states allowing individuals to communicate with spirits.
Healing Ceremonies:
- Certain ceremonial dances are believed to have healing properties, warding off evil spirits and promoting well-being.
War Dances:
- Before battles or hunts, some cultures perform ritual dances to instil courage and honour fallen warriors.
Initiation Rites:
- Entrance into secret societies, spiritual orders, or cultural groups may be marked with ceremonial dances.
Purification Rituals:
- Certain dances symbolize cleansing and purification of the body, mind, and spirit.