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What is Hallisalasya as depicted in Bagh cave paintings?
Explanation
The Bagh Caves, located in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh, contain mural paintings that are contemporary to those at Ajanta but are notably more secular in nature. In Cave 4, popularly known as the Rang Mahal, there is a famous depiction of a group of female dancers and musicians.
This specific scene represents Hallisalasya (also known as Hallisaka), which is a folk dance form performed in a circular formation (mandala). The painting shows a lead dancer in the center surrounded by women playing musical instruments like the mridanga (drums) and sticks. Historically, this dance is associated with the Krishna-Gopi tradition and is considered an early precursor to the Rasa Lila. It reflects the vibrant cultural and social life during the Gupta period.