Raibenshe ( Bengali: রায়বেঁশে), alternatively, Raibeshe ( Bengali: রায়বেশে), is a genre of Bengali folk martial dance performed by male only. [1] This genre of dance was once very popular in West Bengal. Presently, it is performed mostly in Birbhum [2] Bardhaman and Murshidabad districts.
Traditionally, this dance involves vigorous and manly movements of the body along with the acrobatics of a raibansh (a long bamboo stick), from which its name originated. [3] During the performance, the performers enact the actions of drawing a bow, throwing a spear and waving a sword. [2] The performers wear a brass anklet (nupur) on their right ankle. This dance is accompanied by dhols (drums) and Kanshis (cymbals). [1] This dance was traditionally performed by Bagdi community, who worked as the bodyguards of the landlords in medieval Bengal. [3]