The Rise of 4Bet: A Popular Folk Dance From India

What is 4Bet?

4Bet is a traditional group folk dance that originated in the state of Bihar in India. It is a vibrant and energetic dance that is performed by both men and women, and is considered one of the most popular folk dances in the country. The name “4Bet” is derived from the Hindi word “chaar”, meaning four, as the dance requires four dancers to perform together in a synchronized manner.

4Bet: A Dance of Celebration

4Bet is a dance that is performed on various occasions and celebrations, such as weddings, festivals, and religious events. It is a way to express joy, happiness, and celebration in a lively and colorful manner. The dancers, usually dressed in traditional attires, move to the beats of the dhol (drum) and nagada (percussion instrument) while performing intricate footwork and hand movements.

History of 4Bet

The exact origin of 4Bet is unknown, but it is believed to have originated in the Bhojpur region of Bihar. It was traditionally performed by the Yadav community who were predominantly farmers and would perform the dance during harvest season as a way to celebrate and thank the gods for a good harvest. Over time, 4Bet spread to other parts of Bihar and became a popular dance form among other communities as well.

With the advent of Bollywood films, 4Bet gained more prominence and became popular not just in Bihar, but also in other states of India. Today, it is recognized as a significant form of Indian folk dance and has gained global recognition as well.

The Steps and Movements of 4Bet Aviator

4Bet aviator, also known as “Panchpuri” or “Jhakia”, is the most popular and widely performed version of 4Bet. It is a dance style that is characterized by quick and agile movements, along with complex footwork and hand gestures.

The dance begins with the dancers standing in a circular formation holding hands, and then they start moving in a circular motion to the beats of the dhol and nagada. As the music picks up tempo, the dancers perform intricate footwork with their feet tapping in synchronization. The dancers then break into pairs and perform various patterns and hand movements, symbolizing unity and love.

The highlight of 4Bet aviator is the fast-paced movement of the hands, which is known as “chauka”. The dancers make quick and precise movements of their hands, sometimes even clapping and tapping their partner’s hands in rhythm. The energy and coordination among the dancers are what make 4Bet aviator a spectacle to watch.

IPL 2019: When 4Bet Took Center Stage

In 2019, during the Indian Premier League (IPL), the world’s most significant cricket tournament, 4Bet took center stage and became a part of the opening ceremony. IPL is not just about cricket, but also about showcasing the different cultures and traditions of India. The organizers of IPL saw 4Bet as the perfect representation of the vibrant and diverse culture of India and decided to include it in their opening ceremony.

The performance was choreographed by renowned Bollywood choreographer, Shiamak Davar, and included over 200 dancers dressed in traditional Bihari attires. The performance was a visual treat, and it left the audience amazed and entertained.

IPL Auction 2025: The Future of 4Bet?

The inclusion of 4Bet in the IPL opening ceremony was a significant step towards promoting and preserving Indian folk dance. This has given rise to speculation that 4Bet may become a permanent feature in IPL in the future. In fact, during the IPL auction in 2025, there were talks about players from each team performing 4Bet aviator on the field before the start of the match.

If this does turn into reality, it will be a significant moment for 4Bet and Indian folk dance in general. It will not only bring more recognition and exposure to the dance form but will also help preserve this valuable cultural heritage.

In Conclusion

4Bet is not just a dance, but it is a representation of the rich and diverse culture of India. It is a dance that brings joy, celebration, and unity among people and is a reflection of the Indian way of life. With its popularity and recognition increasing worldwide, 4Bet is undoubtedly here to stay as one of the most well-known folk dances of India.

As we continue to see the fusion of traditional and modern forms of dance, let’s not forget the origins and significance of dances like 4Bet. We must do our part in preserving these beautiful art forms for future generations to come.