Lavani

In Mumbai, Mee Kaat Taakali  ( I ‘ve shed my skin ) had been organised in June 2012 to juxtapose the old style of lavani and the new style, where each style was represented by five dancers. Though there is an element of sensuality and many songs have double meanings, there is also an overwhelming grace and aesthetic beauty. Lavani should not be narrowed down to an item number. It has much more potential. It is an art form.

In traditional lavani, there was more emphasis on expressions and conveying a meaning to the audience. In modern lavani, words are not given importance. There is focus on fast moves. The fast style is more appealing.The interest to understand the nuances of the dance is decreasing. In the old style, the dancers would sing as they dance. The costumes are changed in modern performances more often. Lavani dancers followed the custom that  once the dancer ties a ghungharoo to her feet, she will not get married.

Sangeet Bari

Many lavani dancers would stay at the Sangeet Baree theatres and perform everyday. They would reside in the theatre premises till their contract would expire. Different groups called Sangeet parties would perform there. The last such Sangeet Bari theatre in Mumbai closed down in 1992.