Expressive Forms of Women's Dance in Hassani Society (Tindouf)

Abstract

This study examines the expressive forms of women's dance in Hassani society in Tindouf from an anthropological perspective, considering dance as a cultural practice that embodies a rich system of symbols associated with identity, collective memory, and social relations. It analyzes both traditional and contemporary dances, including Qaṭāya, Lablīda, Sharʿa, Aqsār, Shamra, Hawdaj, and Taghanja, highlighting their social and symbolic functions in expressing war, fertility, beauty, femininity, and tribal belonging. The study further emphasizes the central role of the body, hand and finger movements, henna, and traditional dress in constructing a visual discourse that conveys the cultural values of Hassani society. It also discusses the impact of modernization and intercultural exchange on the evolution of women's dance while demonstrating the persistence of its fundamental heritage elements. The paper concludes that women's dance constitutes a symbolic system reflecting women's social status, their relationship with the Saharan environment and historical memory, and their role in preserving cultural identity and safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.