Ghumura is a traditional folk dance belonging to which Indian state?

Introduction / Context:
India has a rich tradition of folk dances, each associated with specific states and cultural regions. Knowing the correct pairing of folk dance and state is a common requirement in general knowledge examinations. This question asks about the folk dance Ghumura and the state it belongs to.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The folk dance in question is Ghumura.
• The options list Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Maharashtra.
• We assume standard cultural classifications used in Indian arts and culture references.

Concept / Approach:
Ghumura is a traditional dance form from parts of Odisha and is often performed with a distinctive drum called Ghumura. It has martial and folk elements and is associated with festivals and cultural programmes in that region. To answer this question, one must correctly associate Ghumura with Odisha rather than confusing it with dances from other states.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall common pairings of folk dances and states, such as Bihu with Assam, Garba with Gujarat, and Ghumura with Odisha.Step 2: Identify that Ghumura uses a special drum and energetic movements, and that it is traditionally performed in parts of western Odisha.Step 3: Compare the options and recognise that Andhra Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Maharashtra have their own well known folk dances, but none of them is called Ghumura.Step 4: Conclude that the correct state for Ghumura is Odisha.

Verification / Alternative check:
Sources on Indian dance and culture attribute Ghumura to Odisha, particularly to regions like Kalahandi and neighbouring districts. It is featured in state level cultural events and official descriptions of Odishan folk traditions. This consistent association verifies that Odisha is the correct answer for the state linked to Ghumura.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Andhra Pradesh: While it has many folk dances such as Kuchipudi and Burrakatha, Ghumura is not one of them.
Jammu and Kashmir: Its folk forms include Rouf and other regional dances, but Ghumura is not associated with this northern region.
Maharashtra: Famous folk forms here include Lavani and Tamasha, whereas Ghumura belongs to Odisha.

Common Pitfalls:
Candidates sometimes attempt to guess based on the sound of the name without prior knowledge of the pairing, which may lead them to choose any state randomly. Another mistake is confusing Ghumura with other folk dances that also use drums or vigorous movements. Regular revision of state dance lists and making simple mental associations between dance names and state names can help avoid such errors.

Final Answer:
Ghumura is a folk dance of the Indian state of Odisha.