Kud is a traditional folk dance associated with which Indian state?

Introduction / Context:
Folk dances reflect the local culture, customs, and social life of different regions in India. Many state specific dances are regularly asked in competitive exams to test cultural knowledge. Kud is one such folk dance that comes from a particular northern state known for its mountainous terrain and diverse ethnic groups.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The dance form in question is Kud.
• Options: Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Maharashtra.
• We assume standard cultural associations of dances with states.
• Kud is recognised as a folk dance involving collective performance and ritual elements.

Concept / Approach:
Kud is associated with the hilly regions of Jammu & Kashmir, especially among rural communities where it forms part of traditional celebrations and rituals. The dance often involves groups of men performing to the beat of drums and local musical instruments, sometimes during nights of worship or communal gatherings. The other states listed have their own well known folk dances but are not the home of Kud.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that Kud is mentioned in cultural references related to the Jammu region and adjacent areas in Jammu & Kashmir. Step 2: Kerala is in the far south and is known for dances like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Theyyam, not Kud. Step 3: Andhra Pradesh has folk dance forms such as Burrakatha and Dhimsa, distinct from Kud. Step 4: Maharashtra features Lavani and Koli as its prominent folk dances. Step 5: Given this, the only state correctly linked with Kud is Jammu & Kashmir.

Verification / Alternative check:
Ethnographic and cultural notes on Jammu & Kashmir often list Kud as a prominent folk dance of the region, particularly among farming communities. It is described as a group dance performed to invoke blessings and celebrate occasions in the hills. No similar association appears for Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, or Maharashtra when consulting standard cultural geography material.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Kerala's classical and folk performances have a distinct South Indian flavour and very different names and styles. Andhra Pradesh's folk traditions feature dances that evolved from local stories and tribal practices but do not include Kud. Maharashtra's folk culture is strongly associated with Lavani, Tamasha, and Koli dances. Since these states have separate, well known dance traditions, they do not match the description of Kud.

Common Pitfalls:
Because many Indian folk dances are less widely publicised than classical forms, learners may guess based on unfamiliarity rather than clear recall. This can lead to random choices among states. To avoid such errors, build a small mental map linking specific lesser known dances to their states, for example: Kud with Jammu & Kashmir, Bihu with Assam, Ghoomar with Rajasthan, and so on.

Final Answer:
Kud is a traditional folk dance of Jammu & Kashmir.