RIYADH: The programs of the Saudi sword dance (Al-Ardha) are set to start Tuesday, under the patronage of King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. The Ardha is considered to be one of the most important activities of the Janadriya Festival, as it depicts national unity and cohesion between the people and their leadership, in addition to portraying the pride, strength and cohesion of the Ummah. The song accompanying the sword dance is chanted in a certain pattern and is repeated by those performing the Ardha to the beat of the drums and raised shining swords. The Najdi Ardha is always present on all occasions in which the officials and citizens participate and express peace and happiness. It is likened to expressing loyalty anew to the King because it was a war dance during the times of conflict. The Ardha developed from an old Arab tradition known since olden days in times of war. There is no text about the old Arab heritage, which can be linked to the Ardha that we know today, but it can be noticed clearly that the basic features of Al-Ardha accompanied war, for the beating of drums was there since ancient eras in times of war, swords used to be carried and war poetry was a basic element in kindling patriotic enthusiasm and fervor. The Najdi Ardha is considered to be a military art, which the inhabitants of Najd used to perform after victory in battles. The drums in the back rows are known as the “Takhmeer” drums. Those in the middle, who also perform special dances are known as the “Irkaab” drums. In the middle is the holder of the flag. King Abdullah is well-known for his love for Al-Ardha, which he performs very well. He translates this keenness by his presence on all occasions among the performers and amid the beating of drums carrying the Saudi flag on his shoulder. To Saudi nationals, the Ardha and other dances are an expression of happiness that kindle their desire to celebrate even if they are at home, watching the performers on TV. As much as the Ardha is a symbol of victory, pride and dignity that bolsters the values of deep-rooted originality and Arab heritage in the hearts of the youth, we find people young and old are keen to participate in the Saudi Ardha. The great man of letters, Abdullah Bin Khamees, gave this historical heritage special and great attention when he wrote the book “War songs” (Ahazeej Al-Harb) or “Al-Ardha Poetry,” in which he collected, arranged and identified the poets. When we see the dress used in the Najdi Ardha dance, we notice the beauty of its shape and colors. And the movements in this dance depend to a great degree on the dress, as it is a war dance. A special dress is used, which is loose and wide to allow the dancers to move easily. The dress is made of a light white fabric which suits the surrounding conditions, which are affected by climatic factors. Ardha dancers usually wear a black velvet coat (Qateefa) known as Al-Qurmliah. Sometimes it has long sleeves and it is worn with the Shmagh or Ghutrah and Iqal. At present, the dancer wears an intersecting belt known as “Mahzam” over his chest.
