elukestus

Elukestus is a traditional Estonian folk dance that originated in the 19th century. It is performed by a group of dancers, typically consisting of four to eight people, and is characterized by its lively and energetic movements. The dance is often accompanied by traditional Estonian music, which includes instruments such as the kannel, a type of flute, and the viiul, a stringed instrument.

The elukestus dance is typically performed in a circle, with the dancers moving in a counterclockwise direction. The dance begins with a slow, graceful movement, followed by a series of quick, jerky movements that are meant to mimic the movements of a horse. The dancers often wear traditional Estonian clothing, which includes a long, white shirt and a wide, black belt.

The elukestus dance is an important part of Estonian culture and is often performed at festivals, weddings, and other special occasions. It is also taught in schools and dance studios throughout Estonia, and is an important part of the country's cultural heritage. The dance is recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Estonia by UNESCO.