Garba - Gujarat's Folk Dance:
Recently Included in UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Garba:
Origin and Location: Garba is a traditional dance form originating from the state of Gujarat in India. It is deeply rooted in Gujarati culture and heritage.
Association with Navratri: Primarily associated with the Navratri festival, a nine-night festival celebrating the Hindu goddess Durga. Garba is performed extensively during this festival.
Religious Significance: The dance is a form of worship and devotion to the goddess. 'Garba' is derived from the Sanskrit term 'Garbha' meaning womb, symbolizing the notion of the goddess as the universal womb.
Dance Style: It is characterized by rhythmic steps, clapping, and circular movements. Dancers move in a circle around a central lit lamp or an image/statue of the goddess.
Music and Instruments: Accompanied by traditional Gujarati music, which often includes live instruments like dhol (drums), harmonium, and flute. Songs are typically in Gujarati language, praising the goddess and celebrating life.
Costumes and Accessories: Participants wear colorful, often mirror-work adorned traditional dresses. Women wear 'Chaniya Choli' (a three-piece outfit with a flared skirt, blouse, and a dupatta) and men wear 'Kediyu' (a type of kurta) and 'Dhoti' or 'Pajama'.
Jewelry: Dancers adorn themselves with vibrant jewelry, including bangles, necklaces, earrings, and often bindis on the forehead.
Popular Variants: There are several variants of Garba, such as 'Dodhiyu', 'Tran Taali', 'Heech', etc., each with unique steps and rhythms.
Social Aspect: It is a community dance, encouraging participation from all ages and genders. It fosters a sense of community and unity.
Global Presence: With the Gujarati diaspora, Garba has gained popularity worldwide, celebrated in many countries where Indian communities reside.
Modern Influence: Contemporary Garba incorporates elements from various dance forms and modern music, making it appealing to the younger generation.
Cultural Significance: Beyond a dance form, Garba is a cultural symbol representing the vibrancy, tradition, and spirit of the Gujarati community.
Other Recognized Elements from India :
1. Ramlila: Traditional enactment of the Ramayana .
2. Yoga: Ancient practice promoting physical and mental well-being .
3. Vedic Chanting: Preservation of ancient Vedic traditions through chanting .
4. Kutiyattam - Sanskrit Theatre of Kerala: Unique form of Sanskrit drama .
5. Ramman - Religious Festival of Garhwal Himalayas: Ritual theatre and festival celebration .
6. Mudiyettu - Ritual Theatre of Kerala: Blend of ritual theatre and dance drama .
7. Kalbelia - Folk Songs and Dances of Rajasthan: Traditional dance form reflecting Rajasthani culture .
8. Chhau Dance of Eastern India: Distinctive masked dance with martial, tribal, and folk roots .
9. Buddhist Chanting of Ladakh: Ritualistic chanting from the region's Buddhist traditions .
10. Sankirtana - Ritual Singing, Drumming, and Dancing of Manipur: Traditional performing art with religious significance .
11. Traditional Brass and Copper Craft of Utensil Making in Punjab: Artisanal craft showcasing Punjab's cultural heritage .
12. Nawrouz: Persian New Year celebration .
13. Kumbh Mela: Massive Hindu pilgrimage and festival .
14. Durga Puja in Kolkata: Grand celebration of Goddess Durga in Kolkata .
India's rich cultural tapestry recognized globally by UNESCO!
