Art Forms of Gujarat

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<<–2/”>a >h4>Art Forms of Gujarat

Gujarat’s Folk Culture and Oral Tradition: Its Importance, Peculiarities and Impact

Gujarat which derives its name from the term ‘Gujjar Rashtra’ constitutes a culture which is formed out of mingling of diverse ethnic folks. The flourishing state of Gujarat with its cultural diversity forms an integral part of the Indian culture and has long been harboring both, the indigenous and foreign traditions. The Gujarati culture is an amalgamation of a plethora of traditions, beliefs, customs, arts, values with a tinge modernization as well. Around one-fifth of the Population of the state comprises of tribal and aboriginal communities. All these constituent tribes and communities form a confluence that renders an enriched and versatile Guajarati culture which is evident in the state’s distinctive dance styles, festivals, lifestyle and its cuisine. Though Gujarat is one of the most industrialized states in India, yet it has quite efficiently preserved its rich cultural and traditional inheritances since distant past. Read on to acquaint yourself with all the aspects of multifaceted Guajarati culture.

The state of Gujarat is popular in music because of its contributions. A number of ragas emerged in this state such as Khambavati (from Khambhat, Cambay), Gujaqri Todi Bilaval (from Veraval), Sorathi, (from Sorath), Lati and Ahiri. It is said that the legendary musicians Baiju Bawra and Tana Riri also belong to this state. Pure form of Charans and Gadhavis Folk Music is still prevalent here. Besides classical and folk music, Gujarat has produced several folk instruments like Jantar, Bungal, Turi, String type Ravan Hattho and more.

Fairs & Festivals

During various fairs and festivals thousands of tourists pour in each year from all across the globe to witness the rich and diverse cultural heritage of this part of India. Some of the major Gujarati festivals which are celebrated with great vigor and enthusiasm are Rathyatra, Navratri Mahotsav, International Kite festival, Holi and Deepawali. Some of the most important fairs held in Gujarat include Bhadra Purnima Fair, Shamlaji Melo and Mahadev Fair. All of the above mentioned ingredients converge to form a versatile and diverse Guajarati culture which is prevalent in its lifestyle. Despite modernization and industrialization, Gujarat has somehow been able to preserve all the rich cultural and traditional legacies of dance and art which the land has been harbouring since time immemorial.

Music

Gujarati folk music is extremely rich and versatile and is also known as sugam sangeet. The range of instruments in Gujarati folk music include wind instruments like turi, pava,bungal, string instruments like ravan hattho, ektaro, and jantar and percussion instruments like manjira and zanz pot drum. The songs include bhajans which are categorized by theme of poetry/lyrics and also by musical compositions such as katari, prabhati, dhol etc. One more popular form of the folk music tradition of Gujarat is the baardic tradition. The Deviputra/Chaaran/Ghadhvi community has upheld and enriched the folk tradition of story-telling with or even without music. Some of the traditions include form of doha, chhand, sorathaa, bellads etc.

5 popular folk dances from Gujarat

Bhavai

The name Bhavai is derived from Sanskrit word “Bhava” which means emotions/ feelings. The Bhavai drama is a continuous performance which lasts for the whole night without any stage equipment. It includes issues from social life in a satirical way. Usually Women don’t perform in Bhavai and male artists perform female roles as well. the origin of the dance is believed to be from Asait, a Brahmin from north of Gujarat. Bhavai is usually performed in open grounds drawing from the events in the lives of the contemporary people.

Dandiya

This dance form actually stages a mock-fight between the Goddess Durga and Mahishasura, the mighty demon-king. During dandiya, dancers move their feet and arms in a complicated, choreographed manner with dhol being used as complementary percussion instrument. The sticks (dandiyas) of dance represent the swords of Durga.  The costume for women is traditional like colorful embroidered choli and ghagra with men wearing special turbans and kedias. Garba is usually performed before Aarti in the honor of the Goddess, while Dandiya is performed after it as a part of celebration.

Garba

Garba is a form of dance where the name is derived from the Sanskrit term Garbha (womb) and Deep (lamp). Traditional garba is performed around a central lamp or around Goddess Shakti. This circular & spiral movements have similarities to other spiritual dances like those of Sufi culture. Traditionally, it is performed during Navratri. The movements represent the cycle of life from birth to death with the only thing being Goddess Shakti. The dance symbolizes that God, in feminine form in Garba, is the only constant in a constantly changing world.

Art Forms of Gujarat

Padhar

Padhar dance is one of the prominent folk dances from Gujarat performed by people belonging to Padhar Community. Padhar people are followers of Hinduism-2/”>Hinduism and they worship various forms of Goddess Durga. When performing this dance form the people are in a mood of excitement and frenzy. People indulge in a lot of fun, merry making, music and dance.

Tippani

Tippani folk dance from Gujarat comes from Chorwad district. It has women from seaside striking the floor with sticks and chanting, while other women dance. With simple musical equipment like ‘Thali’, the dancers produce the music. It shows the boredom created by long trips of their men to the ocean. This dance is one of the patterns of the vigorous dance forms of the folk dance in Gujarat.  Although, the dance starts gradually, the rapidity increase with the dancers alternately striking the ground. Towards the end, all women sit in rows and smack the floor very fast. Costumes for the dance consist of a short coat known as ‘“Kedia’ with tight sleeves.,

Gujarat is a state in northwestern India. It is known for its rich culture and history, which is reflected in its art forms. Gujarati art is a diverse and vibrant tradition that encompasses a wide range of genres, including architecture, dance, music, literature, art, crafts, festivals, fairs, Sports, and games.

Architecture

Gujarati architecture is characterized by its use of intricate stonework, intricate carvings, and colorful decorations. Some of the most famous examples of Gujarati architecture include the Ahmedabad City Palace, the Jama Masjid in Ahmedabad, and the Rani Ki Vav stepwell in Patan.

Dance

Gujarati dance is a vibrant and energetic tradition that is often performed at weddings and other celebrations. Some of the most popular forms of Gujarati dance include garba, Dandiya Raas, nritya, and Kathak.

Music

Gujarati music is a rich and diverse tradition that encompasses a wide range of genres, including folk music, classical music, film music, and pop music. Some of the most famous Gujarati musicians include Mohammed Rafi, Lata Mangeshkar, and Asha Bhosle.

Literature

Gujarati literature is a rich and vibrant tradition that dates back to the 12th century. Some of the most famous Gujarati writers include Narsinh Mehta, Dayaram, and Umashankar Joshi.

Art

Gujarati art is a diverse and vibrant tradition that encompasses a wide range of genres, including painting, sculpture, Pottery, and textiles. Some of the most famous Gujarati artists include M.F. Husain, Jamini Roy, and Amrita Sher-Gil.

Crafts

Gujarati crafts are a diverse and vibrant tradition that encompasses a wide range of genres, including embroidery, beadwork, woodcarving, and metalwork. Some of the most famous Gujarati crafts include kundan work, bandhani, and patola.

Festivals

Gujarat is home to a number of vibrant and colorful festivals, including Navratri, Uttarayan, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Diwali. These festivals are celebrated with great pomp and show, and they offer a glimpse into the rich culture and heritage of Gujarat.

Fairs

Gujarat is also home to a number of fairs, which are held throughout the year. These fairs are a great opportunity to experience the local culture and cuisine, and they also offer a chance to shop for souvenirs. Some of the most popular fairs in Gujarat include the Kutch Mahotsav, the Rann Utsav, the Gir National Park Fair, and the Diu Carnival.

Sports

Gujarat is home to a number of popular sports, including cricket, kabaddi, Gujarati wrestling, and kho-kho. These sports are played by people of all ages and backgrounds, and they offer a great way to stay fit and healthy.

Games

Gujarat is also home to a number of popular games, including Gujarati chess, Gujarati carrom, Gujarati ludo, and Gujarati snakes and ladders. These games are played by people of all ages and backgrounds, and they offer a great way to have fun and relax.

Gujarati art forms are a rich and vibrant tradition that reflect the state’s unique culture and history. These art forms are a source of pride for Gujaratis, and they offer a glimpse into the state’s rich and diverse heritage.

Here are some frequently asked questions about art forms:

  1. What are the different types of art forms?

There are many different types of art forms, including painting, sculpture, music, dance, literature, and architecture.

  1. What are the characteristics of each art form?

Each art form has its own unique characteristics. For example, painting is a two-dimensional art form that uses color and form to create images. Sculpture is a three-dimensional art form that uses materials such as clay, stone, or Metal to create objects. Music is an auditory art form that uses Sound to create compositions. Dance is a physical art form that uses movement to express ideas and emotions. Literature is a written art form that uses words to create stories, poems, and other works. Architecture is a visual art form that uses space and form to create buildings and other structures.

  1. What are some famous examples of each art form?

Some famous examples of painting include the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, The Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh, and Guernica by Pablo Picasso. Some famous examples of sculpture include the Venus de Milo, the David by Michelangelo, and the Thinker by Auguste Rodin. Some famous examples of music include Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro, and Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D Minor. Some famous examples of dance include Swan Lake by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, The Nutcracker by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, and The Rite of Spring by Igor Stravinsky. Some famous examples of literature include The Odyssey by Homer, The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri, and Hamlet by William Shakespeare. Some famous examples of architecture include the Parthenon in Athens, the Colosseum in Rome, and the Taj Mahal in Agra, India.

  1. What are the benefits of art?

Art can provide many benefits, including:

  • Emotional expression: Art can be a way to express emotions that may be difficult to express in words.
  • Creative outlet: Art can be a way to express creativity and imagination.
  • Communication: Art can be a way to communicate ideas and emotions to others.
  • Problem-solving: Art can be a way to solve problems and come up with new ideas.
  • Stress relief: Art can be a way to relieve stress and relax.
  • Self-expression: Art can be a way to express oneself and one’s unique identity.
  • Connection to others: Art can be a way to connect with others and build relationships.

  • Sense of accomplishment: Art can be a way to feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.

  • How can I learn more about art?

There are many ways to learn more about art, including:

  • Taking art classes: Taking art classes can provide you with the opportunity to learn about different art forms and techniques.
  • Visiting museums and galleries: Visiting museums and galleries can give you the opportunity to see and experience a variety of art.
  • Reading books and articles about art: Reading books and articles about art can provide you with information about different art forms and artists.
  • Watching documentaries about art: Watching documentaries about art can give you a deeper understanding of different art forms and artists.
  • Talking to artists: Talking to artists can give you insights into the creative process and the meaning of their work.
  • Creating your own art: Creating your own art can be a fun and rewarding way to learn more about art.

  1. Which of the following is not a type of dance from Gujarat?
    (A) Garba
    (B) Dandiya
    (C) Raas
    (D) Kathak

  2. Which of the following is not a type of music from Gujarat?
    (A) Garba
    (B) Dandiya
    (C) Raas
    (D) Bhajan

  3. Which of the following is not a type of art from Gujarat?
    (A) Rabari embroidery
    (B) Patola weaving
    (C) Ahir embroidery
    (D) Bandhani tie-dyeing

  4. Which of the following is not a type of food from Gujarat?
    (A) Dhokla
    (B) Khaman
    (C) Roti
    (D) Puri

  5. Which of the following is not a type of festival from Gujarat?
    (A) Navratri
    (B) Holi
    (C) Diwali
    (D) Dussehra

Answers:
1. (D)
2. (D)
3. (C)
4. (C)
5. (B)