- Banganga Fair:-It is said that the stream of Banganga was formed when Arjun, one of the Pandavas, shot an arrow to quench the thirst of dying Bhishma Pitamah, who was a brave warrior and had been badly wounded in the battle of Mahabharata.
- Chandrabagha Fair:-Thousands of devotees gather here at the time of fair to take a holy dip in the sacred waters of river Chandrabhaga.
- Gogaji Fair:-Gogaji is regarded as a saint by the Kayam Khani Muslims who are beieved to be his descendants. He is an eminent warrior-hero of the region. Hindus called him by the name of Goga Veer while Muslims call him Jahar Peer.
- Jambheswar Fair:-Jambheswar ji is considered an in carination of Lord Vishnu himself, by the Bishnois. He always stood for self-control, truth and non-violence. Two temples of Jambheswar ji are situated near the town of Nokha – one in village Mukam and the other on the sand dune of Samarthal.
- Kaila Devi Fair:-One of the most venerated fairs of Rajasthan, Kaila devi fair is hels at the temple of Kaila Devi, who is worshipped as the guardian deity by the Yadavas, the Khinchis, and the princess of Karauli.
- Kapil Muni Fair:-The largest fair of Bikaner, Kapil Muni Fair is named after the Kapil who was a great sage, believed to have done ‘tapasya’ here for the redemption of mankind. Kapil Muni has been mentioned in Puranas and has been said to descend from Lord Brahma (the creator of the world) himself.
- Karni Mata Fair:-Karni Mata led an ascetic life and dedicated herself to the service of the poor and downtrodden and is believed to possess superinatural powers. She laid the foundation of Deshnok and her main followers are ‘Charans’.
- Khatu Shyamji Fair:-Thousands of devotees visit the temple during this annual fair, many of them for performing the ‘Jadula’ ceremony of their children, where the child ‘s head is shaven clean for the first time.
- Khetlaji Fair:-There are shops and festivity that is characteristic of all Rajasthani fairs. The bubbling people who throng to the fair in their colorful attire certainly add the charms to this gala occasion.
- Mallinath Fair:-One of the biggest cattle fairs of Rajasthan, Mallinath Fair is just the right place to visit to look out for highly popular breeds of cattle such as cows, camels, sheep, goats and horses.
- Nagaur Fair:-The famous Nagaur fair is known for the cattle tradesmen with colorful turbans and long mustaches that come there with their fine breed of camels, horses, cows, and bullocks.
- Pushkar Fair:-One of the most sought-after fair in Rajasthan, a lot of tourists come to Pushkar Fair on pilgrimage as well as to see the display of a mystifying array of items.
- Ramdevra Fair:-Baba Ramdev was a Tanwar Rajput who took ‘Samadhi’ (left his mortal body for the heavenly abode) in 1458 AD. He was believed to have miraculous powers and is considered an incarination of Lord Krishna.
- Sheetla Mata Fair:-It is said that if the wrath of Sheetla Mata is let loose, then epidemics spread. This fair is held to make offerings and worship the deity to please her and keep her pacified. In the shrine, a red stone represents the deity.
- Shri Mahavirji Fair:-A sacred place to Digambar Jains, followers of Mahavir ji, they come from far off places to pay their homage to the venerated saint at the Mahavirji temple, situated in an enclosure known as ‘Katala’.
- Sitabari Fair:-As the legend goes, Sita, the wife of Lord Ram, was left by Lakshman here to serve the period of her banishment. He also shot an arrow from where a stream of clear water sprouted for Sita.
- Urs Fair:-The remains of Sufi saint Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chishti lie buried in ‘Dargah Sharif’ in Ajmer and are held in held in great reverence by devotees of all communities. Khwaja had come from Persia and established Chishtia order of ‘fakirs’ in India.
- Holi
- Diwali
- Bhai Dooj
- Rakhi
- Dushera
- Muharram
- Hadoti Festival, Kota
- Braj Festival, Bharatpur
- Desert Festival, Jaisalmer
- Summer Festival, Mt. Abu
- Marwar Festival, Jodhpur
- Camel Festival, Bikaner
- Gangaur Festival, Jaipur
- Teej Festival, Jaipur
- Mewar Festival, Udaipur
Folk Music of Rajasthan
Rajasthan has a diverse collection of musician castes, including langas, sapera, bhopa, jogi and Manganiar. There are two traditional classes of musicians: the Langas, who stuck mostly exclusively to Muslim audiences and styles, and the Manganiars, who had a more liberal approach.
Manganiar are professional hereditary caste musicians. They mostly live in Jaisalmer and Barmer districts of Rajasthan.They play an interesting string instrument played with a bow. It is know as Kamaicha.
Manganiars (Though Muslims) sing invariable among Hindu patron families. They serve during childbirth, weddings and other ceremonies. Manganiars are very good are rhythmic instruments like Dholak and Khadtal. Their musical compositions are very complex and have improvisatory rules build into it. Virtuoso rhythm playing has largely added to their success in music.
Langas are professional caste musicians. They live in western Rajasthan and provide musical service to Sindhi Sipahi community. They sing songs related to life-passage ceremonies i.e. birth, marriage and related ceremonies or festivals.
Historically for at least four hundred years the group has been providing music on Gujratan and Sindhi Sarangi. This evolved chordophone, the Sindhi Sarangi has helped them to enhance the quality of compositions.
The Langas continue to serve their patrons but for the last two decades, they have become a big force in representing folk music of Rajasthan on all types of electronic and other popular medias. They are widely travelled artists in the whole world. They have a strong voice and have an improvisatory technique to improve the quality of songs.
Folk Dances of Rajasthan
- Ghoomar Dance:-is a traditional as well as an enthusiastic folk dance of Rajasthan. Ghoomar or Ghumar was basically developed by the Bhil tribe and was adopted by other Rajasthani communities. The Ghoomar dance is a particularly a Women’s dance and performed by the women for exclusively ladies gatherings. Ghoomar dance is performed by groups of women moving in a circular fashion and in swirling robes accompanied by men and women singing together.
- Kachi Ghori Dance:-This folk dance originated from the bandit regions of Shekhawati and is generally performed for the entertainment of the bridegroom’s party.This dance is performed by mens on dummy horses. Men wear elaborate costumes- red turbans and dhotis and kurtas, embellished with brilliant mirror-work and ride the dummy horses. These dancers move rhythmically to the beating of drums and fifes by holding a naked sword on theie hand while a singer narrates the exploits of the Bavaria bandits of Shekhawati region hrough his song.
- Gair Dance
- Panihari Dance
- Sekhawati’s Geendada Dance
- Chang Dance
- Dandiya Dance
- Dhol Dance
- Bum Dance
- Tera Taali Dance
- Chari Dance
Folk Dances of Nomadic Tribe:-
- Kalbeliya Dance
- Shankaria Dance
- Panihari Dance
- Idoni Dance
- Sankhiyas Dance
- Banjara Dance
- Bagariya Dance
- Bhawai Dance
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Fairs, Festivals, Folk Music, and Folk Dances
Fairs, festivals, folk music, and folk dances are all important parts of human culture. They provide opportunities for people to come together and celebrate their shared traditions. Fairs are typically held on an annual basis and feature a variety of activities, such as Livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, and carnival rides. Festivals can be held on any day of the year and celebrate a wide range of topics, such as religious holidays, historical events, or cultural traditions. Folk music is a genre of music that is passed down orally from generation to generation. It often reflects the history and culture of the people who create it. Folk dances are traditional dances that are performed by people of a particular culture. They can be simple or complex, and often involve intricate steps and movements.
Fairs, festivals, folk music, and folk dances are all important parts of our world. They provide us with opportunities to learn about different cultures, to celebrate our own heritage, and to simply have fun.
Fairs
Fairs are a type of public gathering that typically features a variety of entertainment, food, and commercial exhibits. They are often held on an annual basis and can be traced back to ancient times. Fairs can be found all over the world, and they vary greatly in size and scope. Some fairs are small, local events, while others are large, international gatherings.
The first fairs were likely held as a way to trade goods and livestock. Over time, they evolved into more social events, with people coming together to enjoy entertainment, food, and games. Fairs today often feature a variety of agricultural exhibits, livestock shows, and carnival rides. They may also include live music, theater performances, and other forms of entertainment.
Fairs are a popular way to celebrate local culture and history. They can also be a great way to learn about different cultures from around the world. If you’re looking for a fun and festive event, be sure to check out a fair in your area.
Festivals
A festival is an event, usually staged by a community, which centers on and celebrates some characteristic aspect of that community and its culture. Festivals are usually joyous occasions, and they often involve music, dancing, food, and drink. They can be held for a variety of reasons, such as to celebrate a religious holiday, to commemorate a historical event, or to simply bring people together for a good time.
Festivals can be found all over the world, and they vary greatly in size and scope. Some festivals are small, local events, while others are large, international gatherings. Some festivals are held annually, while others are held only once in a few years or even once in a lifetime.
No matter what the reason for the festival, they all share some common Elements. They are all occasions for people to come together and celebrate their shared culture. They are all times for people to enjoy themselves and have fun. And they are all times for people to learn about different cultures and traditions.
Folk Music
Folk music is a genre of music that is passed down orally from generation to generation. It often reflects the history and culture of the people who create it. Folk music can be simple or complex, and it can be performed by a solo singer or by a group of people.
Folk music is often associated with rural areas, but it can be found in all parts of the world. Some of the most well-known examples of folk music include American country music, British folk music, and African-American blues music.
Folk music is an important part of many cultures. It can be used to tell stories, to celebrate important events, and to pass on traditions. Folk music can also be a source of comfort and inspiration.
Folk Dances
Folk dances are traditional dances that are performed by people of a particular culture. They can be simple or complex, and often involve intricate steps and movements. Folk dances are often performed at festivals and other special occasions.
Folk dances can be traced back to ancient times. They were originally used as a way to celebrate religious festivals, to mark important life events, and to teach people about their culture. Folk dances are still performed today, and they continue to play an important role in many cultures.
Folk dances are a great way to learn about different cultures. They can also be a lot of fun to watch and to participate in. If you’re looking for a way to experience another culture, be sure to check out some folk dances.
What is a tradition?
A tradition is a belief or behavior passed down within a group or Society with symbolic meaning or special significance with origins in the past.
What are the different types of traditions?
There are many different types of traditions, but some of the most common include:
- Cultural traditions: These are traditions that are passed down within a particular culture or ethnic group. They can include things like food, music, dance, and art.
- Religious traditions: These are traditions that are passed down within a particular religion. They can include things like rituals, ceremonies, and holidays.
- Family traditions: These are traditions that are passed down within a particular family. They can include things like recipes, stories, and sayings.
- Personal traditions: These are traditions that are unique to an individual. They can include things like hobbies, habits, and routines.
Why are traditions important?
Traditions are important because they help us to connect with our past and our culture. They also provide us with a sense of identity and belonging. Additionally, traditions can help us to feel connected to others and to build community.
What are some examples of traditions?
Some examples of traditions include:
- The Christmas tree: The Christmas tree is a tradition that is celebrated in many parts of the world. It is a symbol of the holiday season and is often decorated with lights, ornaments, and tinsel.
- The Easter egg hunt: The Easter egg hunt is a tradition that is celebrated on Easter Sunday. Children hunt for eggs that have been hidden by adults. The eggs are often filled with candy or small toys.
- The Fourth of July parade: The Fourth of July parade is a tradition that is celebrated in many parts of the United States. The parade features floats, bands, and other performers. It is a celebration of the United States’ independence.
- The quinceañera: The quinceañera is a tradition that is celebrated in many Latin American countries. It is a coming-of-age celebration for girls who are turning 15 years old. The quinceañera typically includes a mass, a party, and a dance.
What are some benefits of following traditions?
There are many benefits to following traditions. Some of the benefits include:
- A sense of belonging: Traditions can help us to feel connected to our past, our culture, and our community.
- A sense of identity: Traditions can help us to develop a sense of who we are and where we come from.
- A sense of purpose: Traditions can give us a sense of purpose and meaning in life.
- A sense of continuity: Traditions can help us to feel connected to the past and to the future.
- A sense of stability: Traditions can provide us with a sense of stability and security in a world that is constantly changing.
What are some challenges of following traditions?
There are also some challenges to following traditions. Some of the challenges include:
- Traditions can be outdated: Traditions can become outdated and no longer relevant to the modern world.
- Traditions can be restrictive: Traditions can sometimes be restrictive and prevent us from being ourselves.
- Traditions can be harmful: Traditions can sometimes be harmful, such as traditions that promote violence or discrimination.
- Traditions can be expensive: Traditions can sometimes be expensive, such as traditions that require a lot of Money or time.
How can we make traditions more relevant in the modern world?
There are a few things we can do to make traditions more relevant in the modern world. First, we can update traditions to reflect the values and beliefs of the modern world. Second, we can create new traditions that are relevant to the modern world. Third, we can share traditions with others so that they can learn about and appreciate them.
How can we avoid the challenges of following traditions?
There are a few things we can do to avoid the challenges of following traditions. First, we can be open to change and be willing to adapt traditions to the modern world. Second, we can be selective about the traditions we follow and only follow those that are meaningful to us. Third, we can be critical of traditions and question their validity.
Sure, here are some multiple choice questions about different cultures around the world:
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Which of the following is not a traditional dance of India?
(A) Bharatanatyam
(B) Kathak
(C) Salsa
(D) Kuchipudi -
Which of the following is not a traditional food of China?
(A) Peking duck
(B) Kung pao chicken
(C) Sushi
(D) Dumplings -
Which of the following is not a traditional sport of Japan?
(A) Sumo
(B) Baseball
(C) Soccer
(D) Cricket -
Which of the following is not a traditional instrument of Africa?
(A) Djembe
(B) Kora
(C) Guitar
(D) Piano -
Which of the following is not a traditional clothing item of Mexico?
(A) Sombrero
(B) Poncho
(C) Kilt
(D) Mariachi hat -
Which of the following is not a traditional drink of South America?
(A) Mate
(B) Coca-Cola
(C) Pisco
(D) Beer -
Which of the following is not a traditional festival of Europe?
(A) Oktoberfest
(B) Carnival
(C) Thanksgiving
(D) Christmas -
Which of the following is not a traditional animal of Australia?
(A) Kangaroo
(B) Koala
(C) Wombat
(D) Giraffe -
Which of the following is not a traditional language of North America?
(A) English
(B) Spanish
(C) French
(D) Mandarin -
Which of the following is not a traditional building of the Middle East?
(A) Mosque
(B) Palace
(C) Cathedral
(D) Pyramid
I hope you enjoyed these questions!