


| Rajasthan Culture |

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| The culture of Rajasthan is a wide spectrum of brilliant hues caressed by waves of settlers ranging from ancient Indus Valley urbanites to pastoral Aryan herdsmen. Bhil forest dwellers, Jain merchant princes, Jat and Gujjar cultivators, Muslim craftsmen, and the Rajput warrior aristocracy all shaped this region called the land of kings. Colorful costumes, festivals and customs relieve the tedium of coping with a harsh, demanding land. Hindusim is the main religion of Rajasthan. Other significant religious groups in the state are the Jains and the Muslims. There are many local folk heros and local deities such as Pabuji, Ramdeoji, Gogaji, Mehaji, Tejaji & Harbhuji. Hindi is the official language of the state but the principal language spoken is "Rajasthani", and the four major dialects are Marwari in the west, Jaipuri in the east, Malwi in the southeast and Mewati in the northeast. Hindi language is now replacing Rajasthani and you will find English speaking people in all the major cities and even in remote villages. Fairs and festivals Fairs and Festivals forms a very important part of Rajathan Culture. There is a celebration for every religious occasion, every change of season and every harvest, all invariably a reflection of the genius of their arts and crafts and their aesthetic refinement. In fact, celebrations occur almost round the year and are a splendid opportunity to gain an insight into the life of the Rajasthan during their travel. Music and Dance Folk dance and music is a part of life in Rajasthan. Every region has its own very dialect of music and dance. The Ghoomar dance from Udaipur and Kalbeliya dance of Jaisalmer have international recognition. Folk music is a vital part of Rajasthan culture. Songs are used to tell the legendary battles of Rajputs. Folk songs are commonly ballads which relate heroic deeds, love stories, and religious or devotional songs known as bhajans and banis and often accompanied by musical instruments like dholak, sitar, sarangi etc. Art and Architecture Rajasthan is known for its traditional and colorful art. The block prints, tie and dye prints, Bagaru prints, Sanganer prints and Zari embroidery are major export products from Rajasthan. Handicraft items like wooden furniture and handicrafts, carpets, blur potteries are some of the things you will find here. Rajasthan is famous for the majestic forts, intricately carved temples and decorated havelis. |