The Rajputana cultural diaspora is diverse but something typical and unique
binds them together so that it never takes another Indian too long to single
them out. Maand, the desert ballads sung in deep bass voice evoke pathos,
while the twirling skirts of Ghoomar dancers, the balancing of brass pots
(Chari dancers), performing on a bed of flaming coals, dancing on sword
edges (Bhavai dance), Sapera dance of Kalbeliya snake-charmers
community sets the adrenaline rushing with some exotic excitement. Sights
and sounds, endemic to this desertland make up this cultural kaleidoscope.
Take a look..
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Folk Dance |
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A little girl sways to the
strain of Ektara (a single-chord violinlike instrument). Singing and
dancing are ritualistic in Rajasthan and predominates all
festivities. |
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Rustic Belle |
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Used to tourist cameras, she
would readily flash that beatific smile. Some scrutinize her dress &
jewelry, while others ponder what is it that her eyes belie. |
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Traditional Headgear |
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Turban or Pagri stands for
Rajput pride. There are about 1000 different ways of tying it, each
denoting the class, caste and region of the wearer. |
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Traditional Tattoo |
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The green herbal paste,
mehendi, is applied on hands & feet as a temporary tattoo during
festivals. The fragrance and the natural reddish tinge is
incomparable! |
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Artistic Walls |
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Display of Rajputana artistry
at the very doorstep! The walls of havelis (mansions) at
Shekhawati are decorated with intricate, fine paintings. |
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Water Carriers |
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Veiled women carrying water in
brass containers from an oasis. It rains sparsely in the Thar.
Hence, cuisines are snack-like, using less water & preserved for
long. |
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Rajput Bridegroom |
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The Rajput Groom on his way to
the brides place. Turbaned and sworded, mounting a decorated
mare, he is accompanied by a frenzied crowd dancing & singing.
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Camel-ed Beauty |
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Camels are indespensable to
desert-life. During festivals, they are pampered with rich
decorations before they do the parades and races. |
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