Rajasthan Music and Dance

The folk music of Rajasthan has mesmerizing melody accompanied by the string instrument Sarangi or the wind instrument Shahnai. The cymbal like sound of 'manjeera' and the foot tapping beats of 'khartal' or 'dhol', accompany lively dance performances. The music of Rajasthan is as captivating as the place itself. The music of Rajasthan has found recognition not just in Hindi film industry but overseas as well.

The folk songs narrate the rich folklore and imperial heritage of the state. Rajasthan also has certain traditional instruments like Baara, Algoza, Sarangi, Jantar, Ektara that are unique to this state. Maand is a form of court music that is attributed to the Marwar region of Rajasthan. In this, the song is a Raaga formation that includes a complex inflexion of voices, sung in a deep bass. The theme of Maand used to be praise of the ruler-patron. These days, there is a festival is dedicated exclusively to Maand in Jodhpur. Pabuji ka Phad sings of the exploits of Pabuji Ramdeo, a Bhopa hero of the 14th century.

Among the dances of Rajasthan, Ghoomar is a dance performed by the women in the zenana section and traditionally it has been out of bounds for men. Women twirl in circles with their faces covered by the veil. This dance form has amazing grace and is also very colourful. Bhavai is the most spectacular dance of Rajasthan. Veiled women dancers balance up to seven or nine brass pitchers as they dance with the soles of their feet perched on top of a glass, or on the edge of a sword. The Jasnaiths of Bikaner and Churu perform the Fire Dance on a large bed of flaming coals, to the accompaniment of drum beats. Gair dance is performed by both men and women. Originally a dance of the Bhil tribe, it is performed at the time of the Holi festival. The Snake dance performed by the Kalbeliya community of snake charmers is a sensuous and rhythmic dance.

Performances of Rajasthan's folk dance and music are integral to enjoying the state of Rajasthan in its manifold splendour.