Every year, the Bhil community of Mewar embarks on a 40-day ritual called Gavri.
About Gavri Festival:
It is a 40-day festival of dance-drama which is performed by the Bhil communityof Rajasthan.
It is a fusion of act and dance, dedicated to the fight between goddess and demon.
This most popular southern Rajasthani ritual reflects the divine perception of the Bheel tribe.
It has been known to be in existence since the 3rd or 4th century, it was prevalent in the times of Siddh Raj Jai Singh, a ruler in Gujarat.
A vigorous fight between Goddess Amba and Demon Bhiamwal shows the conquest of good over the bad.
The original story of ‘Gavri’ is the story of Lord Shiva and the demon Bhasmasur.
The artists perform plays in those villages where their married sisters and daughters reside. The purpose behind this custom is to ensure the wellness of their loved ones after marriage and instill in them a sense of pride and security.
This dance drama skillfully combines mime and dialogue, known by the names Gavri or Rai Nach.
Moreover, energetic background music and colorful costumes makes the place full of verve.
Throughout the performance, various scenes are enacted, referred to as Khel.
Kutkadiya, a character skillfully narrates the story before each scene, allowing the audience to immerse themselves fully in the play’s narrative.
All the characters are played by men and not women.
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