Performed by Bheel tribe of Rajasthan, 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. A vigorous fight between Goddess Amba and Demon Bhiamwal shows the conquest of good over the bad. Gavri is a combination of an act and dance. All gavri artists performing at dharohar are ethnic bheel. It makes the show looks real and impressive. Moreover, energetic background music and colorful costumes makes the place full of verve.
Tribal Celebration
Gavri dance celebrates the culture of tribal people, showing that Rajasthan is not just about celebrating upper caste individuals, but everyone in general. Gavri is not just a dance form but also a festival of the Bheel tribe. This dance drama skillfully combines mime and dialogue, known by the names Gavri or Rai Nach.
The Popular Legend Behind the Gavri Dance
The original story of ‘Gavri’ is the story of Lord Shiva and the demon Bhasmasur. The demon was born out of the bhasma (ashes) on Lord Shiva`s body. Bhasmasur asked Lord Shiva to grant his wish and pleased by his devotion, Lord Shiva agreed to grant a boon of his choosing. Bhasmasura was granted the power to burn to ashes anybody on whose head he placed his hand. Bhasmasura became arrogant and wrecked the whole world. Lord Vishnu then assumed the form of an enchanting dancer, Mohini, who allured the demon with her charm. Due to Mohini`s charm, Bhasmasura placed his hand on his own head and this burnt him to ashes. The play celebrates this event because the Bheel tribe considers Lord Shiva their main god.
Characters in Gavri Dance Form
In the Gavri dance, Lord Shiva is portrayed in a unique form. The play represents Shiva, Vishnu, and Bhasmasura. The characters Raiburia, Mohini, and Parvati, are embodied by the talented performers called ‘Rais,’ including Kutkadiya and Pat Bhopa. These five characters, collectively known as ‘Maji,’ play pivotal roles in the dance drama. There are more animal characters and other characters known as Kheliye.
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.
Folk Dance show