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 The
cultural wealth of Bikaner becomes manifest in its
simplicity, grace and creativity. The un-artificial and
loving nature of life is the main essence of its
cultural heritage. The regions love for color and joyous
celebrations is proved by elaborate rituals and the gay
abandon with which it surrenders to the numerous fairs
and festivals of the region. In addition to the
festivals celebrated by the Hindus, Muslims and the
others ,there are also other traditional fairs.
Folk dances reflect the communism nature and
human-beings through physical movements, gestures and
various other modes of expression. The tradition of folk
dance in Bikaner region is very old. It commenced long
before the inception of Rathore dynasty in Bikaner and
flourished as the time passed culminating in rich and
varied styles of popular dances. The famous dances of
ladies are 'Ghumar', 'Saluda', 'Bhav', and 'Mataki',
while men perform 'Ger', 'P atta',
'Tandava' and 'Pisach' dances gaily and gleefully on
different occasions.
Muslims perform 'Patta' dance at the time of Moharram
with perfect skill, excellent balance
and speedy
movements. The Jasnathis of Bikaner are renowned for
their Tantric powers and FIRE DANCE is in keeping with
their life style. A large ground is prepared with wood
and charcoal where the Jasnathi men and boys jump on to
the fire to the accompaniment of drum beats. The music
gradually rises and tempo reaches a crescendo, the
dancers seem to be in a trance like state. They are not
likely to have any blisters to show for it. These
devotional performances are usually to be seen late on a
winters night.
The tastes and tradition of folk life of Bikaner are
reflected in it's Rammats. People give free expressions
to their feelings of pleasures and pains in Rammats(
Folk Drama). Rammat has come down from early nineteenth
century as one of the most popular forms of
entertainments. It has it's own narration, style and
methods of presentation. Several Rammats have been sta ndardized
as the monopolized presentation of different mohallas in
Bikaner.
People in
modern Bikaner region are also known for their pleasure
and contentment. The falgun Holi festivities, the folk
dances, camel-rides, Dhamals and Loors etc. fill life
with eternal joy. There are sacred places where people
go for inspiration. Temples at Deshnok, Kolayat and
Kodemdesar are visited by thousands of pilgrims. |
