The northwestern region of the Indian subcontinent is what we today call Rajasthan. Embraced by the majestic Aravallis ranges, Rajasthan is the land of the famed Rajput rulers, whose legends of chivalry, romance and fidelity have been woven into folklores and ballads, echoing through the barren yet beautiful state.
Rajasthan has played a major role in the development of the subcontinent. World’s first greatest civilization developed in the western parts of Rajasthan, what’s known today as Pakistan. And it was Rajasthan, which experienced the endless rage of numerous invaders sweeping down the mountains of Central Asia. The Indo-Aryans, Persians, Greeks, Afghans, Mongols, Scythians, Huns, Parthians and Mughals, each of the intruders shaped the history, ethnicity and culture of Rajasthan.
However, for greater part of its life, Rajasthan has remained somewhat isolated, protected by the parched, unforgiving desert and Aravalli mountain ranges, and has remained one of the country’s finest cultures.
The land of the shifting sand dunes, Rajasthan is as diverse as its colourful people. The peculiar amalgamation of history, geography and lifestyle is what makes Rajasthan different from the rest of the country.
While assessing its lifestyle, a lot of factors can be taken into consideration but it’s the distinct geography of the Thar Desert and the Aravallis that have played a major part in its evolution over the years. Layers of vibrant costumes, ocean of festivals, and mesmerizing folks and arts are nothing but ways of relieving the dullness of the barren land.
Providing a stark contrast to the desolate landscape, the lifestyle and the people of Rajasthan, with their wide spectrum of brilliant hues, stitch a bond of oneness, cheerfulness and fertility.
Similar to the geographical distinction, Rajasthan’s culture is an extensive panorama of glowing differences fostered by the steps of Indo-Aryan settlers, Jain merchants, Bhil tribal dwellers, Rajputana warriors and Muslim artisans. With its indigenous cultural ethnicity, it symbolizes the prehistoric way of living and often represents the Indian subcontinent.
The people of Rajasthan have an assorted and rich folk culture. Their highly sophisticated and distinct dance forms, classical music and arts are nothing but an extension to the land of conviviality. Rajasthan’s folk music typically is down-to-earth, often depicting daily chores and relationships and revolve around fetching water from well and bores. The local songs, being a prominent part of their heritage are ballads depicting war-time stories, stories of romance and heroic deeds.
Well known for its colourful dance forms, some of the dance forms like Kalbeliya and Ghoomar have attained international fame.
Handicrafts, wooden furniture, blue pottery, tie and dye, Sanganer prints, Zari embroidery, Bagru prints and Block prints are practiced by skilled artisans throughout the state of Rajasthan. Such beautiful art pieces are often found at stumpy prices, making the state a shopper’s paradise.
There’s so much to explore in the land of the kings. The music, arts, dance forms and festivals are just a few of the many unexplored treasures in Rajasthan. The multi-faceted desert state is waiting in anticipation for you to traverse through its sand.
Come, explore.