GHOOMAR: Spinning the color of Rajasthan’s culture

Accept it or not but we all must have danced at least once in our life on ‘Dholi Taro’ from Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. It’s barely possible to stop your body from dancing to the beats of this song. Bollywood takes delight in bringing this traditional dance to the big screen which is known as ‘Ghoomar’ from Rajasthan.

Ghoomar- the color of joy and happiness; Image Source: Pinterest; Public Domain

Ghoomar or Ghumar is the traditional folk dance from Rajasthan, also known as The Land of Kings. Ghoomar dance is a lovely genre that can be seen throughout the royal state of Rajasthan. Ghoomar's basic step is 'ghoomna' which is a spinning movement accompanied by clapping and moving in a circular motion.

Ghoomar derives its name from the term 'ghoomna,' which signifies spinning or pirouetting. Ghoomar, also known as Jhumar took birth within the Bhil tribe. The Bhils originally invented the dance form to honor Goddess Sarasvati."

The Rajput Kachhwaha clan, which ruled Jaipur, defeated the Bhil tribe for territorial control. The families were in a humble coexistence after a mandatory proprietary clash. The regal Rajput, like any other coevality, later adopted the dancing form from the Bhil community. The royal court ladies also performed the Ghoomar dance on numerous occasions. From here, the dance form came into association with the royalties. Ghoomar originated in Rajasthani people during the Rajput era.

Since then, the dance form has been performed on a variety of occasions. It became the symbol of occasions, such as Holi, greeting the newlywed wife to her in-home, laws, and Diwali. The Ghoomar dance, which is usually associated with women, also represents the beginning of womanhood.

The women are draped in gorgeously embroidered flowing long gowns called Ghagharas. Translucent or opaque veils are worn in addition to the ghagra-cholis. The dancers are embellished with Kundan, mirrors, and silver jewels. The clothes' colors and designs make the dance quite fascinating to see.

Surprisingly, the amount of zari work and embroidery on the ensemble also shows the family's wealth.

The graceful dance method is frequently performed by newlyweds at their new home, where the vivid whirling skirts create a rainbow of colors, spreading love and happiness. The colors red and green are connected with good fortune and are considered auspicious for religious ceremonies. It's also used in religious ceremonies and weddings. Ghoomar also represents the transition of young girls into womanhood in the Bhil society, making the outfit much more important.

Ghoomar dance is now a symbol of the entire state of Rajasthan. It is no longer simply related to the royalties but also serves as a cultural asset for the entire state. This genre has also spread to Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Kota-Bundi regions. Each region now has its distinct variation of this dance form.

The Ghoomar dance from Udaipur has a Garba touch; Jodhpur has added intensive limb movement to the dance, and Kota-Bundi has a distinctive catchy tune to accompany the dance.

There is no time limit for the performance. The dancers walk round and round, synchronizing with the beats, and it might last for hours. Some dancers may even perform freestyle, which gives them more energy to keep performing. The dancers' coordination is incredible to watch. Everything about them mesmerizes and encourages their audiences to join in with them, from the colors of their gowns to their step and swirl.

Overall, it is the Ghoomar dance's harmony that has made it so popular. It's a traditional folk dance that's become a state and country icon. The Ghoomar dance is culturally rich because of its history, music, costume, and dance moves.

Woman of Rajasthan spinning the colors of joy and happiness by performing Ghoomar; Image Source- unatiskills.com