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ART OF UTTARANCHAL
Art and Architecture of Uttaranchal is the first ever
comprehensive study on the art and arachitectural legacy
of the newly formed hill state of Uttaranchal. This
mountainous state can proudly beast of being that part of
the subcontinent wherefrom the Indian Civilisation
development and proliferated to the pan-Indian demension.
In fact, the Kadarkhand, the classical identity of this
region, formed an integral part of the Aryavart of the
Bharat. Since the first settlement of the Indo-Aryans in
the Gangetic Plains, the snow-clad Himalayan ranges of Ka\edarkhand
have been the source of perpetual attraction and
inspiration to the multitude of humanity the world over.
This region has been the grand repository of diverse
cultures since the Khaha and Kirati cultures intermingled
here ages ago. And, as the wheels of time rolled by
innumerable ethno-cultural milieus developed, frlourished
and vanished here. The imprpints of all those past
identities are still buried under the substratum.
CULTURE OF UTTARANCHAL
Every day at Parmarth Niketan there are numerous yoga and
meditation classes. These range from hatha yoga to Yoga
Nidra to special meditation classes. Some of the classes
are in English, for our frequent Western guests and others
are others are in Hindi. Details are given in the schedule
of events, Also there are frequent yoga camps and
meditation camps, including.
Uttaranchal is one of the most beautiful and enchanting
region located on the northern part of India on the valley
of Himalayas. The State, which was curved out of Uttar
Pradesh got the statehood in the year 2001. Nature has
endowed this land with so much beauty and spiritual bliss
that it is also known as Dev Bhoomi the Land of Gods.
Ganga, Yamuna and scores of other rivers originate in
Uttaranchal. Among them Ganga is the most holy and
prominent as she represents the soul of India - her rich
culture, history and civilization. In Sanskrit the name
'Himalaya' means Abode of Snow, truly characterizing the
vast permanent snow fields above the snow line. In the
heart of these majestic mountains lies the state of
'Uttaranchal' with Kumaon region in its east and Garhwal
in the west. Culture of Uttaranchal The Culture of
Uttaranchal has its roots in pre-history and has passed
through the millennia, assimilating the influences of the
waves upon waves of settlers that have sought sanctuary in
the mountains. The essence of the past, however, has
remained unchanged, with reverence for Nature and the
celebration of life being its fundamental creed. The arts,
crafts, dance and music remain centered to this day on the
many gods and goddesses, as well as the seasonal cycles.
Irrespective of the sect or religion, the entire community
participates in the festivals associated with religious or
natural events. Of late, other events associated with
history, the freedom struggle and national life have also
begun to be celebrated. The Culture of Uttaranchal finds
manifestation in the lifestyle of its people.
Music and Dance
The Himalayas have inspired generations of singers,
dancers, and musicians throughout the ages. The natural
beauty of the mountains—which inspires a deep
spirituality—and the harshness of life—which darkens the
heart with adversity and anguish—have invigorated
Uttarakhandi music, heightening its poignancy and
enriching its lyrical texture. The Grahwal and Kumaonese
are fond of music, folk dance, and songs accompanied by
local musical instruments. They go from place to place
narrating folklores, dancing and singing the praise of
their gods and goddesses. During fairs and festivals and
at harvest time, the Kumaonese often dance the Jharva,
Chandhur Chhapalior, and many other forms of folk dances.
Major dance forms of the Garhwal region are Langvir Nritya,
Barada Nati folk dance, Pandava Nritya, Dhurang, Dhuring
and Chhura, Chapeli (folk dances).
Chhura
Chhura dance is very popular among the people and is in a
way of an old experienced man teaching a young Shepherd
the tricks of his trade. Both men and women participate in
this dance.
Chapeli
It is a very famous and fast dance of Kumaun. The theme of
the dance is love and it is very romantic. Both men and
women participate in this dance and the costume is very
colourful.
Jhodha
Jhodha dance is the most famous folk dance of Kumaon.
People belonging to different caste or creed, perform this
dance, irrespective of any discrimination, in almost all
festivals.
Chanchi
Chanchi is also one of the famous folk dance of Kumaon. It
takes place only in fairs. Mostly this dance is based on
religious songs, something related to nature etc.
Cholia
Cholia is one of the famous folk dance of Kumaon which is
as old as 1000 years. Swords are being used by dancers in
this dance.
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