Gujarat is a flourishing state with cultural diversity. The rich heritage and cultural traditions are what really make it vibrant. Dating back to the time of the Harappan civilization, the state became a confluence of many religions – Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, and Buddhism.
Originally known as Gurjars, Gujaratis blend the arts, beliefs, customs, traditions, institutions, inventions, language, technology, and values influenced by these religions. Gujarat has a strong cultural influence of socio-economic-political history.
Festivals and fairs, arts and crafts, folk dances, music, and cuisine make up the cultural lifestyle of the natives of Gujarat. The customs and beliefs fuse with the traditional values and make the culture more homely.
The food in Gujarat can be described as an explosion of colors and flavors.
The majority of the Gujaratis are vegetarians. A traditional ‘Gujarati Thali’ consisting of dal (lentils), roti, rice and vegetables apart from salads, farsan, and sweet dish followed by chaas, forms the morning meal. Evening food embodies ‘bhakri-shak’ or khichdi kadhi. Mainly, the diet of the people of Gujarat includes cereals, lentils, green vegetables, fruits, milk, ghee, butter-milk, etc. A variety of cuisine sides like pickle, chutney, papad, and yogurt, serve as condiments on the main menu.
Some of the major religions practiced in Gujarat are Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. People there are god-fearing, friendly, and good-natured. They live in harmony and respect each other’s faith and beliefs. Gujaratis are often found to mingle and enjoy all religious festivals without caste or creed differences.
Gujarat is well known for its unique traditions of classical and folk music. These musical traditions are the heart and soul of Gujarat. The Gujarati culture with its traditional music and dance form of Garba, Garbi, Raas is an attraction for tourists. According to Indian legends, Raas and Garba dance forms are said to have been passed on by Lord Krishna, who spent his childhood in Gokul while he played the flute.
The state celebrates more than 3500 fairs and festivals annually which highlight the religion, culture, and traditions.
Gujarat is known as the ‘Land of the Festivals’. Every occasion there is considered to be a festival; whether it’s the turn of a season, the time for harvest, or a religious event.
Photo Credit: Hari Nandakumar
The lively Kite Festival is celebrated with colors of joy, colors of life. It’s regarded as one of the most important festivals. It signifies Gujarat’s ‘Cultural Strength’ and like the kites, Gujarat soars high to touch the skies to be the ‘best in the world.’
Holi in Gujarat is famous for various things. One of the rituals is to break earthen pots filled with buttermilk which are tied on a rope. Hundreds of people join hands to make a human pyramid so that they can reach the pot. However, a significant feature is that people who surround the pyramid prevent the group from climbing up the pyramid by throwing water at them.
In Gujarat, Diwali is celebrated for five days. Every home, whether rich or poor, is lit with the orange glow of twinkling diyas to welcome Lakshmi, Goddess of wealth and prosperity. Floral decorations, fireworks, and rangoli add grandeur to this festival which bring joy and happiness in the coming year.
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