Ghoomar

Encyclopedia

Ghoomar is a traditional folk dance of Rajasthan. It was Bhil tribe who performed it to worship Goddess Sarasvati which was later embraced by other Rajasthani communities. The dance is chiefly performed by veiled women who wear flowing dresses called ghaghara. It was ranked 4th in the list of “Top 10 local dances around the world” in 2013. The dance typically involves performers pirouetting while moving in and out of a wide circle. The word ghoomna describes the twirling movement of the dancers and is the basis of the word ghoomar.

According to the traditional rituals, newly married bride is expected to dance ghoomar on being welcomed to her new marital home. Ghoomar is often performed on special occasions, such as at weddings, festivals and religious occasions. which sometimes lasts for hours.

Gangaur Ghoomar Dance Academy’ was established by Maharani Rajmata Goverdhan Kumari of Santrampur in 1986, to preserve and promote Ghoomar folk dance. The Government of India awarded her the fourth highest civilian honour of the Padma Shri, in 2007, for her contributions to arts.

Origin

Ghoomar is a traditional folk dance of Bhil tribe performed to worship goddess Sarasvati which was later embraced by other Rajasthani communities. Ghoomar became popular in the Indian state of Rajasthan during the reigns of Rajput kings, and is typically performed by women during gatherings. Women perform ghoomar with ghoonghat on their head covering their face.

Ghoomar songs

As a traditional dance, Ghoomar often includes traditional songs such as “Gorband”, “Podina”, “Rumal” and “Mor Bole Re”. Songs might be centered on royal legends or their traditions.

  • “Jaipur jao to”-Traditional Rajasthani Folk Dance
  • “Chirmi Mhari Chirmali”
  • “Aave Hichki” – Traditional Rajasthani Ghoomar song
  • “Mhari Ghoomar Chye Nakhrali”
  • “Jawai Ji Pawna” – Rajasthani folk song
  • “Taara Ri Chundadi”
  • “Mharo Gorband Nakhralo”
  • “Naina Ra Lobhi”
  • “Aur Rang De “
  • “Ghoomar”

Gallery

  • Women performing Ghoomar at wedding

  • A Rajput woman performing Ghoomar

  • Women performing Ghoomar