Kutchi Culture

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Kutch [ Gujarat ] daily News Friday, March 25, 2011

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WikiPedia - Gujarat

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Etymology

[edit]History

Main article: History of Gujarat

[edit]Ancient history

See also: Indus Valley Civilization, Maitraka, and Solanki

Ancient Lothal as envisaged by theArchaeological Survey of India.

Historically, the state of Gujarat has been one of the main centers of the Indus Valley Civilization. It contains major ancient metropolitan cities from the Indus Valley such as Lothal, Dholavira, and Gola Dhoro. The ancient city of Lothal was where India's first port was established.Also, Dholavira, the ancient city, is one of the largest and most prominent archaeological sites in India, belonging to the Indus Valley Civilization. The most recent discovery was Gola Dhoro. All together, about 50 Indus Valley settlement ruins have been discovered in Gujarat.^[13]

The ancient history of Gujarat was enriched by their commercial activities. There is a clear historical evidence of trade and commerce ties with Sumer in the Persian Gulf during the time period of 1000 to 750 BC.^[13] There was a succession ofHindu/Buddhist states such as the Gupta Empire, Rashtrakuta Empire, Pala Empire and Gurjara-Pratihara Empire as well as local dynasties such as the Maitrakas and then the‎ Solankis. The 11th century history of Gujarat saw the emergence of the Muslims in the political arena of the state. The first Muslim conqueror was Mahmud of Ghazni whose conquest ofSomnath effectively ended the rule of the Solankis.^[13]

[edit]1297 CE – 1614 CE

From 1297 to 1300, Allauddin Khilji, Sultan of Delhi, destroyed Anhilwara and incorporated Gujarat into the Delhi Sultanate. After Timur's sacking of Delhi at the end of the fourteenth century weakened the Sultanate, Gujarat's Muslim Rajput governor Zafar Khan Muzaffar asserted his independence, and his son, Sultan Ahmed Shah (ruled 1411 to 1442), restructured Ahmedabad as the capital. Cambay eclipsed Bharuch as Gujarat's most important trade port. The Sultanate of Gujaratremained independent until 1576, when the Mughal emperor Akbar the Great conquered it and annexed it to the Mughal Empire. The port of Surat become the prominent and main port of India during Mughal rule. Gujarat remained a province of the Mughal empire until the Marathas occupied eastern and central Gujarat in the eighteenth century; Western Gujarat (Kathiawar and Kutch) were divided among numerous local rulers.

Bombay Presidency in 1909, northern portion

Bombay Presidency in 1909, southern portion

[edit]1614 CE – 1947 CE

Portugal was the first European power to arrive in Gujarat, acquiring several enclaves along the Gujarati coast, includingDaman and Diu as well as Dadra and Nagar Haveli. The British East India Company established a factory in Surat in 1614, which formed their first base in India, but it was eclipsed by Bombay after the English acquired it from Portugal in 1668. In late 17th century Chatrapati Shivaji the great Maratha leader attacked Surat between 1664 to 1679 and looted the city 3 times. This is marked as entry of Marathas in Gujarat.

Later in 18th century, Gujarat came under control of the Maratha Empire who dominated the politics of India. Pilaji Gaekwad, first ruler of Gaekwad dynasty, established the control over Baroda and much of Gujarat. After Battle of Panipat 1761, all Maratha general established them self as autonomous government while keeping nominal authority ofPeshwas of Pune and Chatrapati from Satara. The British East India Company wrested control of much of Gujarat from the Marathas during the Second Anglo-Maratha War. Many local rulers, notably the Maratha Gaekwads of Baroda (Vadodara), made a separate peace with the British and acknowledged British sovereignty in return for retaining local self-rule. Gujarat was placed under the political authority of the Bombay Presidency, with the exception of Baroda state, which had a direct relationship with the Governor-General of India. From 1818 to 1947, most of present-day Gujarat, including Kathiawar, Kutch, and northern and eastern Gujarat were divided into hundreds of princely states, but several districts in central and southern Gujarat, namely Ahmedabad, Broach (Bharuch), Kaira (Kheda), Panchmahal, and Surat, were ruled directly by British officials.

[edit]Indian independence movement

[edit]Post independence

After Indian independence and the partition of India in 1947, the new Indian government grouped the former princely states of Gujarat into three larger units; Saurashtra, which included the former princely states on the Kathiawadpeninsula, Kutch, and Bombay state, which included the former British districts of Bombay Presidency together with most of Baroda state and the other former princely states of eastern Gujarat In 1956 Mhagujarat. Bombay state was enlarged to include Kutch, Saurashtra, and parts of Hyderabad state and Madhya Pradesh in central India. The new state had a mostly Gujarati-speaking north and a Marathi-speaking south. Agitation by both Gujarati and Marathi nationalists for their own states led to the split of Bombay state on linguistic lines; on 1 May 1960, it became the new states of Gujarat and Maharashtra. The first capital of Gujarat was Ahmedabad; the capital was moved to Gandhinagar in 1970.

[edit]Geography

Main article: Geography of Gujarat

[edit]Forests and Wildlife

Main article: List of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries of Gujarat, India

Gir National Park

Male Asiatic lion

As per the India State Of Forest Report 2009, Gujarat has 7.46 % of its total geographical area under forest cover. As per the districts, The Dangs has the largest area under forest cover. Gujarat has 4 National parks and 21 sanctuaries. Gujarat is the only home of Asiatic Lions. Outside Africa, Gujarat is the only present natural habitat of lions. Gir Forest National Park in the south-west part of the state covers only part of the lions' habitat. Besides lions, the other big cat that can be found in the state is the leopard. Leopards are spread across large plains of Saurashtra and mountains of South Gujarat.

Saputara

Other National parks include Vansda National Park, Blackbuck National Park, Velavadar and Marine National Park, Gulf of Kutch. Wildlife sanctuaries include: Wild Ass Wildlife Sanctuary, Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, Porbandar Bird Sanctuary, Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary, Kutch Bustard Sanctuary, Narayan Sarovar Sanctuary, Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary, Anjal, Balaram-Ambaji, Barda, Jambughoda, Khavda, Paniya, Purna, Rampura, Ratanmahal, and Surpaneshwar.

Gujarat is one unique state where you can find major mountain-ranges of India. Aravalli, Sahyadri, Vindhya and Satpuraare having their presence in Gujarat. Apart from this Gir hills, Barda, Jessore, Chotila etc. are situated in different parts of the Gujarat. Girnar is famous and tallest hill of Gujarat. Saputara is the only hill-station of the state.

[edit]Major Rivers

Sardar Sarovar Project, Gujarat, partially completed (up to E.L.121.92 m)

Narmada is the biggest river of Gujarat followed by Tapi, althoughSabarmati covers the longest area in the state. Sardar Sarovar Project is built on Narmada river. Narmada is one of the major rivers of peninsular India with a length of around 1312 km. It is one of only three rivers in peninsular India that run from east to west – the others being the Tapi River and the Mahi River. Apart from thisVishvamitra, Dhadhar, Meshvo, Banas, Shedhi, Aji, Daman Ganga, Purna, Ambika, Bhadar, Vatrak etc. are other rivers of the state.

[edit]Economy

Main article: Economy of Gujarat

Gujarat has some of the largest businesses in India. Major agricultural produce of the state include cotton,groundnuts (peanuts), dates, sugar cane, milk and milk products. Industrial products include cement and petrol.

Gandhinagar, the Capital of Gujarat State

Gujarat's Contribution to India

17% of Fixed Capital Investment
16% of Industrial output
22% of India's exports
16% of Value of Output
12% of Net Manufacturing Value
10% of Factories
98% of Soda Ash production
80% of Diamond Export
78% of Salt production
62% of Petrochemical production
53% of Crude Oil (Onshore)
51% of Chemical products
37% of Groundnut production
35% of Cargo Handling
31% of Cotton production
30% of Natural Gas (Onshore)
10% of Mineral production
25% of Textile production
35% of Pharmaceutical products
Longest shoreline — 1,670 kilometres (1,040 mi)

The world's largest shipbreaking yard is in Gujarat near Bhavnagar at Alang. Reliance Industries Limited founded by Dhirubhai Ambani, operates the oil refinery at Jamnagar, which is the world's largest grass-roots refineries. India’s only Liquid Chemical Port Terminal at Dahej, developed by Gujarat Chemical Port Terminal Co Ltd. Gujarat has two of the three Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminals in the country (Dahej and Hazira). Two more LNG Terminals are proposed, at Pipavav and Mundra. Gujarat is the only state in India to have State Wide Gas Grid of 2,200 km. 87.9% of the total roads in the state are asphalt surfaced. 98.86% village connectivity with all‐weather roads, the highest in India. 100% of Gujarat's 18,000 villages have electricity connection for 24hr power through the Jyotigram Yojana. Gujarat ranks first nationwide in gas-based thermal electricity generation with national market share of over 8% and second nationwide in nuclear electricity generation with national market share of over 1%.

Gujarat has largest OFC network of more than 50,000 km. The state owned Wide Area Network is the largest IP-based ICT network in Asia Pacific Region and second largest in the world, connecting 26 districts and 225 talukas through 12,000 nodes. There are more than 900,000 internet users and all villages are connected with broadband internet. The state registered 12.8% agriculture growth in the last five years against the national average of 2%.^[16]

Over 20% of the S&P CNX 500 conglomerates have corporate offices in Gujarat.^[17]

As per RBI report, in year 2006–07, 26% out of total bank finance in India was in Gujarat.

[edit]Industrial growth

Gujarat's major cities include Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, Rajkot, Bhavnagar and Jamnagar, Karamsad - v.v.nager. In year 2010, Forbes list of world's fastest growing cities included Ahmedabad at number 3 after Chengdu and Chongqing from China. Surat is also one of the fastest growing city in India. Major resources produced by the state include cotton, groundnut, dates, sugarcane, and petrochemical products. The state is rich in calcite, gypsum, manganese, lignite, bauxite,limestone, agate, feldspar and quartz sand, and successful mining of these minerals is done in their specified areas. Gujarat produces about 98% of India's required amount of Soda Ash and gives the country about 78% of its national requirement of salt. It is one of India's most prosperous states, having a per-capita GDP significantly above India's average. Kalol, Khambhat and Ankaleshwar are today known for their oil and natural gas production. Dhuvaran has a thermal power station, which uses coal, oil and gas. Also, on the Gulf of Khambat, 50 kilometres (31 mi) southeast of Bhavnagar, is the Alang Ship Recycling Yard (the world's largest).General Motors manufactures its cars at Halol near Vadodara, Tata manufactures Nano from Sanand near Ahmedabad and AMW trucks are made near Bhuj. Surat, a city by the Gulf of Khambat, is a hub of the global diamond trade. In 2003, 92% of the world's diamonds were cut and polished in Surat.^[18]

Gujarat passed an act for the SIRs and set up the first such hub—Petroleum Chemical and Petrochemical Investment Region (PCPIR) spread across 453,000 square hectares—in Bharuch 2009. SIRs are special regions spread over a minimum 50,000 hectares where industries can buy lands directly from local owners. They are not offered concessions like tax benefits as in SEZs. However, the main benefit of SIRs is that they provide quality infrastructure and development even before units become operational. In every SIR, 55 per cent area is to be set aside for residential townships and other non-processing units.^[19]

During the period of 1960–90, Gujarat established itself as a leader in various industrial sectors including textiles, engineering, chemicals, petrochemicals, drugs and pharmaceuticals, dairy, cement and ceramics, and gems and jewellery, amongst others. A post-liberalization period saw Gujarat's State Domestic Product (SDP) rising at an average growth rate of 14% per annum in real terms (from 1994–2002). Gujarat achieved as much as 35% of augmentation in its power generation capacity during the periods 1995–96 and 2000–01. The producers (IPPs) have contributed significantly in this addition. Gujarat is one of the first few states in India to have encouraged private sector investment, some of which are already in operation. In addition, the liquid cargo (chemicals) handling port at Dahej is also set up in joint sector and made operational. At an investor's summit entitled "Vibrant Gujarat," arranged between 10 January 2007 to 13 January 2007, at Science City, Ahmedabad, the state government signed 104 Memoranda of Understandings for Special Economic Zones worth a total of 2.5 lakh crore.^[20]However, most of the investment was from domestic industry.^[21] In the fourth Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors' Summit held at Science City, Ahmedabad, in January 2009, there were 600 foreign delegates. In all, 8668 MOUs worth 12.5 lakh cr were signed, estimated to create 25 lakh new job opportunities in the state.^[22] In 2011, Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors' Summit MOUs worth 21 trillion (US$ 463 billion) were signed.

Gujarat government has a front runner in development of solar energy in the state. It has alloted 716 MW of Solar Power capacity to 34 national and international solar project developers in 2009; against the planned 500 MW capacity under its Solar Power Policy.^[23] This is expected to bring in investments of INR 12000 crore and generate employmentment for 5,000 people. It's a also biggest industrial is ceramic business around Morabi, Himatanagar.

[edit]Agriculture

Gujarat is the main producer of tobacco, cotton, and groundnuts in India. Other major food crops produced are rice, wheat, jowar, bajra, maize, Tur, and gram. Gujarat has an agricultural economy; the total crop area amounts to more than one-half of the total land area.^[24]

Animal husbandry and dairying have played a vital role in the rural economy of Gujarat. Dairy farming, primarily concerned with milk production, functions on a cooperative basis and has more than a million members. Gujarat is the largest producer of milk in India. Amul - Anand milk co-operative federation products are well known all over India, and it is Asia's biggest dairy.^[25] Among livestock raised are buffalo and other cattle, sheep, and goats. As per the results of livestock census 1997, there were 209.70 lakh livestock in Gujarat State. As per the estimates of the survey of major livestock products, during the year 2002–03, the Gujarat produced 6.09 million tonnes of milk, 385 million eggs and 2.71 million kg of wool. Gujarat also contributes inputs to industries like textiles, oil, and soap.

As in much of India, since the 1960s farmers in Gujarat have increasingly relied on extensive groundwater irrigation to maintain production. In recent years, however, experts have become increasingly alarmed at the rate of water depletion in the state. The water table in Gujarat has been falling steadily for the last 15–20 years, leading to a risk of catastrophic, irreversible salt-water intrusion into the groundwater. ^[26] The problem is exacerbated by the fact that electricity for farmers is subsidized,leaving little incentive to conserve water. To address this issue, the government of Gujarat has begun working with NGOs and universities to create new incentives for water conservation and to promote the adoption of water-saving technologies.^[27]^[28]

[edit]Demographics

Main article: Gujarati people

[show]Population Growth

The population of the Gujarat State was 50,671,017 as per the 2001 census data. The density of population is 258 persons per km², a lower density compared to other states of the country.

About 89.1% of the population of Gujarat are Hindu.^[30] Muslims account for 9.1%, Jain 1.0% and Sikh 0.1% of the population.^[30]Amongst Hindus, the deity of Krishna is famously worshiped in His form of Shrinathji throughout Gujarat.

Gujarat, as a heavily industrialized state of India, attracts lots of outsiders from various parts of India.

[edit]Language

Main article: Gujarati language

Gujarati (ગુજરાતી Gujǎrātī^?) is an Indo-Aryan language evolved from Sanskrit, and part of the greater Indo-European language family. It is native to the Indian state of Gujarat, and is its chief language, as well as of the adjacent union territories of Daman and Diu and Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

There are about 46.1 million speakers of Gujarati worldwide, making it the 26th most spoken native language in the world. Along with Romani and Sindhi, it is among the most western of Indo-Aryan languages. Gujarati was the first language of Mohandas K. Gandhi, the "father of India", Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was popularly known as "Iron Man of India". and Owing to its apparent youth with respect to its written history, the Gujarati script follows the Nagari writing system. Nagari is a derivative of the Devanagari script, with one notable difference being that the horizontal line is not utilised. Gujarati script also has a few other variations in terms of certain consonants and employs a slightly different set of symbols for numbers. Gujarati has also been the language spoken by two of South Asia`s most prominent leaders: the Father of the Indian Nation, Mahatma Gandhi and the Founder of Pakistan, Mohammed Ali Jinnah.

The majority of the population in state speak Gujarati, while people from Kutch region of Gujarat also speak in Kutchi language. Other native languages spoken in low proportions are Bhili and Gamit. Religion-wise, 71% of Hindus in Gujarat speak Gujarati while the other 29% speak Hindi. Almost 88% of the Muslims speak Gujarati while the other 12% speak Urdu. Almost all of the Jains speak Gujarati, a few speak Marwari as well. Parsi Zoroastrians also speak Gujarati as their native language. Marathi is spoken by a large number of people in Vadodara and Surat. Apart from this, English, Sindhi, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Kannada, Oriya,Malayalam, etc. is also spoken by a lower proportion.

[edit]Government and politics

Main articles: Politics of Gujarat and Government of Gujarat

Further information: Chief Ministers of Gujarat

Gujarat state symbols
Animal	Lion
Dance	Garba
Flower	galgota
Language	Gujarati
Song	Jai Jai Garavi Gujarat
Sport	Kabaddi
Tree	Mango (Keri)

Gujarat is governed by a Legislative Assembly of 182 members. Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) are elected on the basis of adult suffrage from one of 182 constituencies, of which 13 are reserved for scheduled castes and 26 forscheduled tribes. The term of office for a member of the Legislative Assembly is five years. The Legislative Assembly elects a speaker who presides over the meetings of the legislature. A governor is appointed by the President of India, and is to address the state legislature after every general election and the commencement of each year's first session of the Legislative Assembly. The leader of the majority party or coalition in the legislature (Chief Minister) or his or her designee acts as the Leader of the Legislative Assembly. The administration of the state is led by the Chief Minister.

After gaining independence in 1947, the Indian National Congress party (INC) ruled the Bombay state (which included present-day Gujarat and Maharashtra). Congress continued to govern Gujarat after the state's creation in 1960. During and after India's State of Emergency of 1975–1977, public support for the Congress Party eroded, but it continued to hold government until 1995. In the 1995 Assembly elections, the Congress lost to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) andKeshubhai Patel came to power. His government lasted only two years. The fall of that government was provoked by a split in the BJP led by Shankersinh Vaghela, who has won most of the subsequent polls. In 2001, following the loss of two assembly seats in by-elections, Keshubhai Patel resigned and yielded power toNarendra Modi. Political instability followed major riots in which rioters raided the homes of thousands of Hindus and Muslims, killing around one thousand people. The BJP retained a majority in the 2002 election, and Narendra Modi has since served as Chief Minister of the state. Modi has been denied visas to the United States for his alleged involvement in the ethnic cleansing in Gujarat.^[31] On 1 June 2007, Narendra Modi became the longest serving Chief Minister of Gujarat.^[32]^[33]On 23 December 2007, the BJP won the state elections in Gujarat and Narendra Modi became the chief minister for the third time in a row.

In the recent civic elections in 2010, even Muslims and Christians voted whole-heartedly for Mr. Modi and his development initiatvies resulting in the BJP getting 80% victories.

[edit]Revenues of government

This is a chart of trend of own tax revenues (excluding the shares from Union tax pool) of the Government of Gujarat assessed by the Finance Commissions from time to time with figures in millions of Indian rupees.

Year	Own tax revenues
2000	104,818
2005	138,964

[edit]Districts

Districts of Gujarat

Main article: List of districts of Gujarat

On 1960-05-01, Gujarat was created out of the 17 northern districts of former State of Bombay. These districts were further subdivided later on. There are 26 administrative districts in the state (as of 2007).

" Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel" was independent India's first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister; played a key role in political integration of India; conferred Bharat Ratna in 1991.

[edit]Culture of Gujarat

Main article: Culture of Gujarat

[edit]Hinduism

Gujarat was a part of the Harappan civilization. Gujarat is home to Hindu saints of all castes. Sant Dhudhalinath and Sant Girnari Velnathji were Adivasis, Sant Bhojo Nachabkha and Madhavagar were Shudras, Mahatma Gandhi and Lala Bhagat were Vaish, Sant Kilha was a Kshatriya,^[34] and Lakulisa and Chakradhara were Brahmins.

Many Hindu religious traditions developed in Gujarat.

For example, Pasupata Saivism was established in Gujarat. Gujarat is the birth-place of Lord Shiva's avatar, Lakulisa (Staff-God). He established the Pasupata Shaivite tradition (one of the six major schools of Shaivism) in 2 or 3 AD. According to some traditions, he was born in Kayarohana or Kayavatara in Saurashtra while other traditions hold that it was Karavana, in the modern-day town of Dabhoi Taluka near Baroda,^[35] another that it was Ulkapuri (modern Avakhal)^[36] and another that it was in Braoch or Bharuch.^[37] From Gujarat it spread north to Kashmir,^[38] South to Tamil Nadu,^[39] East to Nepal^[40] (where the Pashupatinath Temple stills exists popularly.)

Bhakti movement

The Bhakti movement was very popular in Gujarat where devotees of both Islam and Hinduism focused worship of God, trying to rid any separations based on faith in God.

Swami Chakradhara was a major figure in the Bhakti movement, born in Gujarat in 1194,^[41] and he is believed to be the avatar of Vishnu. Chakradhara Maharaja established the Manhubhava Vaishnavite sect, which spread to Maharashtra as well. The sect still exists today in Gujarat and Maharashtra.

Sant Kilha was another Vaishnavite saint of Gujarat born to a Subedar (army man) father.^[34] He was the disciple of Krishnasdas (of Jaipur) and became his successor at the seat of Galta — Kilha's branch became known as the "Tapasa branch."^[42] Besides Ram Bhakti (devotion to Lord Rama), he was also inclined towards yog-saghana and this is why he was made acharya of the Galta Gaddi.^[43] He is said to be the founder of the Khati sect.^[44] Jalaram, a devotee of Lord Rama is another popular figure. Jalaram's birthday is still celebrated by Gujarati people (in Gujarat and abroad) as Jalaram Jayanti.

[edit]Jainism

Gujarat is a stronghold for the Jain community. Jainism preaches non-violence to all living creatures and vegetarianism. There are a large number of beautiful Jain temples in Gujarat. The Palitana temple (near Bhavnagar) is the biggest temple of Jain people. Some of the Jains have heavily influenced the cuisine of Gujarat with the famous Gujarati thali containing small vegetarian dishes. Morality in business is an important feature of Jain culture. The bania (traders) caste, predominant in Gujarat, comprises followers from both the Jain and Vaishnava traditions.

[edit]Islam

Gujarat, with a shoreline on the Arabian Sea, was one of the first regions in India where the Muslims migrated to after the founding of Islam. King Arjun of Gujarat permitted Muslim traders from Ormuz to build a mosque within his realm.

The Sufi saints are very popular in Gujarat. Shaykh Makhu was a Sufi saint of the Shattari lineage.^[45] "Since Gujarat is situated on the western border of India, there was a direct interaction with people of Arabia and Persia. Many Gujarati Saints and Sufis became famous. Among them names of Sheikh Ganjul Lim (1381), Syed Burhanuddin (1411) and Sheikh Wajihuddin Gujarati are well known."^[46]

The 'Khojas', Muslims of the Shi'a Nizari Ismaili Satpanth tradition are historically rooted in Gujarat since the 14th century, though the first Ismaili Muslim community in Gujarat dates back to the missionaries of the Fatimid Empire in 1067. http://www.iis.ac.uk/view_article.asp?ContentID=104823

[edit]Zoroastrianism

Following the fall of the Sassanid Empire in 651, many Zoroastrians migrated, including several groups who settled in Gujarat. The descendants of those refugees are today known as the Parsis and Irani. The year of arrival on the subcontinent cannot be precisely established, and Parsi legend and tradition assigns various dates to the event.

They originally settled along coastal Gujarat in villages like Sanjan in Valsad district, along the Gujarat-Maharashtra border. The Qissa-i Sanjan is a poem discussing the Zoroastrians' landing in Sanjan through the generosity of Rana Jada and being allowed to practice their customs.

Parsis are generally more affluent than other Indians and are stereotypically viewed as among the most Anglicised and "Westernised" of the various minority groups.^[47] They have also played an instrumental role in economic development with several of the best-known business conglomerates of India run by Parsi-Zoroastrians, including the Tata, Godrej, and Wadia families.

Similarities with Hinduism is seen in Zoroastrianism in beliefs that the cow is very sacred. In the 9th chapter of the Vendidad of the Avesta, the purificatory power of cow urine is dilated upon.^[48] It is declared to be a panacea for all bodily and moral evils. It is drunk as well as applied externally.^[48] Urine of the bull, called "nirang" is brought to the house of an orthodox Parsi every morning and is (like cow milk) applied to the face, hands, and feet.^[48]

There were several Zoroastrian organizations formed to educate the Parsis on their heritage. Rahnumai Maznayasnam Sabha was established in 1851 by English-educated Parsis like Naoroji Furdunji with funds supplied by K.N.Kama. Much attention focused on the improved of women in society; the purdah was abolished, the age of marriage raised, and education promoted.^[47]

[edit]Religious traditions

In Gujarat, there have been several great religious figures. Sant Dadu Dayal (1554–1603), a saint-poet and a major Bhakti figure from Ahmedabad treated equally both Rama and Allah as names of God and became popular in Northern India. He wrote, "The illusion of Allah and Rama hath been dispelled by my mind; since I see Thee in all"^[49]

Gujarat is also the home of Mahatma Gandhi, who preached the unity between all religions and became a worldwide figure for peaceful struggle against tyranny.

Modhera Sun Temple

Somnath Temple

Dwarkadheesh temple

[edit]Religious sites

Dwarakadheesh temple in Dwarka is one of the important temples dedicated to Krishna. On the tip of the Arabian Sea, it was home to Krishna. The Rann of Kutchch covers a large portion of western Gujarat, and is world-famous for its rare ecosystem, fossils, wildlife and terrain.

Palitana Temples are a complex of Jain temples situated 51 km south west of Bhavnagar. There are 863 temples from the base to the peak of the Shatrunjaya hill, where the Palitana temples are located.

Somnath Temple located in the Prabhas Kshetra near Veraval in Saurashtra, on the western coast of Gujarat, India, is one of the twelve Jyotirlings (golden lingas) or symbols of the God Shiva. It is mentioned in the Rig Veda. Somnath means "The Protector of Moon God". The Somnath Temple is known as 'the Shrine Eternal', as the temple has been destroyed six times, but was rebuilt on each occasion.

Modhera Sun Temple is famous for its rare position as specifically and uniquely designed for the worship of the Sun, Lord Surya. While the main temple is beautifully and intricately designed with complex architecture, painting, and sculptures, there is a central pond. Surrounding it stand 108 small temples for each of the Sun God's 108 names.

Shankheshwar Jain Temples are dedicated to the 23rd Tirthankar, Lord Parshvanath. It is believed that this idol was revealed by Lord Krishna himself, by the teachings of Neminath the 22nd Tirthankar. It is near Ahmedabad.

Patan houses 84 magnificent Jain Temples built by Samrat Kumarpal, who was a staunch disciple of Acharya Hemachandra, a Jain monk and scholar.

Girnar is an epitome of communal harmony & amicable relations among Jains and Hindus. This high-rising steep hill houses shrines of both major religions. One dedicated to Neminath or Arisht Nemi, the 22nd tirthankara, where he is believed to attain nirvana, and another dedicated to Guru Dattatreya, a Hindu deity.

Ambaji: This temple is dedicated to goddess Ambaji. It is situated on the Arasur Hill and can be approached by road from Abu Road in Rajasthan, as well as from all other important places in Gujarat. A folk drama called 'Bhavai' is performed in the courtyards of the temple.

Dakor: This temple town dedicated to Lord Krishna is situated about 90 km from Ahmedabad. The temple of Ranchodrai has the idol of Lord Krishna, which is believed to have been brought from Dwarka by a devotee named Bodana.

Becharaji Temple: This temple is another important seat of Mother Goddess at Becharaji in Mehsana district. This temple is thronged by Hindu devotees, especially childless women.

Chotila : This place is in Surendranagar district where there is a famous temple of Goddess Chamunda situated.

Sidi Saiyyed Mosque: The Sidi Sayed Mosque in Ahmedabad is a famous and ancient mosque of the city. The mosque was built in the year 1411. The elegant mosque was built by Sidi Sayed, a slave of Sultan Ahmed Shah. The mosque is famous all over the country because of its fantastic architecture and exquisite jali work (perforated stone lattices).

Rani Rupmati's Mosque: Rani Rupmati was the Hindu wife of Sultan Mehmed Beghara. Rani Rupmati mosque was built between 1430 to 1440, having three domes supported by pillars, with the central dome slightly elevated. It is located at Ahmedabad. The mosque has richly carved minarets, balcony windows, and jali. Its three domes are linked together by a flat roof. Muuk-Khana is a special attraction of this mosque.

Kutbi Mazar: A colossal monument raised in the memory of Syedna Qutubuddin Shaheed, the high priest of the Dawoodi Bohra community.

Shah Alam Roza: Shah Alam Roza is the mosque and tomb of Saint Shah Alam. Here the brass doors are set in carved marble frames. The floor is tiled of black and white marble. Its dome and minars shows great architectural work of the sultanate era.

[edit]Historic sites

Dholavira's sophisticated water reservoir.

Lothal is the site of the ancient ruins of the first Indian port, dating from the time of the Indus Valley Civilization. Dholavira, the ancient city, locally known as Kotada Timba, is one of the largest and most prominent archaeological sites in India belonging to the Indus Valley Civilization. It is located on the Khadir island in the Kutch district of Gujarat — the island is surrounded by water in the monsoon season. The site was occupied from about 3000 BC for about a millennium, declining slowly after about 2100, briefly abandoned and then reoccupied, finally, by villagers among its ruins, until about 1450. Gola Dhoro, dating from 2500–2000 BCE, was recently discovered near the village of Bagasra. Shell bangles, copper, and beads were found there.^[50]

[edit]Fairs and festivals

[edit]Fairs

Around more than 1000 festivals are celebrated in Gujarat—the state is known as the land of fairs and festivals. Some of these fairs and festivals are as follows:

Bhavnath Mahadev Mela (February)

The Bhavnath Mahadev Temple, situated at the foot of Mount Girnar in the city of Junagadh, is the site of the Bhavnath Mahadev fair held for five days in February, during the festival of Mahashivratri. The Mahapuja of Lord Shiva takes place at midnight in this temple on the 14th day of the dark half of the month of Magh. When the puja (prayer ceremony) starts, Naga Bavas (naked sages) living nearby move towards the fair seated on elephants, holding flags and blowing conch shells. It is firmly believed that Lord Shiva himself visits the shrine on this occasion. Visitors are served free meals by the organizers. Special stalls sell idols, rosaries, or holy beads (brought by vendors from Ayodhya and Mathura), utensils of brass and copper, sweets and fruits. The Bhavnath Mahadev Temple is surrounded by many equally ancient and holy places.

Dangs Darbar (March)

Dangs Darbar is the name of the annual fair held every year in Ahwa, the most important town in the Dangs a few days before Holi. The Dangs is one of the most delightful districts of Gujarat and is located high in the Saputara hills, the original home of the adivasis, the tribal population of Gujarat. The name "Darbar" dates back to the time of the British, when a darbar of Rajas and Naiks of neighbouring area used to assemble there. Today it is called Jamabandi Darbar, and the District Collector officiates at it. Thousands of tribal people flock to Ahwa from all over the district, dressed in bright colours, sounding the Shehnai, and beating their drums. Folk dances, dramas, and songs enliven the air during the festival.

Chitra — Vichitra Mela (March)

This fair, one of the largest purely Adivasi (tribal) fairs, is attended by around 60,000 to 70,000 tribal people. It takes place every year in the village of Gunbhakhari in Sabarkantha district, very near the borders of Rajasthan. It is held a fortnight after Holi, the festival of colours. The site of the fair is attractive as the temple overlooks the rivers Sabarmati, Akul, and Vyakul. The name of the fair is derived from Chitravirya and Vichitraviraya, the sons of King Shantanu, who are believed to have lived there and been cured of diseases which afflicted them. The fair attracts large numbers of Bhils (tribals) who come from all the surrounding districts using every imaginable form of transport. The Garasis and Bhil tribals dress in their customary colourful costumes. The costume of the men generally consists of a blue shirt, dhoti, and a red or saffron turban. Women don ghaghras (embroidered skirts), which have a circumference of as much as 20 yards (18 m), and are covered from head to foot with ornate and heavy silver jewellery. They use liquid kumkum (vermilion) to colour their cheeks and lips a brilliant red, while their eyes are outlined with kajal (kohl). Every group that comes to the fair carries its own drum making the atmosphere come alive with the incessant beat of numerous drums. The women sing folk songs, and everyone dances. The dancing and drumming continue for hours until everyone is exhausted. Over a hundred stalls hold food and drink and sweets of various kinds. Silver ornaments can be bought, and household articles, as well. Here, as in other fairs, there is a giant wheel and a merry-go-round which never ceases to spin.

Sanskruti kunj Fair

The Sanskruti kunj Festival shows the different cultures of the states of India. It is organised in the winter sesion in the capital city, Gandhinagar. All the competitors of India come during this fair and show their state's culture & dance.

[edit]Festivals

Other than those festivals observed throughout India, there are festivities specific to Gujarat.

Navaratri celebrations in Ahmedabad.

Makar Sankranti and Kite Flying Festival (14 January)

The Kite Flying Festival takes place in mid January and marks the time when the Sun’s direct rays reach the Tropic of Capricorn after the winter solstice. It is celebrated with lots of folk music and dance as well as kite flying. People of Gujarat gather on terraces to fly kites of various colours to celebrate Makar Sankranti or Uttrayana, the welcome to the sun after the cold winter months. Glass strengthened threads of the Indian fighter kites are matched against each other in the air — the kite fighter who cuts the other thread is the victor. At night, kites with Chinese lanterns are flown and held aloft. Food such as Undhiya, sugar cane juice and local sweets is typically served to celebrate the day.

Dance Festival — Modhera (January)

Resting on a knoll in the village of Modhera are the ruins of the 11th century Sun Temple. The outer walls of the temple are covered with sculptures in which the figures of Surya, the sun god, are prominent. The Sun Temple is the site of an annual festival of Indian classical dances organized by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat. The idea is to present classical dance forms in an atmosphere they were originally presented in.

The Kutch Mahotsav (February–March)

The ‘Kutch Festival’ or the ‘Rann festival’ is celebrated at the time of the Shiv Ratri in February/ March. The centre of the festival is Bhuj in Kutch. It has crafts, fairs and folk dances and music and cultural shows, all organized by the Gujarat Tourism. Tours are also conducted out to the ruins of Dhola Vera, a city that was once a part of the Indus Valley civilization.

Bhadra Purnima (September)

The full moon of Bhadrapad is one of the four most important festival days of the year when farmers and agriculturists come to Ambaji, a place that derives its name from Goddess Ambaji, whose shrine is located there. On this occasion, a large fair is organized on full moon days. In the evening, performances of Bhavai, the folk drama of the state, is held and Garba programmes are organized. The devout attend readings of the Saptashati, the seven hundred verses in praise of the goddess, and visit the temple for a darshan (worship) of her. The Ambaji shrine is the principal shrine of the goddess in Gujarat, and its origins are still unknown. The Temple of Ambaji is recognized as one of the original Shakti Pithas (religious texts) where, according to the ancient Scriptures, the heart of the goddess Ambaji fell to earth when her body was dismembered. A triangular Vishwa Yantra, inscribed with figures and the syllable 'Shree' in the centre, represents the deity. There is no idol, which testifies the temple's antiquity. Idol worship became popular much later.

[edit]Major Cities

Ahmedabad Clockwise from top: Skyline at Ashram Road, Sidi Saiyyed ni Jali,Kankaria Lakefront, Ellis Bridge, Dilli Darwaja, Hatheesing Temple

Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara and Rajkot are major cities of the Gujarat. Ahmedabad (Gujarati: અમદાવાદ Amdāvād,Hindi: अहमदाबाद) is the sixth largest metropolitan city in India and largest in Gujarat, with a population of approximately 6.2 million.^[51] Located on the banks of the River Sabarmati, the city is the administrative centre of Ahmedabad districtand was the capital of Gujarat from 1960 to 1970; the capital was shifted to Gandhinagar thereafter. In colloquial Gujarati, the city is commonly called Amdavad.

Ahmedabad was founded in 1411 by Sultan Ahmed Shah to serve as the capital of the Gujarat Sultanate, and was named after him. Under the British rule, a military cantonment was established and the city infrastructure was modernized and expanded. Though incorporated into the Bombay Presidency during British rule, Ahmedabad remained the most important city in the Gujarat region. The city established itself as the home of a booming textile industry, which earned it the nickname the "Manchester of the East."^[52]^[53] The city was at the forefront of the Indian independence movement in the first half of the 20th century.^[54] It was the centre of many campaigns of civil disobedience to promote workers' rights civil rights and political independence.

With the creation of the state of Gujarat in 1960, Ahmedabad gained prominence as commercial capital of the state. The city is witnessing a major construction boom and population increase. A rising centre of education, information technology and scientific industries, Ahmedabad remains the cultural and commercial heart of Gujarat and much of western India.

Karamsad is a city and a municipality in Anand district in the Indian state of Gujarat. It is part of the Chchagaam Gol (Circle of Six Villages). Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, one of India's greatest leaders in the Indian Independence Movement grew up in Karamsad. It was also the home of his elder brother Vithalbhai Patel, who was also an important political leader. The Patel brothers lived with their two elder brothers and one younger brother and sister, and parents Jhaverbhai and Ladba Patel in a mud-brick house adjacent to his family's farm holdings. This house is preserved to date as a memorial to Patel.

Surat (Gujarati: સુરત, Hindi: सूरत) formerly known as Suryapur, is the Commercial Capital City of Gujarat, also India's ninth largest metropolitan city. The city proper is the one of the most populous cities in the world. Surat is the administrative capital of Surat district and Surat Metropolitan Region.

Surat Fort

The city is situated on the left bank of the Tapti River, 14 miles from its mouth. The Population of Surat with its twin city Navsari is above 6.2 million as of 2010. A moat divides the older parts of the city, with its narrow streets and handsome houses, and the newer suburbs. The city is largely recognized for its textile and diamond businesses. It is also known as the diamond capital of the world and the textile capital of India.^[55] 92% of the world's diamonds are cut and polished in Surat.^[55] Surat is also the Third cleanest city in India after Chandigarh and Mysore. Surat was once the largest city in India.^[55] It has one of the highest GDP growth rates in India at 11.5% as of 2008.^[55]Surat was the primary port of India during the Mughal period, a distinction it lost to Bombay during the British Raj.^[55]

Vadodara (Gujarati: વડોદરા (help·info)Vaḍodǎrā), formerly Baroda (Gujarati: બરોડા Baroḍā), is the third most-populated city in the Indian state of Gujarat after Ahmedabad and Surat. It is one of four cities in the state with a population of over 1 million,^[56] the other being Rajkot and the two cities listed above, although it has a massive population of over 3 million. It is also known as the Sayaji Nagari (Sayaji's City after its famous ruler, Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III) or Sanskari Nagari (The City of Culture, a reference to its status as the Cultural Capital of Gujarat). Vadodara or Baroda, formerly the capital city of the Gaekwar State, is situated on the banks of the Vishwamitri, a river whose name derived from the great saint Rishi Vishwamitra. It is located southeast of Ahmedabad. It is the administrative headquarters of Vadodara District.

Laxmi Vilas Palace at Vadodara

Vadodara is home to almost 1.6 million people^[51] (as of 2005), the beautiful Lakshmi Vilas Palace and the Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (M.S.U.) which is the largest university in Gujarat. Its famous for various faculties and departments, including the Fine Arts, Performing Arts, Technology, Management, Psychology, Social Work, Law and Medicine streams. It has a high literacy rate by Indian standards of 78% (2001). Major industries include petrochemicals, engineering, pharmaceuticals, plastics andForex. Famous companies such as ABB, Reliance Industries, Larsen and Toubro, IPCL,ONGC and Sun Pharmaceuticals all have a strong presence in this city, also it has presence of IT multi-national companies.

Rajkot (Gujarati: રાજકોટ Rājkot (listen) (help·info)) is the 4th largest city in the state of Gujarat, India. Rajkot is the 28th urban agglomeration in India, with a population more than 1.43 million as on 2008.^[51]^[57] Rajkot is ranked 22nd in The world's fastest growing cities and urban areas from 2006 to 2020.^[58]

Watson Museum At Rajkot

Rajkot is a city of Gujarat state in India and administrative headquarters of the Rajkot District, located on the banks of the Aji River and Niari River. Rajkot was the capital of the then Saurashtra state from 15 April 1948 to 31 October 1956 before merging in bilingual Bombay State on 1 November 1956. Rajkot was merged into Gujarat State from bilingual Bombay state on 1 May 1960.

Apart from this, Bhuj, Bhavnagar, Junagadh, Jamnagar are also cities with big urban population.

[edit]Education

Main articles: List of educational institutions in Gujarat and Education in Gujarat

Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad

The Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSHSEB) are in charge of the schools run by theGovernment of Gujarat. However, most of the private schools in Gujarat are affiliated to the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) board. Gujarat has 13 universities and four agricultural universities.

Gujarat is also known for many national level institutions. The Space Applications Centre (SAC) is an institution for space research and satellite communication in Ahmedabad, India, under the aegis of theIndian Space Research Organization (ISRO). Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, a renowned scientist, industrialist, and visionary Gujarati, played an important role in it. He also founded Physical Research Laboratory, a research institute encompasses Astrophysics, Solar System, and cosmic radiation. He also envisionedIndian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, one of the internationally reputed management research institute that is located in Gujarat's commercial capital Ahmadabad and is the top ranked management institutes in the country.^{[citation needed]}

The clock tower in Gujarat University, Ahmedabad

Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute has been established under Council for Scientific and Industrial Research Govt. of India at Bhavnagar. It was inaugurated by Late Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India on 10 April 1954, with a view to carry out research on marine salt, and salt from inland lakes and sub-soil brine. It is working on reverse osmosis, electro membrane process, salt and marine chemicals, analytical science, marine biotechnology, and other related fields.

B.K. School of Business Management is ranked 6th in terms of financial Management. K. S. School of Business Management is also an MBA College in Gujarat University providing a unique five year's integrated MBA Cource. The National Institute of Design (NID) in Gandhinagar is internationally acclaimed as one of the foremost multi-disciplinary institutions in the field of design education and research. In addition, Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA) is one of the leading sectoral institution in rural management. IRMA is a unique institution in the sense that it provides professional education to train managers for rural management. It is the only one of its kind in all Asia.

Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology located in Surat is one of the best engineering colleges in India. It is one of the 20 National Institutes of Technology created by the central government and is a deemed university. It has students from all over India and some foreign students as well. Also, there is Nirma University ranked 14th in self-financed engineering colleges in India. Gujarat Science City,^[59] is a government initiative to draw more students towards education in science, which hosts India's first IMAX 3D theatre, an energy park, a hall of science, an amphitheatre, and dancing musical fountains among others.

Apart from that, Mudra Institute of Communication Ahmedabad (MICA) is one of the most famous institutes for mass communication and is well-renowned across India. IIT Indian institute of technology was established at Gandhinagar in the year 2008. IIT Gandhinagar is mentored by IIT Bombay. IIT'S first batch started on 1 August 2008, at a temporary building of government college, Chandkheda, Gandhinagar.The Institute of Seismological Research (ISR) has been established by the Science and Technology Department, Government of Gujarat in 2003 and is registered as a Society.ISR campus is at Raisan, Gandhinagar in a sprawling and picturesque area on the banks of Sabarmati river. Aims and objectives include assigning optimum seismic factors for buildings in different regions and long-term assessment of earthquake potential. The ISR is the only institute in India fully dedicated to seismological research and is planned to be developed into a premier International institute in few years time.

[edit]Literature

Main article: Gujarati literature

Govardhanram Tripathi

Gujarati literature's history may be traced to 1000 AD.Since then literature has flourished till date. Well known laureates of Gujarati literature are Hemchandracharya, Narsinh Mehta, Mirabai, Akho, Premanand Bhatt, Shamal Bhatt, Dayaram,Dalpatram, Narmad, Govardhanram Tripathi, Gandhiji, K. M. Munshi, Umashankar Joshi, Suresh Joshi, Pannalal Pateland Rajendra Shah .

Kavi Kant,Zaverchand Meghani and Kalapi are famous Gujarati poets.

Gujarat Vidhya Sabha, Gujarat Sahitya Sabha, and Gujarati Sahitya Parishad are Ahmedabad based literary institutions promoting the spread of Gujarati literature. Saraswatichandra is a landmark novel by Govardhanram Tripathi. Writers like Kavi Nanalal, Sundaram, Aanand Shankar Dhruv, Khabardar, Balwantray Thakore, Suresh Dalal, Harindra Dave, Jyotindra Dave, Tarak Mehta, Harkisan Mehta, Chandrakant Bakshi, Ashvini Bhatt, Vinod Bhatt, Kanti Bhatt, Makarand Dave, Gunvant Shah and Varsha Adalja have influenced Gujarati thinkers.

A huge contribution to Gujarati language literature came from the Swaminarayan paramhanso, like Bramhanand, Premanand, with prose like Vachanamrut and poetry in the form of bhajans.

Gujarati theatre owes a lot to Bhavai. Bhavai is a folk musical performance of stage plays. Ketan Mehta and Sanjay Leela Bhansali explored artistic use of bhavai in films such as Bhavni Bhavai, Oh Darling! Yeh Hai India and Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. Dayro (gathering) involves singing and conversation reflecting on human nature.

[edit]Gujarati Films

Main article: Gujarati cinema

Gujarati cinema show times

Gujarati film industry is one of the largest regional and vernacular film industry of India.It all started in year 1932 when first Gujarati film "Narsinh Mehta" was released. "Bhavni Bhavai" released in the year 1980 was directed by Ketan Mehta. It boasted of superlative performances, fine camerawork and won awards like – National Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration, National Film Award for Best Art Direction for Meera Lakhia and another award at the Nantes festival in France. In 1992," Hun Hunshi Hunshilal", directed by Sanjiv Shah was sought to be post-modern. Other notable films are "Lohi Ni Sagai", "Manvini Bhavai", "Meru Malan", etc. Recently "Little Zizou", a 2009 film in Hindi, Gujarati, and English, written and directed by Sooni Taraporevala won "Silver Lotus Award" or "Rajat Kamal" in 'National Film Award for Best Film on Family Welfare' category at 56th National Film Awards.

Many famous actors have worked in Gujarati film industry like Sanjeev Kumar, Rajendra Kumar, Bindu (actress), Asha Parekh, Kiran Kumar, Upendra Trivedi, Arvind Trivedi, Aruna Irani, Mallika Sarabhai, Asrani, Naresh Kanodia, Sneh Lata,Jayshree T., Paresh Rawal, Niraj Vora, Dilip Joshi, Ayesha jhulka, Himesh Reshmiya etc.

[edit]Museums

Gujarat's museums are run by the state's Department of Museums located at the principal state museum, Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery. Other famous museums include:

"The Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya"

The Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya in Ahmedabad is run by a public trust established in 1951. The museum's new premises were built in 1963. The museum's main objective was to house the personal memorabilia of Mahatma Gandhi. Consequently, the exhibits on view depict the vivid and historic events of Gandhiji's life. There are books, manuscripts, and photostat copies of his correspondence, photographs of Gandhiji with his wife Kasturba and other ashram associates, life size oil paintings, and actual relics like his writing desk.

"Calico Museum of Textiles"

The Calico Museum of Textiles at Ahmedabad, India, is the premier textile museum of the country, and one of the most celebrated institutions of its kind in the world for its distinguished and comprehensive collection of textiles and artifacts. Ahmedabad Tourism

"The Vadodara Museum"

The Vadodara Museum in Vadodara, located in the popular Sayaji Bagh, the museum houses a collection which belonged to the former maharaja Sayaji Rao Gaekwad. Indian rulers during the Raj often collected all kinds of European art and other knick knacks. Largely being the personal collection of the maharaja, the exhibits span across centuries and continents, as well as diverse art forms. There are Greek and Roman sculpture with European paintings of earlier periods. The Asian section has items from Burma, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, China, and Japan made of wood, ivory, bronze and pottery.

"Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum"

The impressive Laxmi Vilas Palace, in the Indo Saracenic style of architecture, was once the residence of the Gaekwad family. Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum in Vadodara, located in the sprawling grounds of the palace complex, is a multi purpose museum and houses the Gaekwad family's rich collection of an treasures.

"The Gandhi Museum"

The Gandhi Museum in Bhavnagar showcases a rare collection of photographs relating to the life of Mahatma Gandhi are on view at the Gandhi Museum. These recreate the significant events of Gandhiji's life. Also displayed are documents, letters, and his personal relics. The collection of audio-visual material includes microfilms, a voice library, prayers, and lecture records.

"The Watson Museum"

The statue of Queen Victoria, unveiled by theLord Curzon in 1897 AD at Watson Museum

The 'Watson Museum' in Rajkot, is a museum of human history and culture. Its collections precious objects of colonial period of India and History of Rajkot. It is amongst the largest and most comprehensive museum in State of Gujarat. Watson Museum is considered to be the finest amongst 7 such museums located across Saurashtra (region) and run by the State Government because it holds invaluable articles and state-of-the-art facilities like photography, guide service, reference library and sales counter of the museum's publication.

"The Lakhota museum"

The 'Lakhota Museum' in Jamnagar, is a museum of history and royalty of jamnagar. It was built in center of Lakhota Lake. It was built by Jam Ranjitsinh.

Other museums include:

Kite Museum in Ahmedabad,

The Lady Wilson Museums — Dharampur, Valsad.

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Museum,Surat.

SardarVallabhbhai Patel Museum – Karamsad

[edit]Transportation

[edit]Air

Gujarat has ten airports, the most of any Indian state as per the list of airports in India. All are domestic airports except Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, which also offers international flights.

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad

[edit]International airport

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (Ahmedabad) — Many domestic as well as international flights operate from here.

[edit]Domestic airports

Bhavnagar Airport — Bhavnagar Airport, 9 km from the city of Bhavnagar.
Bhuj Airport — In the Bhuj city of Gujarat. This airport has been recently been named Shyamji Krishna Verma, Bhuj Airport.
Jamnagar Airport — 10 km from the City of Jamnagar.
Kandla Airport (Gandhidham) — situated at Kandla, near Gandhidham, in Kutch district.
Keshod Airport (Junagadh) — Keshod Airport is found 3 km from Keshod city in Junagadh District.
Porbandar Airport — is situated 5 km from the city of Porbandar.
Rajkot Airport — 4 km from the city of Rajkot.
Surat Airport — Recently inaugurated on Magdalla Road.
Vadodara Airport — Integrated Terminal Building will be completed by 2010, enabling international fights to Vadodara.
Mehsana Airport — Meshana Airport is about 2 km from Meshsana city
Amreli Airport –

[edit]Future Airports

Zalawad Airport — Future airport for Surendranagar area.
Fedara (Ahmedabad) — Proposed International Airport near Fedara village of Bhāl region.
Ambaji (Danta) near Palanpur, Banaskantha

[edit]Rail

Main page: Railway stations in Gujarat

Gujarat comes under the Western Railways zone of the Indian Railways. Vadodara Railway Station is the busiest railway station in Gujarat and the fourth busiest railway station in India.It is situated on the Mumbai – Delhi Western Railway Mainline. Other important railway stations are Surat Railway Station, Ahmedabad Railway Station and Rajkot Railway Station. Indian Railways is planning Delhi–Mumbai dedicated rail freight route passing through the state.

Work on Rs 1,100 crore (Rs 11 billion) first phase of the metro rail project in Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar will start by 2011 and the line is expected to be operational within 2–3 years. The first phase of the metro rail project will cover a distance of 32.65 kilometre in the north-south direction between Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad and 10.90 kilometre east-west corridor between Kalupur and Thaltej.^[19]

[edit]Sea

Kandla Port is one of the largest ports serving Western India. Other important ports in Gujarat are the Port of Navlakhi, Port of Magdalla,Port of Pipavav, Port of Porbandar and the privately owned Mundra Port.

[edit]Road

Main articles: List of National Highways in Gujarat and List of state highways in Gujarat

[edit]Local transportation

[edit]Bus

Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) is the primary body responsible for providing the bus services within the state of Gujarat and also with the neighboring states. It is a public transport corporation providing bus services and public transit within Gujarat and to the other states in India. Apart from this, there are a number of services provided by GSRTC.

Mofussil Services — It connects major cities, smaller towns and villages within Gujarat.
Intercity Bus Services — It also connects major cities — Ahmedabad, Vadodara (Baroda) and Rajkot.
Interstate Bus Services — It connects various cities of Gujarat with the neighboring states of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan.
City Services — GSRTC also provides city bus services at Surat, Baroda, Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad, within the state of Gujarat.
Parcel Services — This service is used for transporting goods.

Apart from this, the GSRTC provides special bus services for festivals, industrial zones, schools, colleges and pilgrim places.

[edit]Auto rickshaws

Autorickshaw

Auto rickshaw is an important and frequently used mode of transport in Gujarat. The Government of Gujarat is promotingBicycles to reduce pollution.

Gujarat the Land of Legends

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Gujarat the Land of Legends

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Huge, Spectacular, brilliant Vintage Antique Tribal Masterpiece Indian Tapestry Wall Hanging Throw (this is a Cow Quilt, used to decorate cows on auspicious days) in every conceivable color with exquisite intricate heavy "Banjara" Hand Embroidery in silk & linen threads and large Mirror work from the states of Rajasthan & Gujarat in Western India, Size: 64" X 58"

NH9899

A Mystical Tapestry made of vintage Banjara quilt patchwork in vibrant colors of rural India! The Banjara quilt style is very specific to western Rajasthan and parts of Sindh in Pakistan.You are looking at a very vibrant & stunning work of folk craftsmanship, one of the most Ethnic pieces you've probably ever seen. The "Banjara" style is one of the most prized styles of hand embroidery, never seen in any departmental store in the U.S and limited to collector's sites. What distinguishes this memorable style of embroidery is the fact that it covers every inch of fabric with exuberant colors of rural western India. This gorgeous & exquisite Tapestry in Orange, Blue, Green, deep Pink and Brown has intricate & heavy "Banjara" hand embroidery embellished with tons of glittering huge antique mirrors. So extensive & intricate is the work that the package weight of this tapestry is 5.0 lbs! This spectacular piece of workmanship & skill is an amazing collage of hundreds of intricate antique mirrors, intricate thread work, beads & what not.The sparkling embellishments will lend a spectacularly ethnic look and add style to your room. Transform your wall with the royal grandeur of Indian culture. This unique elegance will add character and transform your table too if you choose to use this as a runner / table cover. Go for a dramatic makeover of your couch and this throw in your living room would become a conversational piece of art. You'll have to just stare at this dramatic piece for hours to believe the unbelievable! A must have in any season for all ethnic savvy ones.

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Body Wrap Tribal Embroidered Wool Shawls 80 x 40 inches (ktds524)

2011-03-20T15:59:00.000-07:00

Embroidered Scarf Shawl Wraps in coarse wool fabric with vibrant embroidery work. It is wonderfully rustic and primevally appealing. They make perfect evening shawls. Does not have the kind of comfort that you would experience in pashmina or silk, but it is warm. And above all embroidery is unique and that makes these Indian shawls rare, exotic and provocative.

Kutch has managed admirably to preserve the culture of both its court and nomadic peoples. The special Woolen shawls of this region with embroidery are very famous because of their bright look that complements a winter day. The embroidery is never very dense but the colors are combined in such a manner that the brightness of body colors of the wool shawls is always enhanced. With addition of a little mirror work, the wool shawls look even prettier. The Rabari tribe of Kutch is an expert in such embroidery. The patterns of any embroidery are first sketched in mud with needles and then a final sketching is done in double running stitch.

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Bohemian Embroidered Ethnic Kutch Sling Messenger Bag

2011-03-20T11:27:00.000-07:00

Stunning, Picturesque 100% Handmade Authentic Banjara Patchwork Shoulder Bag with Mirrors, Metal beads, Cowrie Shells, beaded hangings and Hand Embroidery, From India.

NH10066

For those who wish to make a fashion statement! Authentic Banjara shoulder Bag with large mirror work, metal beads, metal coins, cowrie shells, hand embroidery and beaded hangings - a majestic kaleidoscope of bonanza of colors that is mesmerizing. If you want to be unique, different and trendy, this is definitely for you. Spruce up your wardrobe with this spectacular masterpiece of work. You can realize the painstaking & laborious work involved, not to mention days that one piece takes. Never ever seen in any major Departmental store in the U.S, this ethnic bag is as durable as is stunning.

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COTTON KNITTED TAPESTRY HOME DECOR WALL HANGING THROW Free Shipping Worldwide

2011-03-20T08:26:00.000-07:00

This is a beautiful gujrati style multicolor thread hand knittied embroidered tapestry/wall hanging/wall decor with decorativ birds & flower design embroidery from the tribal areas of kutch & rajasthan.you can use them to decorate your walls, floor or tables.It represents a true colors of indian cultural diversity in the context of its craftmenship and tradition.Indian handicrafts are always rich in variety owing to great diversity in the cultural set-up of Indian society. The handicraft produced in far flung regions of India are unique and possess great historical traditions and artistry.

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Embroidery Toran Handmade Window Treatment Door Valance

2011-03-20T03:53:00.000-07:00

Antique Vintage Exquisite Banjara 100% hand Embroidered with mirror work Sari Indian Toran / Valance / Window or Door Topper / Wall Hanging Tapestry from the Kutch region of Gujarat in Western India, Size Large: 49" x 28" with seven pods

SKU# NH7836

You are looking at a very vibrant & stunning work of folk craftsmanship, one of the most Ethnic pieces you've probably ever seen. The "Banjara" style is one of the most prized styles of hand embroidery, never seen in any departmental store in the U.S and limited to collector's sites. What distinguishes this memorable style of embroidery is the fact that it covers every inch of fabric with exuberant colors of rural western India. This lovely picturesque hand crafted & 100% hand embroidered Toran / Valence is a visual delight. A 0.25" Red trim lends character to this magnificent Toran / Wall Hanging. The extensive mirror work adds to the sparkle and lends a spectacularly ethnic look and add style to your room. Transform your window / door / wall with the royal grandeur of Indian culture. This hand embroidered Toran is guaranteed to bring you lots of compliments and is truly a bohemian crazy, conversational piece of accessory that everyone's room needs.

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India: The Kutch Peoples

2011-03-20T00:17:00.000-07:00

SKU# NH7836

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Kutch La Lune Hand Bag

2011-03-19T20:42:00.000-07:00

Kutch, situated in the border region of Gujarat state is a drought-prone area which is famous across the world for the embroidery done by the native women. Exclusive embroideries are done during marriages as part of the dowry for the bride. This bag is an assortment of antique embroidery samplers created by these women for their 'Hope Chest'. All Aavni items are handmade and not produced in a factory. Imperfections in the weaving, embroidery and making of these masterpieces are part of the charm of this non-commercialized trade. NO TWO PRODUCTS ARE THE SAME! Check out more of our products at Aavni.com

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Antique Kutch Embroidered Window Door Valance Topper

2011-03-19T16:32:00.000-07:00

Antique Authentic Vintage (35-40 years old), Rare Exquisite Banjara hand Embroidery with mirror work Sari Indian Toran / Valence / Window or Door Topper / Wall Hanging Tapestry from the Kutch region of Gujarat in Western India, Size Huge: W40" x L22" with seven pod.

NH9604

A memorable work of outstanding art !You are looking at a very vibrant & stunning work of folk craftsmanship, one of the most Ethnic pieces you've probably ever seen. The "Banjara" style is one of the most prized styles of hand embroidery, never seen in any departmental store in the U.S and limited to collector's sites. What distinguishes this memorable style of embroidery is the fact that it covers every inch of fabric with exuberant colors of rural western India.This lovely picturesque hand crafted & hand embroidered Toran / Valence is a visual delight. A 0.25" Purple trim lends character to this magnificent Toran / Wall Hanging.The extensive mirror work adds to the sparkle and lends a spectacularly ethnic look and add style to your room. Transform your window / door / wall with the royal grandeur of Indian culture. This 100% hand embroidered vintage rare Toran is guaranteed to bring you lots of compliments and is truly a bohemian crazy, conversational piece of accessory that everyone's room needs.Hardly ever seen in any departmental store, this is a fabulous & unique gift for your loved ones!Don't miss this fabulous offer!

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Vintage Handmade India Kutch Textile Ethnic Fabric 10x6

2011-03-19T12:28:00.000-07:00

Rare Tribal Authentic Banjara Vintage 100% hand-embroidered Textile Patch (also called "Galla") Mirror work and Cowrie Shell work, from the nomadic group known as Banjaras from India. Size = 10" x 6.5"

NH8278

A wonderful work of nomadic art. Rare, authentic vintage hand-embroidered textile patch with exquisite mirror work and Cowrie shell work from India.The textile patch is in good condition. Patch may have minor rips or stains. The mirrors are all kind of blurry and aged-looking. Rows and bunches of cowrie shells runs along the edges.

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Welcome To My Kutchi Culture

2011-03-19T05:56:00.001-07:00

Welcome To My Kutchi Culture
Please Comment

Good infomation about Kutch And Gujarat

2011-01-23T20:24:00.000-08:00

Kachchh (also spelled as Kutch) is a district of Gujarat state in western India. Covering an area of 45,612 km², it is the largest district in the state of Gujarat and the second largest district of India after Leh.

Kachchh literally means something which intermittently becomes wet and dry; large part of this district known as Rann of Kachchh is shallow wet-land which submerges in water during the rainy season and becomes dry during other seasons. The same word is also used in the languages of Sanskrit origin for a tortoise and garments to be worn while having a bath. It is interesting to note that when its map viewed upside down, it resembles a tortoise.

Kachchh District is surrounded by the Gulf of Kachchh and the Arabian Sea in south and west, while northern and eastern parts are surrounded by the Great and Small Rann (seasonal wetlands) of Kachchh. When there were not many dams built on its rivers, the Rann of Kachchh remained wetlands for a large part of the year. Even today, the region remains wet for a significant part of year.

The district had a population of 1,583,225 of which 30% were urban as of 2001.

History

Remote and sparsely populated while the district of Kutch may be, it has had an interesting history. The Indus valley civilization, known to be one of the first ever civilised societies consisted of the ancestors of Kutchis as well as others. However now most of the river lies in Pakistan after India was split up.

Economy and Industries

Kutch is a growing economic and industrial hub in one of India's fastest growing states - Gujarat. Its location on the far western edge of India has resulted in the commisssioning of two major ports Kandla and Mundra. These ports are near most to the Gulf and Europe by the sea route. The hinterland of north-western India hosts more than 50% of India's population.

And Very well connected By Road, Rail and Air. Road qualities are one of the best in India. Kutch have very large number of small truck fleet owners and Village Ratnal have largest number of truck ownership in Asia. People have natural Entrepreneurial skills and large number of people of Kutch have are NRI and Businessman, Industrialist all owner India and support a lot to local economy by Investment and remittance. The Village of Baladia is considered Richest village in Asia with more than Rs. 2 bn bank deposits and all 100% villagers are creditors and no debtors and separate article was published for Baldia and Ratnal in Time Magazine.

Kutch is Mineral rich region with very large reserve of Lignite, Gypsum and lot of other mineral. Kachchh got tax break for Industries for 15 years after the major earthquake in January 26, 2001. And now houses Asia's largest Cement Plan, Sanghi Cement . Kandla - India's largest port by cargo handling. Mundra - One of the most sophisticated high-tech ultra modern port. Other major Industries are Welspun, Ajanta Clocks, One of the largest windmill farms concentration, Kutch region produces 70% salt of India. Kutch is world famous for Handicraft and Embroidery. Bunni - Embroidery and Bhujodi Village is famous for hadicraft and shawls. The Belts From Towns 1) Shamkhiyali - Bhachau -Gandhigham -Kandla, 2 ) Gandhidham - mundra, 3) Gandhidham - Adipur -Anjar - Bhuj, 4) Bhachau - Bhuj houses hundreds of Industries. And It is part of Silver corridor of India. The Major Industries in Kutch are Import-Export, Transportation and Cargo Handling, Cement, Mining, Ports, Salt, Tourism, Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Timber, Real Estate, Retail and lot more. The local environment, people and government is very business friendly and pro-industry. The towns of Gandhidham and Bhuj are very livable, peaceful and environment is very conductive for any business. If you are thinking to Invest in India, don’t miss to evaluate this region.

textiles from the 'kutch' region (india)

2011-01-16T00:03:00.000-08:00

a peek at tribal textiles from 'kutch'

this area in gujarat, a state in western india borders pakistan and is home to over a dozen different gypsy/nomad tribes of varying origins (including one that has migrated from baluchistan)

and they all produce beautiful textile work, as i have recently discovered. although in the beginning the work looks similar, a closer look reveals the distinctive signature of each tribe.

they weave, tie&dye and embroider to create their art.

i've had some pieces for awhile, but a recent event, made me go a bit crazy and now there are many more in my cupboard that i am trying to understand. and i have gone nuts enuff to book a trip to the region next week. am planning to live with the rabari gypsies and am hoping ambitiously, to come back with a complete understanding about the region's textile art, its history and its people !

a "starter pack" of pictures of some of the pieces :

several tribes use mirrors - and sometimes large mirrors set in metal. the embroidery used here is a good neat example of the work of this type. the hanging triangles are made of 'mashru' material which is unique to this region.

this is probably a head gear that helps support the earthen or metal pot on the head. the tail piece seems to have some purpose i hope to discover soon. the camel wool tassels have natural dyes.

this is a head scarf - with embroidery on a square piece that has been tied and dyed first. each corner has a different design, and small cowries are real.

this blanket uses undyed sheep wool. created in two longitudinal parts and then stitched together. the weaver explained that this is because their looms are small (? - will find out why). this is the only piece of the set that i have posted, which is new.

this is a bridal veil for one of the tribes. also made in two longitudinal parts. first tie-dyed separately - then stitched together and then embroidered. the mismatch between the tie-dyed parts is visible.sometimes there also is a deliberate attempt to sabotage perfection in the embroidery - to 'avert the evil eye' called the 'nazarbattu' seen in pic1 on the left bottom. a third dimension is seen in this ludi - with a stuffed square pyramid on each flower (pic 3 which is not of the same ludi as in pic 1 and 2).

there's lots more .... but am not sure if there is interest enuff on this forum- so i shall rest for now !

jaina mishra
mumbai, india

Food Of Gujarat

2011-01-15T11:23:00.000-08:00

The food served in the South of Gujarat is influenced by the cuisine of Maharashtra. In South Gujarat, people usually consume Jowar, whereas in Saurashtra and North Gujarat, the diet consists mainly of Bajra and Maize. In Baroda, you will find a blend of all tastes due to its location. In earlier times, wheat was consumed only by the elite and by the middle class during the festive season. With changing time, things have changed. Today, wheat forms an integral part of the Gujarati platter and is used in a number of ways.

Gulab Jamun

Jalebi

Kachori

Pav Bhaji

Bhajias (Pakoras)

Sweets

Basundi
Doodh Pak
Gajar Halwa
Gulab Jambu
Jalebi
Ladoo
Puran Puri
Shrikhand
Mohan Thal
Magas
Barfi
Gari
Sutarfeni
Kaju Katri

Snacks

Bhajias/Pakoras
Pav Bhaji Recipe here: http://mitholimdo.wordpress.com/category/recipe-by-name/pav-bhaji/
Chana Dal Wada
Kutchi Dabeli
Dal Wada
Dhokla
Farsi Puri
Ganthias
Handvo Recipe here: http://mitholimdo.wordpress.com/category/recipe-by-name/handvo/
Kachori
Khandvi Recipe here: http://mitholimdo.wordpress.com/category/recipe-by-name/khandvi/
Muthias
Sev-Usual
Bhel
Pani Puri
Fafda
Chevdo
Bhakharvadi
Chavanu
Jain Chevdo
Patra
Gatha

Pulses (Dals)Kadhi

Mixed Dal
Moong Dal
Plain Dal
Tuver Dal
Udad Dal
Kadhi
Dhal Dhokli

Vegetables

Batata Suki Bhaji
Cabbage Peas
Cauliflower-Green Peas
Methi Mutter
Okra
Sev-Tomatoes
Undhiyu

Gujarati Wedding Ceremony

2011-01-15T11:17:00.001-08:00

HINDU WEDDING
Marriage is a highly auspicious occasion in the Indian culture. According to the Vedas, the Hindu scriptures, marriage is a sacred life long commitment between a man and a woman. It is considered to be the strongest of all social bonds and is the initiation into a lifetime of togetherness. The Vedic wedding ceremony consists of prayers, invocations, and vows recited in Sanskrit, the most ancient surviving language. The Vedic wedding ceremony dates back to over five thousand years. The ceremony is performed under a decorated canopy, the Mandap. The four pillars that surround the madap represent the four parents. This signifies the important part they have played in raising their children to become the responsible adults they are today. The ceremony is performed before a sacred fire, or Agni, which is the eternal witness of the marriage and all vows taken.
HINDU WEDDING CEREMONY
Baraat (Wedding Procession) The original form of a baraat is a procession from the groom's house to the bride's house for the wedding ceremony. The joyous wedding day begins with the Mangal Vadya, the playing of Shehnai (a traditional wind instrument) and Dhol (Indian drum). Swagatam (Welcoming of the Groom and his Family) The groom and his family are greeted at the doors of the Mandir (Temple) by the bride's parents and family. The mother of the bride then greets and welcomes the groom and his family into her own family. She blesses the groom by placing a tilak (red dot) on his forehead. The groom is then led to the mandap where the wedding ceremony will take place.
Ganesh Puja (The worship of Lord Ganesh) Every Hindu ceremony begins with the worship of Lord Ganesh, deity of peace and wisdom. This is done so people can find strength within themselves to remove any obstacles that may arise. Madhuparka (Welcoming the Groom) While the groom is sitting under the mandap the Madhuparka is performed where his feet are washed by the bride's parents. He is then offered Panchamrut, a liquid composed of milk, yogurt, ghee, honey, and sugar.
Kanya Daan (Giving away of the daughter) The bride accepts her change of status from an unmarried woman to a wife by spreading turmeric powder on her hands. Kanya Daan is performed by the father (or uncle of guardian) of the bride in presence of a large gathering that is invited to witness the wedding.
Vivaaha (Wedding) The bride and the groom face each other, and the priest ties their garments (the bride's saree to the groom's shirt) in a knot, symbolizing the sacred union. The bride and the groom garland each other and exchange the rings. Next the nuptial fire, symbolizing the divine witness, and the sanctifier of the sacrament, is installed and worshipped.
Both the bride and the groom grasp their hands together and pray to God for His blessings. Samagree, consisting of crushed sandalwood, herbs, sugar, rice, ghee (clarified butter), and twigs is offered into the sacred fire to seek God's blessings for the couple.
Mangal Phera (The Circumambulation of the Sacred Fire) The groom holds the bride by the hand and both walk three times around the sacred fire. Both offer oblations and recite appropriate Vedic hymns to Gods for prosperity, good fortune, and conjugal fidelity. They touch each others heart and pray for union of their hearts and minds.
Saptapadi (Seven Sacred Steps - Oaths) This is the most important rite of the entire ceremony. Here the bride and the groom take seven steps together around the sacred fire (Agni) and make the following seven promises to each other: As per the Vedic rituals, the groom sings "With God as our guide, let us take":
1. The first step to nourish each other
2. The second step to grow together in strength
3. The third step to preserve our wealth
4. The fourth step to share our joys and sorrows
5. The fifth step to care for our children
6. The sixth step to be together forever
7. The seventh step to remain lifelong friends
8. The perfect halves to make a perfect whole!
The Satapadi ceremony concludes with a prayer that the union is indissoluble. At the end of this ceremony, the groom and the bride become husband and wife.
Mangal Sutra The Mangal Sutra Dharana is the tying of the thread containing the marks of the Vishnu or Shiva on the neck of the bride by the groom.
Suhaag or Sindhoordana The groom places sindoor (red powder) on the bride's hair symbolizing her as a married woman.
Aashirvaad (Blessing) The groom's parents bless the couple and offer clothes or flower to the bride, symbolizing her joining the groom's family. All those assembled at the ceremony shower flowers on the couple and bless them completing the marriage.

The Kutch Museum

2011-01-15T06:39:00.001-08:00

If you are touring the Kutch region of Gujarat (India), then the Kutch Museum at Bhuj town is a must-see spot for you. In addition to being the oldest museum of Gujarat and one of the oldest in India, this museum is a repository of Indian and Kutchi arts, crafts, culture and history of this region.
Silver and Gold Work:
Goldsmiths of Kutch were renowned for their enamel and filigree work on silver and gold ornaments and articles. Exquisite pieces of this workmanship include brooches, necklaces, rings, trays, silver fans, biscuit boxes and other table items. Another speciality of this region is penknife and lock industry. Innovative pieces of this craft are also on display in the museum.
Arts and Crafts:
Tie-and-dye (Bandhani) work is one of the main attractions for tourists to this region. Going back to hundreds of years, this craft is alive and thriving even today. with a number of award-winning craftsmen engaged in this craftsmanship. The museum has a great number of eye-catching peices depicting this art. Another textile art called "rogan" work where textiles were painted with indelible colored designs is becoming rare now. Once a thriving industry, there is only one craftsman engaged in this work now. However, in this section that you can see a number of samples of this exquisite art.
Weaponry:
In addition to some quaint pieces of weaponry in use in old days, this section has a cannon gifted by Tipu Sultan to Kutch rulers. At first glance, this cannon would seem quite ordinary but the story behind its coming to this region from a far off place would surely interest the history buffs. It is believed that Tipu Sultan of Mysore was looking for allies to fight against the Britishers and had sent this gift to the rulers of this region to rope in their support for his endeavors. It is not known whether anything came off this move from Tipu Sultan but the local rulers did use this cannon in their local wars and skirmishes.
Coins:
Kutch was one of the few princely states in India to have its own coins and you can see most of the silver and gold coins of this region from the time of Mughals down to the British era up to the time when India became independent. One interesting coin in this section is the one with the name of King Edward VIII who abdicated the British throne. Edward's reign was so short that the Britishers did not get around to putting him on their own coins. But the Kutch region did. Naturally this coin has become a rarity for coin-collectors.
These are but a few notable sections of this museum which has many other attractions like paintings and stone inscriptions which are the signposts of this region's cultural and historical heritage. All in all this Museum is a worth a visit if you happen to be in this part of India.