Ghoomar is a traditional folk dance from Haryana and Rajasthan. One is bound to think that the kind of dance form Ghoomar is, it would originate only from Rajasthan. But originally it started from Haryana and was later adopted by Rajasthani community as well.

Ghoomar is a traditional folk dance from Haryana and Rajasthan. One is bound to think that the kind of dance form Ghoomar is, it would originate only from Rajasthan. But originally it started from Haryana and was later adopted by Rajasthani community as well. The Bhil tribe performed Ghoomer to depict the worshipping rituals directed towards Goddess Saraswati. The women have veils around their heads and have covered their face. They also wear a full length skirt called Ghaghra which is highly embellished and decorated piece of fabric.

Ghoomar, according to Wikipedia, ranks fourth in the list of “top 10 local dances around the world” in 2013. This dance form typically involves the dancing women to pirouette in and out of a wide circle. The word “Ghoomar” means twirling in circles in the local language and it has been derived from the word “ghoomna” which means twirling.

As a part of the tradition, the newly married bride performs the “Ghoomar” dance when she is welcomed to her new home, her husband’s home. But these days, women perform on Ghoomar special occasions like weddings, festivals and other religious events.

Key Elements of Ghoomar

1. Origins and History
   • Ghoomar was initially a dance performed by the Bhil tribe to worship Goddess Saraswati, but it gained widespread popularity in Rajasthan’s royal courts, especially among Rajput women.
   • The word “Ghoomar” comes from “ghoomna,” meaning to twirl, which is a defining feature of the dance, as the performers spin in circles, creating an enchanting display of colorful costumes.
   • Ghoomar is deeply associated with Rajasthani pride, valor, and the cultural traditions of the Rajput community.
2. Costumes and Appearance
   • The dancers wear traditional Rajasthani attire, typically a Ghagra (long, flowing skirt), Choli (blouse), and an Odhni (veil). These costumes are usually brightly colored and adorned with intricate embroidery, mirror work, and heavy jewelry.
   • As the dancers spin, the wide, flared skirts create a mesmerizing visual, with the swirling fabric enhancing the dance’s beauty.
   • Jewelry: Traditional jewelry, including heavy necklaces, bangles, anklets, and earrings, is worn, adding to the grandeur of the performance.
3. Dance Movements
   • Ghoomar’s dance movements are simple yet elegant, characterized by graceful twirls and footwork. The dancers move in circles while maintaining coordination with each other.
   • The dance is usually slow at the beginning and gradually picks up pace. The focus is on the synchronized movements and the unity of the group rather than individual performances.
   • The spinning or twirling, which is central to Ghoomar, symbolizes joy, celebration, and grace, and the dancers often perform for hours without losing the rhythm.
4. Music and Singing
   • The music accompanying Ghoomar is typically traditional Rajasthani folk music, with lyrics that celebrate love, valor, nature, and cultural traditions.
   • The songs are sung in Marwari, the local dialect of Rajasthan, and are often accompanied by instruments like the dhol, nagada (drums), and sarangis (string instruments).
   • The lyrics often narrate stories of royal families, deities, or events from everyday life. Popular Ghoomar songs include “Ghoomar Ghoomar,” “Mhari Ghoomar Chhe Nakhrali,” and others.
5. Occasions and Performances
   • Ghoomar is performed during major festivals like Teej, Diwali, and Holi, as well as on weddings and special family occasions.
   • In royal households, Ghoomar was traditionally performed by women to celebrate special events, such as the arrival of a new bride or the birth of a child.
   • It is also performed during Shringar Ras, a theme that celebrates the beauty and adornment of women, and in praise of deities like Goddess Saraswati.
6. Significance in Rajasthani Culture
   • Ghoomar reflects the cultural richness and the communal spirit of Rajasthan. It is considered a dance of pride, joy, and festivity, where women come together to celebrate their traditions and express their unity.
   • The dance is a symbol of feminine grace, showcasing the elegance and beauty of Rajasthani women through its fluid movements and elaborate costumes.
7. Famous Depictions
   • Ghoomar has gained international recognition, especially after being featured in films and cultural festivals. One of the most notable recent depictions of Ghoomar was in the Bollywood film Padmaavat (2018), where Deepika Padukone’s portrayal of Queen Padmavati performing the Ghoomar dance became iconic.
   • Various cultural troupes perform Ghoomar on national and international platforms, bringing the folk tradition to a wider audience.
8. Regional Variations
   • While the traditional Ghoomar is most strongly associated with Rajasthan, there are variations of the dance seen in neighboring states like Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Haryana. Each region adds its own flavor to the dance, whether through costume variations or slight changes in rhythm and movements.

Cultural Relevance Today

In contemporary times, Ghoomar continues to be a vital part of Rajasthani cultural identity. It is performed during public festivals, cultural shows, and even as a welcoming dance for important guests. It has become a representation of Rajasthani hospitality, often performed for tourists who visit Rajasthan to experience its rich heritage.

Conclusion

Ghoomar stands as a beautiful expression of joy, festivity, and cultural pride. Its graceful movements, vibrant costumes, and communal spirit capture the essence of Rajasthan’s tradition. Whether in a royal palace or a village courtyard, Ghoomar continues to celebrate the resilience and unity of Rajasthani women and their deep connection to their heritage.