Art & Culture in Uttarakhand

Uttaranchal is one of the most beautiful and enchanting region located on the northern part of India on the valley of Himalayas. The State, which was curved out of Uttar Pradesh got the statehood in the year 2001. Nature has endowed this land with so much beauty and spiritual bliss that it is also known as Dev Bhoomi the Land of Gods. Ganga, Yamuna and scores of other rivers originate in Uttaranchal. Among them Ganga is the most holy and prominent as she represents the soul of India - her rich culture, history and civilization. In Sanskrit the name 'Himalaya' means Abode of Snow, truly characterizing the vast permanent snow fields above the snow line. In the heart of these majestic mountains lies the state of 'Uttaranchal' with Kumaon region in its east and Garhwal in the west.

ART OF UTTARANCHAL | ART OF UTTARAKHAND

Art and Architecture of Uttaranchal is the first ever comprehensive study on the art and arachitectural legacy of the newly formed hill state of Uttaranchal. This mountainous state can proudly beast of being that part of the subcontinent wherefrom the Indian Civilisation development and proliferated to the pan-Indian demension. In fact, the Kadarkhand, the classical identity of this region, formed an integral part of the Aryavart of the Bharat. Since the first settlement of the Indo-Aryans in the Gangetic Plains, the snow-clad Himalayan ranges of Ka\edarkhand have been the source of perpetual attraction and inspiration to the multitude of humanity the world over. This region has been the grand repository of diverse cultures since the Khaha and Kirati cultures intermingled here ages ago. And, as the wheels of time rolled by innumerable ethno-cultural milieus developed, frlourished and vanished here. The imprpints of all those past identities are still buried under the substratum.

CULTURE OF UTTARANCHAL | CULTURE OF UTTARAKHAND

CULTURE OF UTTARANCHAL Every day at Parmarth Niketan there are numerous yoga and meditation classes. These range from hatha yoga to Yoga Nidra to special meditation classes. Some of the classes are in English, for our frequent Western guests and others are others are in Hindi. Details are given in the schedule of events, Also there are frequent yoga camps and meditation camps, including.

Uttaranchal is one of the most beautiful and enchanting region located on the northern part of India on the valley of Himalayas. The State, which was curved out of Uttar Pradesh got the statehood in the year 2001. Nature has endowed this land with so much beauty and spiritual bliss that it is also known as Dev Bhoomi the Land of Gods. Ganga, Yamuna and scores of other rivers originate in Uttaranchal. Among them Ganga is the most holy and prominent as she represents the soul of India - her rich culture, history and civilization. In Sanskrit the name 'Himalaya' means Abode of Snow, truly characterizing the vast permanent snow fields above the snow line. In the heart of these majestic mountains lies the state of 'Uttaranchal' with Kumaon region in its east and Garhwal in the west. Culture of Uttaranchal The Culture of Uttaranchal has its roots in pre-history and has passed through the millennia, assimilating the influences of the waves upon waves of settlers that have sought sanctuary in the mountains. The essence of the past, however, has remained unchanged, with reverence for Nature and the celebration of life being its fundamental creed. The arts, crafts, dance and music remain centered to this day on the many gods and goddesses, as well as the seasonal cycles. Irrespective of the sect or religion, the entire community participates in the festivals associated with religious or natural events. Of late, other events associated with history, the freedom struggle and national life have also begun to be celebrated. The Culture of Uttaranchal finds manifestation in the lifestyle of its people.

Music and Dance
The Himalayas have inspired generations of singers, dancers, and musicians throughout the ages. The natural beauty of the mountains—which inspires a deep spirituality—and the harshness of life—which darkens the heart with adversity and anguish—have invigorated Uttarakhandi music, heightening its poignancy and enriching its lyrical texture. The Grahwal and Kumaonese are fond of music, folk dance, and songs accompanied by local musical instruments. They go from place to place narrating folklores, dancing and singing the praise of their gods and goddesses. During fairs and festivals and at harvest time, the Kumaonese often dance the Jharva, Chandhur Chhapalior, and many other forms of folk dances. Major dance forms of the Garhwal region are Langvir Nritya, Barada Nati folk dance, Pandava Nritya, Dhurang, Dhuring and Chhura, Chapeli (folk dances).

Chhura
Chhura dance is very popular among the people and is in a way of an old experienced man teaching a young Shepherd the tricks of his trade. Both men and women participate in this dance.

Chapeli
It is a very famous and fast dance of Kumaun. The theme of the dance is love and it is very romantic. Both men and women participate in this dance and the costume is very colourful.

Jhodha
Jhodha dance is the most famous folk dance of Kumaon. People belonging to different caste or creed, perform this dance, irrespective of any discrimination, in almost all festivals.

Chanchi
Chanchi is also one of the famous folk dance of Kumaon. It takes place only in fairs. Mostly this dance is based on religious songs, something related to nature etc.

Cholia
Cholia is one of the famous folk dance of Kumaon which is as old as 1000 years. Swords are being used by dancers in this dance.