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Noted for their colorful dresses, the people of Gujarat – popularly known as ‘Gujaratis’ - exhibit a very warm and friendly nature and the ‘untouched’ simplicity about them constitute an integral part of the beautiful Culture of Gujarat. Gujarat boasts of an extremely rich Art Architecture and Culture, which is reflected in the day-to-day lives of the local populace. The amiable and peace loving Gujaratis are well known for their concern and affection for all life forms.
The diverse ethnic groups constituting the Gujarati population has resulted in the cultural diversity of Gujarat. These ethnic groups can be categorized as Indic (northern-derived) and Dravidian (southern-derived). The Indic group comprises the Nagar Brahman, Bhatia, Bhadela, Rabari, and Mina castes; while the Dravidian origin includes tribes like Bhangi, Koli, Dubla, Naikda, and Macchi-Kharwa. The rest of the populace, including the native Bhil tribe, show mixed characteristics.
The varied culture of Gujarat is amply demonstrated in the various characteristic traits of the people of different parts of the state. For example, the people of Kachha – a low and arid region, are hardy by nature and blessed with a rare spirit of enterprise and acumen for business organization. The people of peninsular Saurashtra on the other hand are artistic; while the people of northern Gujarat are simple, sober and having a more practical outlook. Southern Gujaratis are gentle, pleasure loving and sophisticated by nature.
About one-fifth of Gujarat’s population consists of Scheduled Castes, Ahmedabad having the highest proportion of them. About 70% of the population is Hindus, the rest being Muslims and Jains. Almost one-third of the total population is urbanized.
The folklore and folk arts of Gujarat form a major part of the Culture of Gujarat. Most of the art traditions and cultural heritage of Gujarat can be traced back to the ancient period of Lord Krishna. The Gujaratis exhibit a natural penchant for singing and dancing. They have special songs and dances for every occasion and festival celebrated all round the year. They have, till date, successfully preserved Gujarat’s rich tradition of song, dance and drama.
Most popular among the dance forms in Gujarat are Ras and Garba. Some other popular folk dance forms include Tippani Nritya, Siddi dance, Padhar Nritya, Dangi Nritya and other local tribal dances. Bhavai is the popular folk drama in Gujarat.
Gujarati handicrafts, which are famous worldwide, are also an integral aspect of the culture of Gujarat.
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