गवरी/Gavari

This video is a presentation on the Gavari dance-drama form of the Mewari Bhil tribe of Rajasthan. The Gavari is a traditional annual dance-drama which lasts for the duration of forty days and is performed during the month of Sawan-Bhadon (July-August). The dance-drama is dedicated to the principal deity of the Bhils, Goddess Gavari. Before the dance drama begins, the Bhil shamans or bhopas petition the Goddess for permission to perform the Gavari and once the permit is obtained she must possess either a troupe member or members before the dance-drama can proceed. During the performance cycle the Gavari troupe travels from village to village providing great entertainment for the rural people. The dance troupe consists of nine functionaries who maintain a very strict ascetic regimen for the duration of the performance. The dance is accompanied by a madal and a thali.