Introduction and History

Friends, in this section we will try to understand the Rathwa tribe and get an overview of Rathwa Dance. In this we will get an introduction to the religious, cultural significance of this dance and its various styles. Also, we will see the history and origin of this dance in the Rathwa tribe, the cultural context of the tribe, mythological events associated with Rathwa Dance and the deep connection of this dance with nature and agriculture.

Origin and Historical Background of Rathwa Dance

Rathwa Dance is an important folk dance of the Rathwa tribe of Gujarat, which is especially performed on the occasion of Holi. Its origin and historical background are deeply connected with the cultural heritage, religious beliefs and social life of the tribe.

Historical Background
The Rathwa tribe is mainly settled in Chhotaudepur and Panchmahal districts of GujaratThe Rathwa tribe is named after their place of residence "Rath-Vistar" which is located in the hilly areas of south-eastern Gujarat.
Rathwa dance is associated with Indian tribal life, where this dance is not only a means of entertainment but is an integral part of the religious and social life of the community. This dance represents a tradition passed down from generation to generation for centuries, in which the spirit of collectivism and community is dominant. The Rathwa people keep their customs, festivals and religious beliefs alive through their dance.

Origin of Rathwa Dance
The time of origin of Rathwa dance is not known for sure, but it is linked to ancient times. This dance is especially performed during Holi, in which the people of the Rathwa tribe honor their traditions and culture. The celebration of this dance starts on the day of Dhulendi, when people apply colors to each other.
The Rathwa dance also has religious significance. The people of the Rathwa tribe worship their deities, especially Holi Mata. The songs sung during the dance have deep religious sentiments. The purpose of performing this dance is to wish for the prosperity of the family, health and a good harvest in agriculture. This dance is also a spiritual experience for the Rathwa community, which displays their faith and belief.

Information about Rathwa tribe

Rathwa is a sub-caste of Bhil-Bhilala caste located in the state of Gujarat. 

• Classification: The name Rathwa is derived from "Rathbistar", which means inhabitant of forest and hilly areas. Thus, people who are known as residents of Rathbistar are called Rathwas. These people are classified as scheduled tribes and these people are considered to be the original inhabitants (Moolnivasi) of this land. They protect and worship their land, forests.
• History and Origin: The name Rathwa is derived from "Rathbistar", which means inhabitant of forest or hilly area. According to the belief of their community, they came to Gujarat region from Madhya Pradesh in the medieval period. According to the Government of Gujarat, they are currently found in Chhota Udaipur, Jabugam and Naswadi talukas of Vadodara district and Baria, Halol and Kalol talukas of Panchmahal district.
• Dance of Rathwa Tribe: The dance of Rathwa tribe is an important part of the cultural identity of this tribe. This dance is especially held on the occasion of Holi. During this dance, men and women dance together, in which men are called "Gheria" and women are called "Gherani".
• Gotra of RathwaSome of the gotras of Rathwa are: Bamnia, Damaria, Kanasiya, Kohliya, Tadwala etc.

Description of Famous Persons of Rathwa Tribe

Many famous persons have contributed to the history and culture of Rathwa tribe, who have influenced not only their clan but also the entire society. Some of the prominent personalities are mentioned here

• Amarsinh Rathwa (1942-1990): Amarsinh Rathwa was a prominent Indian politician. He won the Lok Sabha election from Chhota Udaipur in Gujarat as a member of the Indian National Congress. His political career brought the voice of the Rathwa tribe to the Parliament. Amarsinh focused on various issues of the society during his time and supported many schemes for the development of the tribal community. His work was particularly important for tribal welfare and social justice. His contributions are remembered even after his demise and his legacy continues to inspire people.
• Naranbhai J. Rathwa (born 1 June 1953): Naranbhai Rathwa is currently a member of Rajya Sabha from Gujarat. He has served as a member of the 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th and 14th Lok Sabha and represented the Chhota Udaipur constituency. He was a member of the Indian National Congress, but on 27 February 2024, he resigned from the Congress to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Naranbhai has also served as Minister of State in the Ministry of Railways, where he contributed significantly to the development and improvement of railways. He lost the Lok Sabha elections to Ramsingh Rathwa in 2009, but his achievements in his political career are significant.

Dance Features
Rathwa dance is the traditional dance of the Rathwa tribe of Gujarat. This dance is mainly performed during festivals like Holi, harvest and special occasions. Rathwa dance focuses on harmony and unity, with men and women wearing colourful traditional costumes.

Key Features:

The Rathwa tribe is mainly settled in Chhotaudepur and Panchmahal districts of Gujarat.This dance is especially performed during the celebration of Holi and through this the Rathwa people express their culture, traditions and religious faith. Some of the main features of Rathwa dance are as follows:

• Colourful Costumes: The male and female dancers in Rathwa dance wear attractive and colourful costumes. The male dancers wear traditional dhoti and kurta, while the females wear ghagra-choli. The costumes of this dance include a variety of adornments, such as earrings, bangles and bindis. This type of costume adds to the vivacity and enthusiasm of the dance.
• Style of Dance: The style of Rathwa dance is lively and dynamic. The dancers dance together in a rhythm, which shows their collectivity and unity. The dancers perform a variety of movements, such as jumping, swinging and spinning in circles. The dance is usually performed to the tune of traditional musical instruments like the mridanga, dholak and flute.

Music and Instruments

The Rathwa dance is brought to life by a variety of traditional instruments. These instruments include the Dholak, Bada Dhol, Harnai/Shehnai, Thaali and Ghungroo. The music is in sync with the steps and movements of the dancer, making the dance even more entertaining. The music includes folk songs and devotional songs, which reflect religious faith and love for nature.

Major Forms and Variations of the Dance

The Rathwa dance, the traditional dance of the Rathwa tribe of Gujarat, is known for its variety and characteristics. This dance is mainly performed on various occasions such as festivals, marriage ceremonies and harvest time. There are many major forms and variations of the Rathwa dance, which reflect the richness and cultural diversity of this dance.

1. Serious Rathwa Dance: In the serious Rathwa dance, the dancers dance in simple and serious postures. This type of dance is usually performed on religious or worship occasions. It uses slow and restrained movements to highlight the devotional feeling. The dancers gather together and dance with traditional musical instruments, set to the rhythm of religious music.
2. Utsav Rathwa Dance: This type of dance is performed especially during festivals. The Utsav Rathwa dance involves fast and energetic movements. The dancers dance wearing traditional costumes and the music also contributes a lot to it. Instruments like dhol, shehnai and harnai set the rhythm and beat of this dance. The Utsav Rathwa dance displays a sense of joy and enthusiasm, and is performed in a group, consisting of both men and women.
3. Kavita Rathwa Dance: The specialty of the Kavita Rathwa dance is that the dancers sing along with the dance. This dance is usually performed at wedding ceremonies or other happy occasions. The dancers sing and dance in their traditional costumes, which adds cultural and emotional depth to this dance. This type of dance reflects the rhythm of the song as well as the body posture of the dancer.

Common Steps and their Description

An integral part of the culture of the Rathwa tribe of Gujarat, Rathwa dance is known for its special steps and postures. This dance is not only a means of entertainment but also a symbol of tribal traditions and social harmony. The various steps involved in this dance and their descriptions reflect the richness and depth of this dance. Let us understand the common steps of Rathwa dance in detail.

1. Preparatory Pose: The Rathwa dance begins with a group posture in which the dancers stand in a circle. This posture not only symbolizes unity but also reflects a sense of collectivity. The dancers join hands with each other, giving a feeling of a deep connection. In this preparatory posture, all the dancers gradually prepare their bodies according to the rhythm and feel the melody of the music. This is a beautiful example of collectivity, which is maintained throughout the dance.
2. Clapping: Next, the dancers clap to increase the rhythm. This step increases the energy of the dance and attracts the audience. This process of clapping is a means for the dancers to maintain a harmonious rhythm. During this, the dancers raise their hands and then bring them down, which maintains the balance of rhythm and speed. Along with clapping, the dancers also express the emotion of the dance through their posture and facial expressions.
3. Change of pace: During the dance, the dancers move collectively from one place to another. This step helps to increase the collective movement, in which the dancers move in one direction and then return. In such a movement, the dancers come close to each other and then separate, which creates a magical effect in the dance. This step not only adds dynamism to the dance, but it also reflects the collective enthusiasm of the community.
4. Footwork: Footwork plays an important role in Rathwa dance. The dancers move their feet at different angles, such as twisting, bending and jumping. This step adds to the speed of the dance as well as its melodiousness. The dancers bring their feet closer to each other, creating a collective melody. In this step, the dancers feel their connection with the ground, which gives them depth to the dance.
5. Hand Gestures:Hand gestures are especially important during the dance. Dancers use a variety of hand gestures, such as raising the hands, lowering them and joining them with each other. This not only gives visuals to the dance, but it is also a medium of cultural expression. Hand gestures often symbolize life, nature and magical elements. Through this, the dancers express their emotions and thoughts, thereby creating a deep connection with the audience.

Rhythm and Beat

The rhythm and beat of Rathwa dance is an integral part of this traditional dance, which adds to its vibrancy and enthusiasm. A variety of rhythmic tunes and beats are used in this dance, which provide direction and energy to the movements of the dancers. Rathwa dance mainly consists of fast and melodious tunes, which are played with dhol,mandal and other traditional instruments.

Understanding the Rhythm and Taal of Dance

Rathwa dance is an important part of Indian tribal culture, especially performed by the Rathwa tribe. The rhythm and taal of this dance is its soul, which guides every movement of the dancers and brings liveliness to the entire performance. The proper combination of rhythm and taal during Rathwa dance not only creates harmony among the dancers but also provides an engaging experience to the audience.

Importance of Taal
Rhythm has special importance in Rathwa dance. Rhythm means speed, which provides direction and unity to the movements of the dancer. This dance has fast and melodious tunes, which are mainly created by traditional musical instruments. Instruments like Dhol, Mandal and Timki set the rhythm of this dance. These instruments not only increase the speed of the dance but also present a unique musical composition in sync with the heartbeat of the dancers. Tal boosts the morale of the dancers and gives them enthusiasm at every step of the dance. When the dancers move with the rhythm, it becomes a collective experience, which mesmerizes the audience. The rhythm of Rathwa dance is sometimes slow and sometimes fast, which keeps changing according to the emotions of the dancers and the environment.

Characteristics of Rhythm
Rhythm is another important element of Rathwa dance. Rhythm means a regular tune or cycle, which provides the basis for the dancers to perform their movements in a certain time frame. There are many forms of rhythm in Rathwa dance, such as fast speed and stability, which add a magical effect to the performance of the dancers. The dancers adjust the movements of their hands and feet with the rhythm, which brings stability and ease in the dance. The correct use of rhythm helps the dancers to maintain their physical balance, making the performance even more attractive. The calculation of rhythm in Rathwa dance is simple, which helps the dancers to work together.

Different types of rhythms and their use

The different types of rhythms and their use in Rathwa dance reflect its cultural depth and richness. Rathwa dance, performed by the Rathwa tribe of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, is especially performed during harvest and festivals. Its rhythms and beats add vibrancy and enthusiasm to the dance performance.

Different types of rhythms:

1. Dhrut taal: This is one of the most common types of rhythm in Rathwa dance. It is used during festivals and special occasions where the dancers move at a fast pace. The effect of this rhythm increases the energy of the dancers and spreads excitement among the audience.
2. Madhyam taal: This rhythm is used in scenes where a story or an emotional message has to be conveyed. Madhyam taal highlights the light and balanced movements of the dancer’s body, bringing an elegance and beauty to the performance.
3. Vilambit taal: This rhythm is used mainly in religious or spiritual contexts. In this rhythm, the dancers move their steps slowly, creating a meditative and mental peace. It immerses the audience in a deep feeling.

Use of Rhythm

Rhythm in Rathwa dance is used not only to determine the pace of the dancers, but it also influences their emotions and expressions. The right use of rhythm enhances the entirety of the dance and makes it a rich experience for the audience.

• Expression of emotions: The dancers express their emotions according to the rhythm. For example, when the rhythm is fast, the dancers express happiness and excitement, while the slow rhythm highlights the depth and seriousness within them.
• Collectiveness: The collective use of rhythm in Rathwa dance brings the dancers together. When all the dancers dance in one rhythm, it creates a wonderful feeling of collectivity.
• Infusion of culture: The rhythm of Rathwa dance is not only a dance skill, but it also reflects the culture and traditions of the Rathwa community. There is a story and an emotion hidden behind every rhythm, which connects the audience to the rich cultural heritage of the Rathwa tribe.

Costumes and Instruments

The traditional costumes in Rathwa dance reflect the tribal cultural heritage. Men of the Rathwa community traditionally wear dhoti and kurta, which are white or light coloured. They have a turban on their head, which symbolizes their tribal pride. Women are draped in colourful saris, mostly red, green and yellow colours are prominent. These saris are draped in a traditional way, and are accompanied by silver jewellery like necklaces, bangles and anklets. Let us first know in detail what is traditional and modern costumes in costumes and instruments.

Traditional and Modern Costumes

Rathwa dance, which is an important part of the cultural identity of the Rathwa tribe, reflects their identity through its traditional and modern costumes. This dance not only displays their social and cultural life but also highlights their craftsmanship and art. The costumes of this dance express the spirit and artistry of the dancers, which is an integral part of their cultural heritage.

Traditional Costumes

Traditional Costumes for Men

• Dhoti and Kurta: Rathwa men usually wear white or light-coloured dhoti. Along with the dhoti, they choose embroidered kurta, which helps them move freely during the dance. Along with the traditional dress, Rathwa men often have colourful chaadar or shawl on their shoulders, which further enhances their cultural identity.
• Jewellery: Rathwa men wear a variety of earrings and rings, which reflect their personal style. These ornaments not only add an element of beauty, but they also represent their cultural heritage.

Traditional Costumes for Women

• Lehenga and Choli: Rathwa women usually choose colourful lehenga and choli. These clothes have embroidery and weaving work, which enhances their beauty while dancing. The length and design of the lehenga usually reflects their tradition, which makes it very attractive during the dance.
• Dupatta: Women wear a beautiful dupatta with their lehenga. This dupatta is in different colors and makes their movements more attractive during the dance.
• Jewellery: Rathwa women wear traditional jewellery like nose rings, earrings and bracelets. These jewellery not only enhance their beauty but also reflect the depth of their culture.

Modern Costumes

Rathwa dance has incorporated modern clothing along with traditional costumes. This change not only gives a new look to the dance but also attracts the younger generation.

1. Comfortable clothes: Nowadays, some Rathwa dancers wear comfortable clothes like jeans and T-shirts, which makes their movements easier during the dance. This change adds novelty to the dance while maintaining its traditionality.
2. Fashion elements: Young Rathwa dancers are now trying to add modern fashion elements to their traditional costumes. This keeps the dance culture fresh and innovative. Under this, they are using different colors and designs.
3. Mix of traditional and modern: Many people are mixing traditional and modern clothing. For example, using modern shoes or accessories with traditional lehenga, which further enriches the culture of the dance.

Characteristics of Costumes and Their Cultural Significance

Rathwa dance is an important part of Indian tribal culture, especially performed by the Rathwa tribe of Gujarat. This dance is not only a form of art but also a symbol of the cultural identity and traditions of the Rathwa community. The dance costumes express the social and cultural heritage of this community. Let us discuss the characteristics of Rathwa dance costumes and their cultural significance in detail.

Traditional Rathwa Dance Costumes

Traditional Costumes of Men
 Dhoti and Kurta: Rathwa men usually wear white or light coloured dhoti, which they wear with a kurta. The kurta is often embroidered and embroidered, which facilitates their movement during the dance. The dhoti and kurta are not only comfortable, but they also reflect the traditionalism of the men.

Traditional Costumes of Women

• Lehenga and Choli: Rathwa women usually wear colourful lehengas and cholis. The lehenga is adorned with embroidery and weaving work, which enhances their beauty while dancing. The length and colour of the women's lehenga reflects their cultural identity.
• Dupatta: Women wear a beautiful dupatta with their lehenga, which comes in various colours and designs. This dupatta not only adorns their outfit but also enhances their movements during their dance.
• Jewellery: Rathwa women wear traditional jewellery such as nose rings, earrings and bracelets. These jewellery not only enhance their beauty but also reflect the depth of their culture. The jewellery is often made by local artisans and has intricate designs, which are part of their cultural heritage.

Features of Rathwa Dance Costumes

1. Colourfulness: Rathwa dance costumes are highly colourful, reflecting the vibrancy and enthusiasm of this community. The bright colours create a special effect during the dance, attracting the audience.
2. Local Materials: The costumes are often made by local weavers and artisans, showcasing their traditional techniques and craftsmanship. This use of local materials helps preserve their cultural heritage.
3. Medium of Expression: Rathwa dance costumes are not only a part of the costumes but also express the emotions and expressions of the dancers. The dancers present their culture, tradition and identity through their costumes.
4. Cultural Identity: Rathwa dance costumes are an important part of the cultural identity of this tribe. These costumes not only reflect their geographical location but also highlight their historical and social context.

Cultural Significance

• Social Unity: Rathwa dance costumes promote unity and collectivism within the community. When all the dancers wear the same costume, it strengthens the collective identity.
• Economic development: Rathwa dance costumes become a source of employment for local artisans and weavers. This not only boosts the local economy but also keeps the cultural heritage alive.
• Preservation of culture: Rathwa dance costumes play an important role in preserving the traditions and cultural heritage of this community. When the younger generation wears traditional costumes, it promotes respect and awareness towards their culture.
• Spiritual significance: Rathwa dance costumes do not only symbolize external beauty but also have spiritual elements. These costumes reflect their faith and belief.

Thus, Rathwa dance costumes are not only a part of the dance but also reflect the culture, history and social fabric of the Rathwa tribe.

Main musical instruments and their identification

Performed mainly by the Rathwa tribe of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, Rathwa dance is known for its lively performances and cultural richness. An integral part of the music of this dance is its musical instruments, which make the dance special. In this article, we will discuss in detail about the main instruments of Rathwa dance and their identification.

1. Dhol

Dhol is a major musical instrument of Rathwa dance. It is a large-sized drum, which is played mainly with hands. The resonating sound of the dhol sets the rhythm and beat of the dance, adding energy and enthusiasm to the steps of the dancers.

• Identification: The dhol is circular, with leather coating on both sides. Special techniques are used to play it on the instrument.
• Cultural significance: The dhol is not only the source of music but it is also an integral part of the celebrations and festivals of the Rathwa tribe, reflecting the cultural identity of the community.

2. Timki

The Timki is a small instrument that provides rhythm to the Rathwa dance. It is played with the hands and its loud sound adds a magical effect to the dancer's performance.

• Identity: The Timki is a circular instrument made of wood or bamboo. Its sound is loud and clear.
• Cultural significance: The Timki enhances the pace of the dance and is an important part of the Rathwa culture.

3. Flute

The flute is an important musical instrument that adds melodious melody to the dance. It is made of wood and its melodious sound enriches the dancer's performance.

• Identity: The flute is a long, round instrument with holes in it. Playing it produces a melodious sound.
• Cultural significance: The flute is a symbol of love, peace and beauty in Rathwa culture. Its sound makes the dance joyful and enchanting.

Conservation, Modern Influences and Conclusion

An important part of Indian tribal culture, Rathwa dance is known for its uniqueness and cultural heritage. This dance is not only an art form but it is a reflection of the traditions, beliefs and lifestyle of the Rathwa tribe. However, over time, this dance has faced various modern influences, challenging its preservation and identity. In this context, we will discuss the preservation, modern influences and conclusion of Rathwa dance, so that its cultural heritage can be understood and carried forward.

Conservation of Traditional Styles and Methods

An integral part of the cultural heritage of the tribal Rathwa community of Gujarat, Rathwa dance has undergone preservation and modern influences over time. The importance of this dance lies not only in entertainment but also in depicting the traditional story and identity of the community. Rathwa dance is not only performed on festivals and special occasions but it is also a means of strengthening community unity and cultural identity.
The preservation of Rathwa dance depends on several factors. Firstly, one of the main purposes of this dance is to keep its traditional stories and cultural beliefs alive. Through dance, the Rathwa people pass on their traditions to future generations, thereby preserving their cultural identity. In addition, the practice of Rathwa dance is given prominence in local festivals and celebrations, making it a part of ritual activities.

Role in Education and Influence of Media:

Rathwa dance is not only a cultural expression but is also being widely propagated through education and media. This dance is a symbol of the traditions, beliefs and social life of the Rathwa community. Today many new dimensions have been added to its education and propagation, which play an important role in the preservation and development of the dance. This form of dance not only preserves cultural heritage but it also symbolizes social unity, identity and tribal pride.

Role in Education

The education of Rathwa dance is gaining importance especially in schools and colleges. The younger generation is being introduced to the techniques and features of this dance through various cultural programmes and events. This not only gives students an opportunity to connect with their cultural roots, but it also teaches them discipline, teamwork and social skills.

1. Inclusion in curriculum: Many educational institutions are including Rathwa dance in their curriculum. This ensures that the coming generation understands the value and tradition of this art. For this, the contribution of dance instructors is important, who are experts in teaching this art. Such initiatives increase cultural awareness and a sense of preservation among students.
2. Workshops and training programmes: Special workshops and training programmes are being organised, in which the basic elements and techniques of dance are taught to the young artists. This helps them connect with their cultural heritage. Such events involve experienced dancers and experts who share their art and inspire the participants.
3. Cultural festivals: Rathwa dance gets an opportunity to be performed in cultural festivals. Rathwa dance is performed during various festivals like Teej, Holi and local fairs. These occasions not only give the dancer a chance to showcase his talent but also instill cultural pride in the audience. People come together during the dance, thereby celebrating the unity of the community and cultural heritage.

Influence of media

The role of media has become extremely important in today's digital age. Rathwa dance is being shown on various mediums like TV, radio and social media. Thus, the media has not only popularised the dance but also provided it with a global platform.

1. Social Media: Videos of Rathwa dance are being shared on platforms like Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. These videos not only showcase the dance but also make the audience aware of the culture, traditions and lifestyle of the Rathwa community. Young artists are reaching out to a global audience by sharing their performances online, giving the dance a new identity.
2. TV Programmes: Rathwa dance is being given a platform in various cultural programmes and reality shows. These programmes not only showcase the dance but also highlight its importance in society. Performing Rathwa dance in such shows allows the audience to experience the rich culture and heritage of this dance.
3. Documentaries and Films: Documentaries and films on Rathwa dance have highlighted the depth and significance of this dance. These films not only present the art of dance but also reflect the culture and history of the Rathwa community. Such filming gives recognition to the dance as a cultural heritage and allows the audience to experience the diversity and richness of the dance.

Conclusion

Rathwa dance, an important part of the cultural heritage of the Rathwa tribe of Gujarat, is a rich and varied dance form renowned for its historical background and cultural significance. This dance reflects the lifestyle of the tribal people, their beliefs and their traditions. The origin of Rathwa dance is linked to tribal customs and their religious rituals, which have been passed down from generation to generation for centuries. This dance is not only a part of religious festivals but also a symbol of community unity and cooperation. The identity of the Rathwa tribe lies in their traditional lifestyle, agriculture-based economy and unique cultural practices. The people of the Rathwa tribe take pride in preserving their traditions and are active in carrying forward their history. Some of the famous personalities of this tribe include those who have made significant contributions in their field and whose works have played a vital role in the development of the tribal community.
The characteristics of the dance include its diversity and dynamism. The major forms and variations of the Rathwa dance differ not only depending on the geographical region but also according to the community rituals. The general steps of the dance are simple yet impressive, presenting a harmonious spectacle to the audience. The rhythm and beats of the dance not only drive the movements of the dancers but also touch the hearts of the audience. The costumes of the Rathwa dance further add to its cultural significance. The traditional and modern costumes include colourful clothes and decorations, which reflect the vibrancy of the dance.