Udaipur Tourism Department is making significant efforts to bring Mewar's famous folk dance, "Gavari," to the global stage. They are preparing a proposal to include “Gavari” in UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage under the Performing Arts/Festive Events category.

The Deputy Director of the Tourism Department, Shikha Saxena has written a letter to the District Collector, urging the state government to send the proposal to UNESCO. She highlighted that “Gavari” and its folk devotees is a crucial part of Mewar's cultural heritage. Inclusion in UNESCO would give it global recognition, showcasing the richness of Mewar's tribal tourism to the world.

What is Gavari festival and how it is celebrated?

The Gavari festival is widely celebrated in southern Rajasthan, particularly in the Mewar region. This traditional dance-drama lasts for forty days and takes place during the month of Sawan-Bhadon (July-August). It is dedicated to Goddess Gavari, the principal deity of the Bhils. During this time, people from villages travel to different places, dressed in various costumes, and perform traditional acts. Right now, groups from the tribal community are performing Gavari dance in different parts of the city.

The nature of the Gavari festival fosters strong connections and unity among the scattered rural villages of Mewar, along with their various tribes and religious communities. The festival's rich mythological and historical performances also play a key role in keeping tribal youth connected to their heritage.

The Gavari festival enhances inter-community connections through its travels across villages and fosters a sense of responsibility among the Bhils beyond their immediate surroundings. Although only Bhils perform in the festival, its preparations and performances engage people from all castes, communities, and age groups, thereby reinforcing community ties and spreading joy throughout the event.

UNESCO Team Praised Gavari Folk Dance

In 2022, the Tourism Department organized the "Adi Mahotsav" in Kotda on World Tourism Day. A team from UNESCO attended the event and praised the dances of “Gavari” and the “Sahariya tribe.” The UNESCO team noted that this is authentic tribal culture, still preserved in its purest form.

The Central Ministry of Tourism has also taken steps to promote Gavari on a national level. As part of its festival program, detailed information about “Gavari” has been shared on the ministry's portal. This allows people from different states to learn about Mewar’s heritage from their homes. The ministry regularly updates its platform with information about major festivals across the country.