Chinese Dance is classified into two parts-
Traditional Dance
The art of Chinese dance marks its origins around the 4th millennium BC. A study of ceramic artifacts with dramatized dancing figures foretells that people of the Neolithic Yangshao culture had choreographed group dances.
After the establishment of the Music Bureau during the Han Dynasty in the year 206 BC, continues efforts were made to develop the folk songs and dances in the country. During those days each regional group of China has its own folk dance forms. The Miao also known as Hmong people of southwestern China developed a lively form of submissive, singing and rival dances.
The inhabitant of Taiwan created hand holding line dances as part of a harvest ritual. Folk dances showcase the lifestyles and customs of a people, though there are numerous folk dances, every dance is a precious and an ingenious part of China's rich cultural heritage.
Traditional Chinese Dance includes the stalwart Lion Dance with drum music, the spirited Ribbon Dance with long Silk Ribbons fabricating calligraphic designs in the air; as well as the exquisite Fan Dance mesmerized by spectators all over the world. The Art of Chinese Dance convoy the hue, extravagance and splendor of the Chinese culture all over the world.
Red Fan Dance in China The Prevalent Dances
The evolution of modern Chinese dance has taken up by zealous talents. Normally, young people undertake study ballet dance and modern dance initially, later on they study the procedure and linguistic rules of traditional Chinese dance.
Slowly the learners take over to the new Chinese style body expressions and movements with a challenging mind for experimentation. Since about 1970, the original and unique synthesis of young dancers has brought a reawakening in Chinese Dance and Drama.
Diversified Chinese Dances
Chinese Folk Dance
XingJiang Drum Dance, Taiwanese Folk Dance, Taiwan Aborginal Dance, Kung-Fu Fan Dance, Yunan Dai folk dance, Dunhuang Aesthetic Dance.
Traditional Chinese Dance
Dragon Dance, Feather Fan Dance, Traditional Chinese Ribbon Dance, Ribbon Dance, Silk Fan Dance, Sword Dance.
Chinese Modern Dance
Chinese modern dance is a unification of Live Music and Dance- The group of small children performs dance of “Nurture” in the age of 8 to 12 years. Dance of "Mother and Daughter" performed with live music.
Calligraphy Dance combined the art of dance and Chinese calligraphy presentation.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Friday, July 16, 2010
Ancient Egypt dance
Ancient Egyptian Dance
Ancient Egypt dance
From paintings and etchings on the walls of tombs to clay figures with their hands held above their heads, it is clear to historians and Egyptologists that dancing was a common part of life in ancient Egypt . There are scenes found in tombs dating as far back as the New Kingdom involving dancers at ceremonies, rituals, and celebrations.
Ancient Egypt Online Navigation
Ancient Egyptian dance varied from each instance to the next, with different movements and steps depending on the kind of engagement the dancers were performing at. For instance, a military meeting would be different from a more ritualistic time.
The dancers themselves were often groups, but only of one gender at a time, with little to no evidence of males and females dancing together. Often the steps were choreographed to not echo one and another, but often, as in more recent dance movements, each person has their own gestures and positions to make on their own, but each is working together in very specifically organized ways.
The downside is, as much of what we understand of ancient Egyptian dance comes from murals found on the walls of tombs and temples, there is only so much information that can be taken from a simple snapshot. With a culture so rich and heavily involved in religion, it is easy to say that the point of the dances were often probably meant to honor the gods, or were designed with a certain purpose; but with the little that we know past the pictures, it is hard to figure out what the movements were, not to mention what the movements meant.
While many cultures have very specific and often elaborate dancing costumes, the clothes worn by Egyptian dancers were hardly elaborate or involved enough to even call them an actual costume: in many scenes that have survived the ages, dancers (females, specifically) are found moving their arms and legs without being trapped by cloth of any sort, except for the occasional small fringed skirt or tunic, not always worn simultaneously. There were other times when dancing took place in the nude, with nothing but a single ribbon tied loosely about the waist.
It is believed that the dances originally started as a way of both mourning the dead and appeasing the goddess Sekhmet, who, as the myth goes, once nearly destroyed all of mankind when asked by the sun god Ra to punish those who had forgotten him.
Other tomb depictions show dancers following funeral processions, and in some cases, performing moves more closely associated with acrobatics and gymnastics than strictly dancing. During these processions, it was common for dancers to skip or leap into the air, which was a way of honoring and welcoming the goddess Hathor, who was believed to meet the dead at the entrance to the underworld. By properly honoring Hathor, it assured them that the newly deceased would reach his or her destination well at the hands of the goddess.
While we may not know the particular meaning of every step or movement made by a dancer during any given dance they performed, we understand that they were almost entirely religious in nature, and meant to honor, celebrate, mourn, or pacify. And in a culture so profoundly entwined in religion, most of the honoring and pacifying was in the name of one or many of their gods, who they believed helped them frequently during the passage of a day, not to mention the passage of time.
Ancient Egypt dance
From paintings and etchings on the walls of tombs to clay figures with their hands held above their heads, it is clear to historians and Egyptologists that dancing was a common part of life in ancient Egypt . There are scenes found in tombs dating as far back as the New Kingdom involving dancers at ceremonies, rituals, and celebrations.
Ancient Egypt Online Navigation
Ancient Egyptian dance varied from each instance to the next, with different movements and steps depending on the kind of engagement the dancers were performing at. For instance, a military meeting would be different from a more ritualistic time.
The dancers themselves were often groups, but only of one gender at a time, with little to no evidence of males and females dancing together. Often the steps were choreographed to not echo one and another, but often, as in more recent dance movements, each person has their own gestures and positions to make on their own, but each is working together in very specifically organized ways.
The downside is, as much of what we understand of ancient Egyptian dance comes from murals found on the walls of tombs and temples, there is only so much information that can be taken from a simple snapshot. With a culture so rich and heavily involved in religion, it is easy to say that the point of the dances were often probably meant to honor the gods, or were designed with a certain purpose; but with the little that we know past the pictures, it is hard to figure out what the movements were, not to mention what the movements meant.
While many cultures have very specific and often elaborate dancing costumes, the clothes worn by Egyptian dancers were hardly elaborate or involved enough to even call them an actual costume: in many scenes that have survived the ages, dancers (females, specifically) are found moving their arms and legs without being trapped by cloth of any sort, except for the occasional small fringed skirt or tunic, not always worn simultaneously. There were other times when dancing took place in the nude, with nothing but a single ribbon tied loosely about the waist.
It is believed that the dances originally started as a way of both mourning the dead and appeasing the goddess Sekhmet, who, as the myth goes, once nearly destroyed all of mankind when asked by the sun god Ra to punish those who had forgotten him.
Other tomb depictions show dancers following funeral processions, and in some cases, performing moves more closely associated with acrobatics and gymnastics than strictly dancing. During these processions, it was common for dancers to skip or leap into the air, which was a way of honoring and welcoming the goddess Hathor, who was believed to meet the dead at the entrance to the underworld. By properly honoring Hathor, it assured them that the newly deceased would reach his or her destination well at the hands of the goddess.
While we may not know the particular meaning of every step or movement made by a dancer during any given dance they performed, we understand that they were almost entirely religious in nature, and meant to honor, celebrate, mourn, or pacify. And in a culture so profoundly entwined in religion, most of the honoring and pacifying was in the name of one or many of their gods, who they believed helped them frequently during the passage of a day, not to mention the passage of time.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
dance and cultrue of itly
A huge explosion will be detonated Easter Sunday in front of the magnificent green– and white–marbled neogothic church in Florence's centro storico. Instead of running in fear from a terrorist's bomb, though, thousands of spectators will cheer the noise and smoke, for they will be witnesses to the annual Scoppio del Carro—explosion of the cart.
For over 300 years the Easter celebration in Florence has included this ritual, during which an elaborate wagon, a structure built in 1679 and standing two to three stories high, is dragged through Florence behind a fleet of white oxen decorated in garlands. The pageantry ends in front of the Basilica di S. Maria del Fiore, where Mass is held. During the midday service, a holy fire is stoked by ancient stone chips from the Holy Sepulcher, and the Archbishop lights a dove–shaped rocket which travels down a wire and collides with the cart in the square, setting off spectacular fireworks and explosions to the cheers of all. A big bang ensures a good harvest, and a parade in medieval costume follows.
Tradition and ritual play a strong role in Italian culture, especially during celebrations such as Easter, the Christian holiday based on the pagan festival called Eostur-Monath. No matter what date Easter falls on, there are many ceremonies and culinary customs that are religiously upheld. Some traditions are regional, for instance the art of palm weaving, in which decorative crosses and other designs are created from the palms received on Palm Sunday.
Easter Ceremonies in Italy
At Vatican City there are a series of solemn events that culminate in Easter Sunday Mass. During the spring holy days that center around the vernal equinox there are also many other rites practiced throughout the country that have their roots in historic pagan rituals. In addition, the Monday following Easter is an official Italian holiday called la Pasquetta, so if traveling be prepared for another day of repose.
* Tredozio: On Easter Monday the Palio dell'Uovo is a competition where eggs are the stars of the games.
* Merano: The Corse Rusticane are conducted, fascinating races with a special breed of horses famous for their blonde manes ridden by youths wearing the local costumes of their towns. Before the race, the participants parade through the streets of the town followed by a band and folk dance groups.
* Barano d'Ischia: On Easter Monday the 'Ndrezzata takes place—a dance which revives the fights against the Saracens.
* Carovigno: On the Saturday before Easter is a procession dedicated to the Madonna del Belvedere during which the 'Nzeghe contest takes place: banners must be hurled as far as possible.
* Enna: Religious rites dating back to the Spanish domination (fifteenth through seventeenth century) take place in this Sicilian town. On Good Friday, the different religious confraternities gather around the main church and over 2,000 friars wearing ancient costumes silently parade through the streets of the city. On Easter Sunday, the Paci ceremony takes place: the statue of the Virgin and that of Jesus Christ are first taken to the main square and then into the church where they stay for a week.
For over 300 years the Easter celebration in Florence has included this ritual, during which an elaborate wagon, a structure built in 1679 and standing two to three stories high, is dragged through Florence behind a fleet of white oxen decorated in garlands. The pageantry ends in front of the Basilica di S. Maria del Fiore, where Mass is held. During the midday service, a holy fire is stoked by ancient stone chips from the Holy Sepulcher, and the Archbishop lights a dove–shaped rocket which travels down a wire and collides with the cart in the square, setting off spectacular fireworks and explosions to the cheers of all. A big bang ensures a good harvest, and a parade in medieval costume follows.
Tradition and ritual play a strong role in Italian culture, especially during celebrations such as Easter, the Christian holiday based on the pagan festival called Eostur-Monath. No matter what date Easter falls on, there are many ceremonies and culinary customs that are religiously upheld. Some traditions are regional, for instance the art of palm weaving, in which decorative crosses and other designs are created from the palms received on Palm Sunday.
Easter Ceremonies in Italy
At Vatican City there are a series of solemn events that culminate in Easter Sunday Mass. During the spring holy days that center around the vernal equinox there are also many other rites practiced throughout the country that have their roots in historic pagan rituals. In addition, the Monday following Easter is an official Italian holiday called la Pasquetta, so if traveling be prepared for another day of repose.
* Tredozio: On Easter Monday the Palio dell'Uovo is a competition where eggs are the stars of the games.
* Merano: The Corse Rusticane are conducted, fascinating races with a special breed of horses famous for their blonde manes ridden by youths wearing the local costumes of their towns. Before the race, the participants parade through the streets of the town followed by a band and folk dance groups.
* Barano d'Ischia: On Easter Monday the 'Ndrezzata takes place—a dance which revives the fights against the Saracens.
* Carovigno: On the Saturday before Easter is a procession dedicated to the Madonna del Belvedere during which the 'Nzeghe contest takes place: banners must be hurled as far as possible.
* Enna: Religious rites dating back to the Spanish domination (fifteenth through seventeenth century) take place in this Sicilian town. On Good Friday, the different religious confraternities gather around the main church and over 2,000 friars wearing ancient costumes silently parade through the streets of the city. On Easter Sunday, the Paci ceremony takes place: the statue of the Virgin and that of Jesus Christ are first taken to the main square and then into the church where they stay for a week.
dance and culture of london
Photography, dance and culture from bali to london
Erza S.T., CONTRIBUTOR, JAKARTA | Sun, 01/10/2010 3:51 PM | Life
A | A | A |
For some of us, Bali is already too familiar and perhaps overrated. However, during a recent dinner at the residence of the British Ambassador in Jakarta, I discovered an aspect of Bali that I have not previously encountered.
During the dinner, the ambassador, H.E. Mr. Martin Hatfull, introduced us to Dr. Fiona Kerlogue, who is the exhibition curator for London's famous Horniman Museum.
The museum, which houses the collections of tea trader, liberal MP and philanthropist Frederick Horniman, is among London's most popular art establishments.
This site opened as a public museum in 1901. Since then, the museum has built a strong reputation based on its important collections and the way it offers visitors an inspiring window into the richness and diversity of cultural expression.
It is not surprising this museum has received numerous awards including Museum of The Year.
Dr. Kerlogue was in town to work on a project about Bali titled "Bali: Stories and Dance" - which is what Horniman Museum is working on for its upcoming exhibition.
Following is a conversation with Dr. Kerlogue about the project.
Question: I understand the Horniman Museum intends to showcase the richness and diversity of cultural expression in the world by choosing a certain area to explore and exhibit. What is the reason behind choosing Bali as the focus for this project?
Answer: Our exhibitions sometimes follow a theme and sometimes focus on a particular place. Bali was chosen for this exhibition because we have a historic collection of around 4,000 photographs taken by Walter Spies in Bali in the 1930s.
The photographs center on dance and drama. It is a very important collection and we want visitors to the exhibition to be able to see a selection of them. We will also include a collection of dance costumes and other items from Bali to place the photographs in context.
You said the project was based on the existing photography collection of the museum taken by Beryl de Zoete in Bali in the 1930s. How difficult is it for you to trace back all these places? How big is the change?
It is not easy to identify all the places where the photographs were taken since there have been many changes in Bali. Many temples have new gateways and some suffered damage during volcanic eruptions, so they may look quite different now. However, with help from colleagues in Bali, we have been able to identify many of the places in the photographs, and even some of the people. I have visited many of the villages mentioned in the book written by Walter Spies and Beryl de Zoete, and people in the villages often recognize the ceremonies and scenes in the photographs.
The exhibition is scheduled for May 2011. How is it going so far? Could you tell us about your journey in Bali until now?
I have made four short trips to Bali, and plan one more next year. I have traveled throughout the island, as we hope to represent each of the eight kabupaten *regencies*.
I have filmed excerpts of dance and drama in Bangli, Karangasem, Buleleng, Gianyar, Jembrana, Tabanan, Klungkung and Badung. Most of these have been at temple ceremonies. There are still one or two dances which Walter Spies photographed that I have not yet filmed or photographed. I also spend a lot of time learning about other aspects of Balinese culture.
It is quite impressive for me to see the way you dedicate so much effort, time and love to learn about our culture. Is there any help or assistance from our government for this project yet?
The Indonesian Embassy in London has been very helpful in putting me in touch with partners in Indonesia. His Excellency Pak Yuri Octavian Thamrin also hosted a fund-raising dinner at the embassy earlier this year.
We are hoping to obtain further support nearer to the time of the exhibition, especially in bringing performers from Indonesia to London during the exhibition.
What are the main obstacles so far in this project?
Everyone has been very helpful and there have really not been any major obstacles. But as with all such projects, we do need financial support to make the most of the exhibition.
An important aspect of this would be the publication of a book containing a selection of the best photographs to make them available to everyone, but this will be expensive.
We are also hoping to purchase a gamelan set to use during the exhibition to accompany dance performances and to be used in visitor workshops; we are currently looking for a suitable set to bring to the UK.
Your project, I believe, is a project that Indonesians should participate in as it is part of promoting our country. How can we participate to help you finalize this project and exhibit it to the world?
Many Indonesians have already helped by giving me information about the photographs and helping me with my research. In particular, Professor I Wayan Dibia from the Institute of Arts in Denpasar has been enormously helpful.
In a more general way, we are hoping to bring the photographic element of the exhibition to Indonesia in 2012, probably to Denpasar and Jakarta. I hope that Indonesians will come to see the photographs, which are an important aspect of Indonesia's cultural heritage.
We are committed to making this a major celebration of Balinese culture, putting Indonesia under the international spotlight in the run up to the Olympics. However, we need the support of corporate partners to make it truly successful. Anyone who would like to help us is welcome to contact me at the Museum.
If you interested in learning more about the project or even participating on becoming a partner in this project, you can contact:
Dr. Fiona Kerlogue:
fkerlogue@horniman.ac.uk
Horniman Museum:
www.horniman.ac.uk
Erza S.T., CONTRIBUTOR, JAKARTA | Sun, 01/10/2010 3:51 PM | Life
A | A | A |
For some of us, Bali is already too familiar and perhaps overrated. However, during a recent dinner at the residence of the British Ambassador in Jakarta, I discovered an aspect of Bali that I have not previously encountered.
During the dinner, the ambassador, H.E. Mr. Martin Hatfull, introduced us to Dr. Fiona Kerlogue, who is the exhibition curator for London's famous Horniman Museum.
The museum, which houses the collections of tea trader, liberal MP and philanthropist Frederick Horniman, is among London's most popular art establishments.
This site opened as a public museum in 1901. Since then, the museum has built a strong reputation based on its important collections and the way it offers visitors an inspiring window into the richness and diversity of cultural expression.
It is not surprising this museum has received numerous awards including Museum of The Year.
Dr. Kerlogue was in town to work on a project about Bali titled "Bali: Stories and Dance" - which is what Horniman Museum is working on for its upcoming exhibition.
Following is a conversation with Dr. Kerlogue about the project.
Question: I understand the Horniman Museum intends to showcase the richness and diversity of cultural expression in the world by choosing a certain area to explore and exhibit. What is the reason behind choosing Bali as the focus for this project?
Answer: Our exhibitions sometimes follow a theme and sometimes focus on a particular place. Bali was chosen for this exhibition because we have a historic collection of around 4,000 photographs taken by Walter Spies in Bali in the 1930s.
The photographs center on dance and drama. It is a very important collection and we want visitors to the exhibition to be able to see a selection of them. We will also include a collection of dance costumes and other items from Bali to place the photographs in context.
You said the project was based on the existing photography collection of the museum taken by Beryl de Zoete in Bali in the 1930s. How difficult is it for you to trace back all these places? How big is the change?
It is not easy to identify all the places where the photographs were taken since there have been many changes in Bali. Many temples have new gateways and some suffered damage during volcanic eruptions, so they may look quite different now. However, with help from colleagues in Bali, we have been able to identify many of the places in the photographs, and even some of the people. I have visited many of the villages mentioned in the book written by Walter Spies and Beryl de Zoete, and people in the villages often recognize the ceremonies and scenes in the photographs.
The exhibition is scheduled for May 2011. How is it going so far? Could you tell us about your journey in Bali until now?
I have made four short trips to Bali, and plan one more next year. I have traveled throughout the island, as we hope to represent each of the eight kabupaten *regencies*.
I have filmed excerpts of dance and drama in Bangli, Karangasem, Buleleng, Gianyar, Jembrana, Tabanan, Klungkung and Badung. Most of these have been at temple ceremonies. There are still one or two dances which Walter Spies photographed that I have not yet filmed or photographed. I also spend a lot of time learning about other aspects of Balinese culture.
It is quite impressive for me to see the way you dedicate so much effort, time and love to learn about our culture. Is there any help or assistance from our government for this project yet?
The Indonesian Embassy in London has been very helpful in putting me in touch with partners in Indonesia. His Excellency Pak Yuri Octavian Thamrin also hosted a fund-raising dinner at the embassy earlier this year.
We are hoping to obtain further support nearer to the time of the exhibition, especially in bringing performers from Indonesia to London during the exhibition.
What are the main obstacles so far in this project?
Everyone has been very helpful and there have really not been any major obstacles. But as with all such projects, we do need financial support to make the most of the exhibition.
An important aspect of this would be the publication of a book containing a selection of the best photographs to make them available to everyone, but this will be expensive.
We are also hoping to purchase a gamelan set to use during the exhibition to accompany dance performances and to be used in visitor workshops; we are currently looking for a suitable set to bring to the UK.
Your project, I believe, is a project that Indonesians should participate in as it is part of promoting our country. How can we participate to help you finalize this project and exhibit it to the world?
Many Indonesians have already helped by giving me information about the photographs and helping me with my research. In particular, Professor I Wayan Dibia from the Institute of Arts in Denpasar has been enormously helpful.
In a more general way, we are hoping to bring the photographic element of the exhibition to Indonesia in 2012, probably to Denpasar and Jakarta. I hope that Indonesians will come to see the photographs, which are an important aspect of Indonesia's cultural heritage.
We are committed to making this a major celebration of Balinese culture, putting Indonesia under the international spotlight in the run up to the Olympics. However, we need the support of corporate partners to make it truly successful. Anyone who would like to help us is welcome to contact me at the Museum.
If you interested in learning more about the project or even participating on becoming a partner in this project, you can contact:
Dr. Fiona Kerlogue:
fkerlogue@horniman.ac.uk
Horniman Museum:
www.horniman.ac.uk
dance and culture of america
dance.
Cloth Dancing
The Ladies Cloth dancing is very similar to Buckskin, except the dresses are made of cloth. Photo.
Explanation of Dances
This page about Dances at Spirit Bear's Tipi is a more complete list than I have seen elsewhere. The explanations are quite good, and are accompanied by a photo illustration.
Fancy Dancing - Men's
"The Oklahoma Feather Dancer or 'fancy dancer' is the most popular style of dance and outfit seen at modern powwows throughout the Plains."
Fancy Dancing - Women's
Fancy Shawl is often called Northern Shawl, as this newest form comes from the Northern Tribes. This women's dance is quite athletic; you need to be in good shape!
Gourd Dance
This is a separate dance from regular Pow Wow dances, done before the Grand Entry of a Pow Wow. There is a good description on this page.
Grass Dancing
A thorough article, with photos, on this popular style of men's dance that is performed all around the country.
Green Corn Dance
A special spiritual event held by Seminole Tribe of Florida each spring. Few non-Indians have witnessed this dance.
Jingle Dancing
This page gives the story of the origin of the healing jingle dress, also known as a prayer dress.
Native American Dances
This page features excellent photos of some dance groups featured at the Cortez Cultural Center, Cortez, Colorado, near the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe.
PowWow Dances
This site has such a good set of articles, though brief, on PowWow Dances, it just had to be included here.
Straight Dancing
This men's dance, which features a "formal, tailored, prestigious form of Southern dance clothes," is originally from Oklahoma.
Traditional Dancing
This form of men's dancing, that has "evolved over the years from old-time Sioux Outfit," is the oldest form of Native American dancing.
Cloth Dancing
The Ladies Cloth dancing is very similar to Buckskin, except the dresses are made of cloth. Photo.
Explanation of Dances
This page about Dances at Spirit Bear's Tipi is a more complete list than I have seen elsewhere. The explanations are quite good, and are accompanied by a photo illustration.
Fancy Dancing - Men's
"The Oklahoma Feather Dancer or 'fancy dancer' is the most popular style of dance and outfit seen at modern powwows throughout the Plains."
Fancy Dancing - Women's
Fancy Shawl is often called Northern Shawl, as this newest form comes from the Northern Tribes. This women's dance is quite athletic; you need to be in good shape!
Gourd Dance
This is a separate dance from regular Pow Wow dances, done before the Grand Entry of a Pow Wow. There is a good description on this page.
Grass Dancing
A thorough article, with photos, on this popular style of men's dance that is performed all around the country.
Green Corn Dance
A special spiritual event held by Seminole Tribe of Florida each spring. Few non-Indians have witnessed this dance.
Jingle Dancing
This page gives the story of the origin of the healing jingle dress, also known as a prayer dress.
Native American Dances
This page features excellent photos of some dance groups featured at the Cortez Cultural Center, Cortez, Colorado, near the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe.
PowWow Dances
This site has such a good set of articles, though brief, on PowWow Dances, it just had to be included here.
Straight Dancing
This men's dance, which features a "formal, tailored, prestigious form of Southern dance clothes," is originally from Oklahoma.
Traditional Dancing
This form of men's dancing, that has "evolved over the years from old-time Sioux Outfit," is the oldest form of Native American dancing.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
culture of saudi arabia
Music and dance
a Bedouin woman performing a sword dance, c. 1910
One of Saudi Arabia's most compelling folk rituals is the Al Ardha, the country's national dance. This sword dance is based on ancient Bedouin traditions: drummers beat out a rhythm and a poet chants verses while sword-carrying men dance shoulder to shoulder. Al-sihba folk music, from the Hejaz, has its origins in al-Andalus. In Mecca, Medina and Jeddah, dance and song incorporate the sound of the mizmar, an oboe-like woodwind instrument in the performance of the mizmar dance. The drum is also an important instrument according to traditional and tribal customs. Samri is a popular traditional form of music and dance in which poetry is sung.
[edit] Dress
Saudi Arabian dress follows strictly the principles of hijab (the Islamic principle of modesty, especially in dress). The predominantly loose and flowing but covering garments are helpful in Saudi Arabia's desert climate. Traditionally, men usually wear an ankle-length shirt woven from wool or cotton (known as a thawb), with a keffiyeh (a large checkered square of cotton held in place by a cord coil) or a ghutra (a plain white square made of finer cotton, also held in place by a cord coil) worn on the head. For rare chilly days, Saudi men wear a camel-hair cloak (bisht) over the top. Women's clothes are decorated with tribal motifs, coins, sequins, metallic thread, and appliques. Women are required to wear an abaya and niqab when in public. The Saudi niqāb usually leaves a long open slot for the eyes; the slot is held together by a string or narrow strip of cloth.[2] Many also have two or more sheer layers attached to the upper band, which can be worn flipped down to cover the eyes.
[edit] Food
Islamic dietary laws forbid the eating of pork and the drinking of alcohol, and this law is enforced strictly throughout Saudi Arabia. The most popular food in Saudi Arabia is kabsa which is rice and meat. Arabic unleavened bread, or khubz, is eaten with almost all meals. Other staples include lamb, grilled chicken, falafel (deep-fried chickpea balls), shawarma (spit-cooked sliced lamb), and Ful medames (a paste of fava beans, garlic and lemon). Traditional coffeehouses used to be ubiquitous, but are now being displaced by food-hall style cafes. Arabic tea is also a famous custom, which is used in both casual and formal meetings between friends, family and even strangers. The tea is black (without milk) and has herbal flavoring that comes in many variations.
[edit] Film and theatre
Public theatres and cinemas had been prohibited for over three decades, as Wahhabi tradition deemed those institutions to be incompatible with Islam. However, in June 2009, citizens finally got a chance to go to the movies when Menahi, a film produced by Rotana, owned by Saudi Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, began showing in the King Fahd cultural centre in Riyadh.
However, an IMAX theatre is available,[3] and in private compounds such as Dhahran and Ras Tanura public theaters can be found, but often are more popular for local music, arts, and theatre productions rather than the exhibition of motion pictures. DVD retail sales, including American and British movies, are legal and widely available.
[edit] Literature
Some Saudi novelists have had their books published in Aden, Yemen, because of censorship in Saudi Arabia. Despite signs of increasing openness, Saudi novelists and artists in film, theatre, and the visual arts face greater restrictions on their freedom of expression than in the West. Contemporary Saudi novelists include:
* Abdul Rahman Munif (exiled, now deceased)
* Yousef Al-Mohaimeed
* Abdu Khal
* Turki al-Hamad (subject of a fatwā and death threats)
* Ali al-Domaini (in jail)
* Ahmed Abodehman (now writes in French)
* Raja'a Alem
* Abdullah Al-emi
* Rajaa Al Sanie, author of best-selling novel Girls of Riyadh
[edit] Religion
Main article: Freedom_of_religion_in_Saudi_Arabia
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is an Islamic theocratic monarchy in which Islam is the official religion; the law requires that all Saudi citizens be Muslims. Religious freedom is non-existent. The Government does not provide legal recognition or protection for freedom of religion, and it is severely restricted in practice. Moreover, the public practice of non-Muslim religions is prohibited.[4] The Saudi Mutaween (Arabic: مطوعين), or Committee for the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice (i.e., the religious police), enforces the prohibition on the public practice of non-Muslim religions.
For this reason, Saudi culture lacks the diversity of religious expression, buildings, annual festivals and public events that is seen in countries where religious freedom is permitted.
a Bedouin woman performing a sword dance, c. 1910
One of Saudi Arabia's most compelling folk rituals is the Al Ardha, the country's national dance. This sword dance is based on ancient Bedouin traditions: drummers beat out a rhythm and a poet chants verses while sword-carrying men dance shoulder to shoulder. Al-sihba folk music, from the Hejaz, has its origins in al-Andalus. In Mecca, Medina and Jeddah, dance and song incorporate the sound of the mizmar, an oboe-like woodwind instrument in the performance of the mizmar dance. The drum is also an important instrument according to traditional and tribal customs. Samri is a popular traditional form of music and dance in which poetry is sung.
[edit] Dress
Saudi Arabian dress follows strictly the principles of hijab (the Islamic principle of modesty, especially in dress). The predominantly loose and flowing but covering garments are helpful in Saudi Arabia's desert climate. Traditionally, men usually wear an ankle-length shirt woven from wool or cotton (known as a thawb), with a keffiyeh (a large checkered square of cotton held in place by a cord coil) or a ghutra (a plain white square made of finer cotton, also held in place by a cord coil) worn on the head. For rare chilly days, Saudi men wear a camel-hair cloak (bisht) over the top. Women's clothes are decorated with tribal motifs, coins, sequins, metallic thread, and appliques. Women are required to wear an abaya and niqab when in public. The Saudi niqāb usually leaves a long open slot for the eyes; the slot is held together by a string or narrow strip of cloth.[2] Many also have two or more sheer layers attached to the upper band, which can be worn flipped down to cover the eyes.
[edit] Food
Islamic dietary laws forbid the eating of pork and the drinking of alcohol, and this law is enforced strictly throughout Saudi Arabia. The most popular food in Saudi Arabia is kabsa which is rice and meat. Arabic unleavened bread, or khubz, is eaten with almost all meals. Other staples include lamb, grilled chicken, falafel (deep-fried chickpea balls), shawarma (spit-cooked sliced lamb), and Ful medames (a paste of fava beans, garlic and lemon). Traditional coffeehouses used to be ubiquitous, but are now being displaced by food-hall style cafes. Arabic tea is also a famous custom, which is used in both casual and formal meetings between friends, family and even strangers. The tea is black (without milk) and has herbal flavoring that comes in many variations.
[edit] Film and theatre
Public theatres and cinemas had been prohibited for over three decades, as Wahhabi tradition deemed those institutions to be incompatible with Islam. However, in June 2009, citizens finally got a chance to go to the movies when Menahi, a film produced by Rotana, owned by Saudi Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, began showing in the King Fahd cultural centre in Riyadh.
However, an IMAX theatre is available,[3] and in private compounds such as Dhahran and Ras Tanura public theaters can be found, but often are more popular for local music, arts, and theatre productions rather than the exhibition of motion pictures. DVD retail sales, including American and British movies, are legal and widely available.
[edit] Literature
Some Saudi novelists have had their books published in Aden, Yemen, because of censorship in Saudi Arabia. Despite signs of increasing openness, Saudi novelists and artists in film, theatre, and the visual arts face greater restrictions on their freedom of expression than in the West. Contemporary Saudi novelists include:
* Abdul Rahman Munif (exiled, now deceased)
* Yousef Al-Mohaimeed
* Abdu Khal
* Turki al-Hamad (subject of a fatwā and death threats)
* Ali al-Domaini (in jail)
* Ahmed Abodehman (now writes in French)
* Raja'a Alem
* Abdullah Al-emi
* Rajaa Al Sanie, author of best-selling novel Girls of Riyadh
[edit] Religion
Main article: Freedom_of_religion_in_Saudi_Arabia
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is an Islamic theocratic monarchy in which Islam is the official religion; the law requires that all Saudi citizens be Muslims. Religious freedom is non-existent. The Government does not provide legal recognition or protection for freedom of religion, and it is severely restricted in practice. Moreover, the public practice of non-Muslim religions is prohibited.[4] The Saudi Mutaween (Arabic: مطوعين), or Committee for the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice (i.e., the religious police), enforces the prohibition on the public practice of non-Muslim religions.
For this reason, Saudi culture lacks the diversity of religious expression, buildings, annual festivals and public events that is seen in countries where religious freedom is permitted.
culture of india
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Culture of India
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A Kathakali performer as Krishna. One the eight major Indian classical dances, Kathakali is more than 1,500 years old and its theme is heavily influenced by the Puranas.[1]
The culture of India has been shaped not only by its long history, unique geography and diverse demography, but also by its ancient heritages, which were formed during the Indus Valley Civilization and evolved further during the Vedic age, rise and decline of Buddhism, the Golden age, invasions from Central Asia, European colonization and the rise of Indian nationalism.
The languages, religions, dance, music, architecture and its customs differ from place to place within the country, but nevertheless possess a commonality. The culture of India is an amalgamation of diverse sub-cultures spread all over the country and traditions that are several millennia old.
Contents
[hide]
* 1 Religion
* 2 Society
o 2.1 Overview
o 2.2 Family
o 2.3 Animals
o 2.4 Namaste
o 2.5 Festivals
* 3 Cuisine
* 4 Clothing
* 5 Literature
o 5.1 History
o 5.2 Poetry
o 5.3 Epics
* 6 Performing arts
o 6.1 Music
o 6.2 Dance
o 6.3 Drama and theater
* 7 Visual arts
o 7.1 Painting
o 7.2 Sculpture
o 7.3 Architecture
* 8 Recreation and sports
* 9 Popular media
o 9.1 Television
o 9.2 Cinema
* 10 See also
* 11 References
* 12 Further reading
* 13 External links
[edit] Religion
Close-up of a statue depicting Maitreya at the Thikse Monastery in Ladakh, India. Dharmic religions such as Hinduism and Buddhism are indigenous to India.[2]
Main articles: Religion in India and Indian religions
India is the birth place of Dharmic religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism.[3] Dharmic religions, also known as Indian religions, are a major form of world religions next to the Abrahamic ones. Today, Hinduism and Buddhism are the world's third- and fourth-largest religions respectively, with around 1.4 billion followers altogether.
India is one of the most religiously diverse nations in the world, with some of the most deeply religious societies and cultures. Religion still plays a central and definitive role in the life of most of its people.
The religion of 80% of the people is Hinduism. Islam is practiced by around 13% of all Indians.[4] Sikhism, Jainism and especially Buddhism are influential not only in India but across the world. Christianity, Zoroastrianism, Judaism and the Bahá'í Faith are also influential but their numbers are smaller. Despite the strong role of religion in Indian life, atheism and agnostics also have visible influence along with a self-ascribed tolerance to other people.
[edit] Society
[edit] Overview
According to Eugene M. Makar, traditional Indian culture is defined by relatively strict social hierarchy. He also mentions that from an early age, children are reminded of their roles and places in society.[5] This is reinforced by the fact that many believe gods and spirits have an integral and functional role in determining their life.[5] Several differences such as religion divide the culture.[5] However, a far more powerful division is the traditional Hindu bifurcation into non-polluting and polluting occupations.[5] Strict social taboos have governed these groups for thousands of years.[5] In recent years, particularly in cities, some of these lines have blurred and sometimes even disappeared.[5] The Nuclear family is becoming central to Indian culture. Important family relations extend as far as gotra, the mainly patrilinear lineage or clan assigned to a Hindu at birth.[5] In rural areas & sometimes in urban areas as well, it is common that three or four generations of the family live under the same roof.[5] The patriarch often resolves family issues.[5]
Among developing countries, India has low levels of occupational and geographic mobility. People choose same occupations as their parents and rarely move geographically in the country.[6] During the nationalist movement, pretentious behaviour was something to be avoided. Egalitarian behaviour and social service were promoted while nonessential spending was disliked and spending money for ‘showing off’ was deemed a vice. This image continues in politics with many politicians wearing simple looking / traditionally rural clothes, such as the traditional 'kurta -pyjama' and the 'Gandhi topi'.
[edit] Family
Main articles: Hindu joint family, Arranged marriage in India, and Women in India
A bride during a traditional Punjabi Hindu wedding ceremony.
Family plays a big role in the Indian culture. India for ages has had a prevailing tradition of the joint family system. It’s a system under which even extended members of a family like one’s parents, children, the children’s spouses and their offspring, etc. live together. The elder-most, usually the male member is the head in the joint Indian family system who makes all important decisions and rules, whereas other family members abide by it.
Arranged marriages have the tradition in Indian society for centuries. Even today, overwhelming majority of Indians have their marriages planned by their parents and other respected family-members, with the consent of the bride and groom.[7] Arranged matches were made after taking into account factors such as age, height, personal values and tastes, the backgrounds of their families (wealth, social standing) and their castes and the astrological compatibility of the couples' horoscopes.
In India, the marriage is thought to be for life[8], and the divorce rate is extremely low — 1.1% compared with about 50% in the United States.[9] The arranged marriages generally have a much lower divorce rate. The divorce rates have risen significantly in recent years:
"Opinion is divided over what the phenomenon means: for traditionalists the rising numbers portend the breakdown of society while, for some modernists, they speak of a healthy new empowerment for women."[10]
Although child marriage was outlawed in 1860, it is continued to be practiced in some rural parts of India.[11] According to UNICEF’s “State of the World’s Children-2009” report, 47% of India's women aged 20–24 were married before the legal age of 18, with 56% in rural areas.[12] The report also showed that 40% of the world's child marriages occur in India.[13]
Indian names are based on a variety of systems and naming conventions, which vary from region to region. Names are also influenced by religion and caste and may come from religion or epics. India's population speaks a wide variety of languages.
Although women and men are equal before the law and the trend toward gender equality has been noticeable, women and men still occupy distinct functions in Indian society.Woman's role in the society is often to perform household works and pro bono community work[5]. This low rate of participation has ideological and historical reasons. Women and women's issues appear only 7-14% of the time in news programs.[5] In most Indian families, women do not own any property in their own names, and do not get a share of parental property.[14] Due to weak enforcement of laws protecting them, women continue to have little access to land and property.[15] In many families, especially rural ones, the girls and women face nutritional discrimination within the family, and are anaemic and malnourished.[14] They still lag behind men in terms of income and job status. Traditional Hindu art, such as Rangoli (or Kolam), is very popular among Indian women. Popular and influential woman's magazines include Femina, Grihshobha and Woman's Era', 'Savvy.
[edit] Animals
Cows depicted in the decorated goppuram of the Kapaleeshwarar temple in Chennai
See also: Wildlife of India, Animal husbandry in India, and Cattle in religion
The varied and rich wildlife of India has had a profound impact on the region's popular culture. Common name for wilderness in India is Jungle which was adopted by the British colonialists to the English language. The word has been also made famous in The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling. India's wildlife has been the subject of numerous other tales and fables such as the Panchatantra and the Jataka tales.[16]
In Hinduism, the cow is regarded as a symbol of ahimsa (non-violence), mother goddess and bringer of good fortune and wealth.[17] For this reason, cows are revered in Hindu culture and feeding a cow is that is seen as an act of worship.[18]
[edit] Namaste
Namaste, Namaskar or Namaskaram or Vannakam is a common spoken greeting or salutation in the Indian subcontinent. Namaskar is considered a slightly more formal version than namaste but both express deep respect. It is commonly used in India and Nepal by Hindus, Jains and Buddhists, and many continue to use this outside the Indian subcontinent. In Indian and Nepali culture, the word is spoken at the beginning of written or verbal communication. However, the same hands folded gesture is made usually wordlessly upon departure. In yoga, namaste is said to mean "The light in me honors the light in you," as spoken by both the yoga instructor and yoga students.
Taken literally, it means "I bow to you". The word is derived from Sanskrit (namas): to bow, obeisance, reverential salutation, and respect and (te): "to you".
When spoken to another person, it is commonly accompanied by a slight bow made with hands pressed together, palms touching and fingers pointed upwards, in front of the chest. The gesture can also be performed wordlessly or calling on another god E.g.: "Jai shri Krishna" and carry the same meaning.
Dipawali, a festival of lights, is celebrated by Hindus across India by lighting diyas and making rangolis.
[edit] Festivals
Main article: Festivals in India
India, being a multi-cultural and multi-religious society, celebrates holidays and festivals of various religions. The three national holidays in India, the Independence Day, the Republic Day and the Gandhi Jayanti, are celebrated with zeal and enthusiasm across India. In addition, many states and regions have local festivals depending on prevalent religious and linguistic demographics. Popular religious festivals include the Hindu festivals of Navratri Diwali, Ganesh Chaturthi, Durga puja, Holi, Rakshabandhan and Dussehra. Several harvest festivals, such as Sankranthi, Pongal and Onam,"Nuakhai" are also fairly popular. Certain festivals in India are celebrated by multiple religions. Notable examples include Diwali which celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains and Buddh Purnima which is celebrated by Buddhists and Hindus. Islamic festivals, such Eid ul-Fitr, Eid al-Adha and Ramadan, are celebrated by Muslims across India. Adding colors to the culture of India, the Dree Festival is one of the tribal festivals of India celebrated by the Apatanis of the Ziro valley of Arunachal Pradesh, which is the easternmost state of this country.
[edit] Cuisine
Main article: Cuisine of India
A variety of Indian curries and vegetable dishes.
The multiple families of Indian cuisine are characterized by their sophisticated and subtle use of many spices and herbs. Each family of this cuisine is characterized by a wide assortment of dishes and cooking techniques. Though a significant portion of Indian food is vegetarian, many traditional Indian dishes also include chicken, goat, lamb, fish, and other meats.
Food is an important part of Indian culture, playing a role in everyday life as well as in festivals. Indian cuisine varies from region to region, reflecting the varied demographics of the ethnically diverse subcontinent. Generally, Indian cuisine can be split into five categories: North, South, East,West Indian and North-eastern India.
Despite this diversity, some unifying threads emerge. Varied uses of spices are an integral part of food preparation, and are used to enhance the flavor of a dish and create unique flavors and aromas. Cuisine across India has also been influenced by various cultural groups that entered India throughout history, such as the Persians, Mughals, and European colonists. Though the tandoor originated in Central Asia, Indian tandoori dishes, such as chicken tikka made with Indian ingredients, enjoy widespread popularity.[19]
Indian cuisine is one of the most popular cuisines across the globe.[20] Historically, Indian spices and herbs were one of the most sought after trade commodities. The spice trade between India and Europe led to the rise and dominance of Arab traders to such an extent that European explorers, such as Vasco da Gama and Christopher Columbus, set out to find new trade routes with India leading to the Age of Discovery.[21] The popularity of curry, which originated in India, across Asia has often led to the dish being labeled as the "pan-Asian" dish.[22]
[edit] Clothing
A girl from Tripura sports a bindi while preparing to take part in a traditional dance festival.
Traditional Indian clothing for women are the saris and also Ghaghra Cholis (Lehengas). For men, traditional clothes are the Dhoti/pancha/veshti or Kurta. Delhi is considered to be India's fashion capital, housing the annual Fashion weeks. In some village parts of India, traditional clothing mostly will be worn. Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Ahmedabad, and Pune are all places for people who like to shop. In southern India the men wear long, white sheets of cloth called dhoti in English and in Tamil. Over the dhoti, men wear shirts, t-shirts, or anything else. Women wear a sari, a long sheet of colourful cloth with patterns. This is draped over a simple or fancy blouse. This is worn by young ladies and woman. Little girls wear a pavada. A pavada is a long skirt worn under a blouse. Both are often gaily patterned. Bindi is part of the women's make-up. Traditionally, the red bindi (or sindhur) was worn only by the married Hindu women, but now it has become a part of women's fashion. A bindi is also worn by some as their third eye. It sees what the others eyes can't and protect your brain from the outside and the sun.[23] Indo-western clothing is the fusion of Western and Subcontinental fashion. Churidar, Dupatta, Gamchha, Kurta, Mundum Neriyathum, Sherwani, uttariya are among
[edit] Literature
[edit] History
Main article: Indian literature
Rabindranath Tagore, Asia's first Nobel laureate.[24]
The earliest works of Indian literature were orally transmitted[citation needed]. Sanskrit literature begins with the Rig Veda a collection of sacred hymns dating to the period 1500–1200 BCE. The Sanskrit epics Ramayana and Mahabharata appeared towards the end of the first millennium BCE. Classical Sanskrit literature flourished in the first few centuries of the first millennium CE. Tamil literature begins with the sangam literature a collection of sacred hymns dating to the period 10000BC–1200 BCE[citation needed] . The Tamil epics tolkappiyam and thirukural appeared towards the end of the first millennium BCE[citation needed]. Classical Tamil literature succeeded well in the first few centuries of the first millennium CE[citation needed] .
In the medieval period, literature in Kannada and Telugu appears in the 9th and 10th and 11th centuries respectively,[25] followed by the first Malayalam works in the 12th century. During this time, literature in the Tamil, Bengali, Marathi, and various dialects of Hindi, and Urdu began to appear as well.
Some of the most important authors from India are Rabindranath Tagore, Ramdhari Singh 'Dinkar', Subramania Barathi Kuvempu, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, Michael Madhusudan Dutt, Munshi Premchand, Muhammad Iqbal, Devaki Nandan Khatri became well known. In contemporary India, among the writers who have received critical acclaim are: Girish Karnad, Agyeya, Nirmal Verma, Kamleshwar, Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, Indira Goswami, Mahasweta Devi, Amrita Pritam, Maasti Venkatesh Ayengar, Qurratulain Hyder and Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai and others have received critical acclaim.
In contemporary Indian literature, there are two major literary awards; these are the Sahitya Akademi Fellowship and the Jnanpith Award. Seven Jnanpith awards each have been awarded in Kannada, six in Hindi, five in Bengali, four in Malayalam, three each in and Marathi, Gujarati, Urdu and Oriya.[26]
[edit] Poetry
Main article: Indian poetry
Illustration of the Battle of Kurukshetra. With more than 74,000 verses, long prose passages, and about 1.8 million words in total, the Mahābhārata is one of the longest epic poems in the world.
India has strong traditions of poetry ever since the Rigveda, as well as prose compositions. Poetry is often closely related to musical traditions, and much of poetry can be attributed to religious movements. Writers and philosophers were often also skilled poets. In modern times, poetry has served as an important non-violent tool of nationalism during the Indian freedom movement. A famous modern example of this tradition can be found in such figures as Rabindranath Tagore, Kuvempu and K. S. Narasimhaswamy in modern times and poets such as Basava (vachanas) , Kabir and Purandaradasa (padas and devaranamas) in medieval times, as well as the epics of ancient times. Two examples of poetry from Tagore's Gitanjali serve as the national anthems of both India and Bangladesh.
[edit] Epics
The Ramayana and Mahabharata are the oldest preserved and still well-known epics of India; some of their versions have been adopted as the epics of Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. In addition, there are five epics in the classical Tamil language are Silappadhikaram, Manimegalai, Civaka Cintamani, Valaiyapathi, Kundalakesi.
Other regional variations of them as well as unrelated epics include the Tamil Kamba Ramayanam, in Kannada, the Pampa Bharata by Adikavi Pampa, Torave Ramayana by Kumara Valmiki and Karnata Bharata Katha Manjari by Kumaravyasa, Hindi Ramacharitamanasa, Malayalam Adhyathmaramayanam.
[edit] Performing arts
[edit] Music
Panchavadyam temple music in Kerala.
Main article: Music of India
The music of India includes multiples varieties of religious, folk, popular, pop, and classical music. The oldest preserved examples of Indian music are the melodies of the Samaveda that are still sung in certain Vedic Śrauta sacrifices. India's classical music tradition is heavily influenced by Hindu texts. It includes two distinct styles: Carnatic and Hindustani music. It is noted for the use of several Raga, melodic modes. it has a history spanning millennia and it was developed over several eras. It remains instrumental to the religious inspiration, cultural expression and pure entertainment.
Purandaradasa is considered the "father of carnatic music" (Karnataka sangeeta pitamaha).[27][28][29] He concluded his songs with a salutation to Lord Purandara Vittala and is believed to have composed as many as 475,000[30] songs in the Kannada language. However, only about 1000 are known today.[27][31]
[edit] Dance
Main article: Indian dance
Odissi dancer in front of the Konark Sun Temple.
Indian dance too has diverse folk and classical forms. Among the well-known folk dances are the bhangra of the Punjab, the bihu of Assam, the chhau of Jharkhand and Orissa, the ghoomar of Rajasthan, the dandiya and garba of Gujarat, the Yakshagana of Karnataka and lavani of Maharashtra and Dekhnni of Goa. Eight dance forms, many with narrative forms and mythological elements, have been accorded classical dance status by India's National Academy of Music, Dance, and Drama. These are: bharatanatyam of the state of Tamil Nadu, kathak of Uttar Pradesh, kathakali and mohiniattam of Kerala, kuchipudi of Andhra Pradesh, manipuri of Manipur, odissi of the state of Orissa and the sattriya of Assam.[32][33]
Kalarippayattu or Kalari for short is considered one of the world's oldest martial arts. It is preserved in texts such as the Mallapurana. Kalari and other later formed martial arts have been assumed by some to have traveled to China, like Buddhism, and eventually developing into Kung-fu. Other later martial arts are Gatka, Pehlwani and Malla-yuddha. There have been many great prout
[edit] Drama and theater
Natyacarya Mani Madhava Chakyar as Ravana in Bhasa's Abhiṣeka Nataka Kutiyattam - one of the oldest surviving drama tradition of the world.
Main article: Theatre in India
Indian drama and theater has a long history alongside its music and dance. Kalidasa's plays like Shakuntala and Meghadoota are some of the older plays, following those of Bhasa. One of the oldest surviving theatre tradition of the world is the 2000 year old Kutiyattam of Kerala. It strictly follows the Natya Shastra[34]. The natak of Bhasa are very popular in this art form. Nātyāchārya (late) Padma Shri Māni Mādhava Chākyār- the unrivaled maestro of this art form and Abhinaya, revived the age old drama tradition from extinction. He was known for mastery of Rasa Abhinaya. He started to perform the Kalidasa plays like Abhijñānaśākuntala, Vikramorvaśīya and Mālavikāgnimitra; Bhasa's Swapnavāsavadatta and Pancharātra; Harsha's Nagananda in Kutiyattam form[35][36]
The tradition of folk theater is popular in most linguistic regions of India. In addition, there is a rich tradition of puppet theater in rural India, going back to at least the second century BCE. (It is mentioned in Patanjali's commentary on Panini). Group Theater is also thriving in the cities, initiated by the likes of Gubbi Veeranna,[37] Utpal Dutt, Khwaja Ahmad Abbas, K. V. Subbanna and still maintained by groups like Nandikar, Ninasam and Prithvi Theatre.
[edit] Visual arts
Main article: Indian art
[edit] Painting
Main article: Indian painting
The Jataka tales from Ajanta Caves.
The earliest Indian paintings were the rock paintings of pre-historic times, the petroglyphs as found in places like Bhimbetka, some of which go back to the Stone Age. Ancient texts outline theories of darragh and anecdotal accounts suggesting that it was common for households to paint their doorways or indoor rooms where guests resided.
Cave paintings from Ajanta, Bagh, Ellora and Sittanavasal and temple paintings testify to a love of naturalism. Most early and medieval art in India is Hindu, Buddhist or Jain. A freshly made coloured flour design (Rangoli) is still a common sight outside the doorstep of many (mostly South Indian) Indian homes. Raja Ravi Varma is one the classical painters from medieval India.
Madhubani painting, Mysore painting, Rajput painting, Tanjore painting, Mughal painting are some notable Genres of Indian Art; while Nandalal Bose, M. F. Husain, S. H. Raza, Geeta Vadhera, Jamini Roy and B.Venkatappa[38] are some modern painters. Among the present day artists, Atul Dodiya, Bose Krishnamacnahri, Devajyoti Ray and Shibu Natesan represent a new era of Indian art where global art shows direct amalgamation with Indian classical styles. These recent artists have acquired international recognition. Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai, Mysore Palace has on display a few good Indian paintings.
[edit] Sculpture
Main article: Sculpture in India
Hindu sculptures at the famous Khajuraho temple in Madhya Pradesh.
The first sculptures in India date back to the Indus Valley civilization, where stone and bronze figures have been discovered. Later, as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism developed further, India produced some extremely intricate bronzes as well as temple carvings. Some huge shrines, such as the one at Ellora were not constructed by using blocks but carved out of solid rock.
Sculptures produced in the northwest, in stucco, schist, or clay, display a very strong blend of Indian and Classical Hellenistic or possibly even Greco-Roman influence. The pink sandstone sculptures of Mathura evolved almost simultaneously. During the Gupta period (4th to 6th century) sculpture reached a very high standard in execution and delicacy in modeling. These styles and others elsewhere in India evolved leading to classical Indian art that contributed to Buddhist and Hindu sculpture throughout Southeast Central and East Asia.
[edit] Architecture
Main article: Indian architecture
The Umaid Bhawan Palace in Rajasthan, one of the largest private residences in the world.[39]
Indian architecture encompasses a multitude of expressions over space and time, constantly absorbing new ideas. The result is an evolving range of architectural production that nonetheless retains a certain amount of continuity across history. Some of its earliest production are found in the Indus Valley Civilization (2600-1900 BCE) which is characterised by well planned cities and houses. Religion and kingship do not seem to have played an important role in the planning and layout of these towns.
During the period of the Mauryan and Gupta empires and their successors, several Buddhist architectural complexes, such as the caves of Ajanta and Ellora and the monumental Sanchi Stupa were built. Later on, South India produced several Hindu temples like Chennakesava Temple at Belur, the Hoysaleswara Temple at Halebidu, and the Kesava Temple at Somanathapura, Brihadeeswara Temple, Thanjavur, the Sun Temple, Konark, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam, and the Buddha stupa (Chinna Lanja dibba and Vikramarka kota dibba) at Bhattiprolu. Angkor Wat, Borobudur and other Buddhist and Hindu temples indicate strong Indian influence on South East Asian architecture, as they are built in styles almost identical to traditional Indian religious buildings.
Akshardham in Delhi the largest Hindu temple in the world.
The traditional system of Vaastu Shastra serves as India's version of Feng Shui, influencing town planning, architecture, and ergonomics. It is unclear which system is older, but they contain certain similarities. Feng Shui is more commonly used throughout the world. Though Vastu is conceptually similar to Feng Shui in that it also tries to harmonize the flow of energy, (also called life-force or Prana in Sanskrit and Chi/Ki in Chinese/Japanese), through the house, it differs in the details, such as the exact directions in which various objects, rooms, materials, etc. are to be placed.
With the advent of Islamic influence from the west, Indian architecture was adapted to allow the traditions of the new religion. Fatehpur Sikri, Taj Mahal, Gol Gumbaz, Qutub Minar, Red Fort of Delhi are creations of this era, and are often used as the stereotypical symbols of India. The colonial rule of the British Empire saw the development of Indo-Saracenic style, and mixing of several other styles, such as European Gothic. The Victoria Memorial or the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus are notable examples.
Indian architecture has influenced eastern and southeastern Asia, due to the spread of Buddhism. A number of Indian architectural features such as the temple mound or stupa, temple spire or sikhara, temple tower or pagoda and temple gate or torana, have become famous symbols of Asian culture, used extensively in East Asia and South East Asia. The central spire is also sometimes called a vimanam. The southern temple gate, or gopuram is noted for its intricacy and majesty.
Contemporary Indian architecture is more cosmopolitan. Cities are extremely compact and densely populated. Mumbai's Nariman Point is famous for its Art Deco buildings. Recent creations such as the Lotus Temple, and the various modern urban developments of India like Chandigarh, are notable.
[edit] Recreation and sports
Main article: Sports in India
See also: kabaddi and Indian chess
The annual snake boat race is performed during Onam Celebrations on the Pamba River at Aranmula near Pathanamthitta.
In the area of recreation and sports India had evolved a number of games. The modern eastern martial arts originated as ancient games and martial arts in India, and it is believed by some that these games were transmitted to foreign countries, where they were further adapted and modernized. Traditional indigenous sports include kabaddi and gilli-danda, which are played in most parts of the country.
A few games introduced during the British Raj have grown quite popular in India: field hockey, football (soccer) and especially cricket. Although field hockey is India's official national sport, cricket is by far the most popular sport not only in India, but the entire subcontinent, thriving recreationally and professionally. Cricket has even been used recently as a forum for diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan. The two nations' cricket teams face off annually and such contests are quite impassioned on both sides. Polo is also popular.
Indoor and outdoor games like Chess, Snakes and Ladders, Playing cards, Carrom, Badminton are popular. Chess was invented in India.
Games of strength and speed flourished in India. In ancient India stones were used for weights, marbles, and dice. Ancient Indians competed in chariot racing, archery, horsemanship, military tactics, wrestling, weight lifting, hunting, swimming and running races.
[edit] Popular media
[edit] Television
Main article: Television in India
See also: List of Indian television stations
Indian television started off in 1959 in New Delhi with tests for educational telecasts.[40] Indian small screen programming started off in the mid 1970s. At that time there was only one national channel Doordarshan, which was government owned. 1982 saw revolution in TV programming in India, with the New Delhi Asian games, India saw the colour version of TV, that year. The Ramayana and Mahabharat were some among the popular television series produced. By the late 1980s more and more people started to own television sets. Though there was a single channel, television programming had reached saturation. Hence the government opened up another channel which had part national programming and part regional. This channel was known as DD 2 later DD Metro. Both channels were broadcasted terrestrially.
In 1991, the government liberated its markets, opening them up to cable television. Since then, there has been a spurt in the number of channels available. Today, Indian silver screen is a huge industry by itself, and has thousands of programmes in all the states of India. The small screen has produced numerous celebrities of their own kind some even attaining national fame for themselves. TV soaps are extremely popular with housewives as well as working women, and even men of all kinds. Some lesser known actors have found success in Bollywood. Indian TV now has many of the same channels as Western TV, including stations such as Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, and MTV India.
Culture of India
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A Kathakali performer as Krishna. One the eight major Indian classical dances, Kathakali is more than 1,500 years old and its theme is heavily influenced by the Puranas.[1]
The culture of India has been shaped not only by its long history, unique geography and diverse demography, but also by its ancient heritages, which were formed during the Indus Valley Civilization and evolved further during the Vedic age, rise and decline of Buddhism, the Golden age, invasions from Central Asia, European colonization and the rise of Indian nationalism.
The languages, religions, dance, music, architecture and its customs differ from place to place within the country, but nevertheless possess a commonality. The culture of India is an amalgamation of diverse sub-cultures spread all over the country and traditions that are several millennia old.
Contents
[hide]
* 1 Religion
* 2 Society
o 2.1 Overview
o 2.2 Family
o 2.3 Animals
o 2.4 Namaste
o 2.5 Festivals
* 3 Cuisine
* 4 Clothing
* 5 Literature
o 5.1 History
o 5.2 Poetry
o 5.3 Epics
* 6 Performing arts
o 6.1 Music
o 6.2 Dance
o 6.3 Drama and theater
* 7 Visual arts
o 7.1 Painting
o 7.2 Sculpture
o 7.3 Architecture
* 8 Recreation and sports
* 9 Popular media
o 9.1 Television
o 9.2 Cinema
* 10 See also
* 11 References
* 12 Further reading
* 13 External links
[edit] Religion
Close-up of a statue depicting Maitreya at the Thikse Monastery in Ladakh, India. Dharmic religions such as Hinduism and Buddhism are indigenous to India.[2]
Main articles: Religion in India and Indian religions
India is the birth place of Dharmic religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism.[3] Dharmic religions, also known as Indian religions, are a major form of world religions next to the Abrahamic ones. Today, Hinduism and Buddhism are the world's third- and fourth-largest religions respectively, with around 1.4 billion followers altogether.
India is one of the most religiously diverse nations in the world, with some of the most deeply religious societies and cultures. Religion still plays a central and definitive role in the life of most of its people.
The religion of 80% of the people is Hinduism. Islam is practiced by around 13% of all Indians.[4] Sikhism, Jainism and especially Buddhism are influential not only in India but across the world. Christianity, Zoroastrianism, Judaism and the Bahá'í Faith are also influential but their numbers are smaller. Despite the strong role of religion in Indian life, atheism and agnostics also have visible influence along with a self-ascribed tolerance to other people.
[edit] Society
[edit] Overview
According to Eugene M. Makar, traditional Indian culture is defined by relatively strict social hierarchy. He also mentions that from an early age, children are reminded of their roles and places in society.[5] This is reinforced by the fact that many believe gods and spirits have an integral and functional role in determining their life.[5] Several differences such as religion divide the culture.[5] However, a far more powerful division is the traditional Hindu bifurcation into non-polluting and polluting occupations.[5] Strict social taboos have governed these groups for thousands of years.[5] In recent years, particularly in cities, some of these lines have blurred and sometimes even disappeared.[5] The Nuclear family is becoming central to Indian culture. Important family relations extend as far as gotra, the mainly patrilinear lineage or clan assigned to a Hindu at birth.[5] In rural areas & sometimes in urban areas as well, it is common that three or four generations of the family live under the same roof.[5] The patriarch often resolves family issues.[5]
Among developing countries, India has low levels of occupational and geographic mobility. People choose same occupations as their parents and rarely move geographically in the country.[6] During the nationalist movement, pretentious behaviour was something to be avoided. Egalitarian behaviour and social service were promoted while nonessential spending was disliked and spending money for ‘showing off’ was deemed a vice. This image continues in politics with many politicians wearing simple looking / traditionally rural clothes, such as the traditional 'kurta -pyjama' and the 'Gandhi topi'.
[edit] Family
Main articles: Hindu joint family, Arranged marriage in India, and Women in India
A bride during a traditional Punjabi Hindu wedding ceremony.
Family plays a big role in the Indian culture. India for ages has had a prevailing tradition of the joint family system. It’s a system under which even extended members of a family like one’s parents, children, the children’s spouses and their offspring, etc. live together. The elder-most, usually the male member is the head in the joint Indian family system who makes all important decisions and rules, whereas other family members abide by it.
Arranged marriages have the tradition in Indian society for centuries. Even today, overwhelming majority of Indians have their marriages planned by their parents and other respected family-members, with the consent of the bride and groom.[7] Arranged matches were made after taking into account factors such as age, height, personal values and tastes, the backgrounds of their families (wealth, social standing) and their castes and the astrological compatibility of the couples' horoscopes.
In India, the marriage is thought to be for life[8], and the divorce rate is extremely low — 1.1% compared with about 50% in the United States.[9] The arranged marriages generally have a much lower divorce rate. The divorce rates have risen significantly in recent years:
"Opinion is divided over what the phenomenon means: for traditionalists the rising numbers portend the breakdown of society while, for some modernists, they speak of a healthy new empowerment for women."[10]
Although child marriage was outlawed in 1860, it is continued to be practiced in some rural parts of India.[11] According to UNICEF’s “State of the World’s Children-2009” report, 47% of India's women aged 20–24 were married before the legal age of 18, with 56% in rural areas.[12] The report also showed that 40% of the world's child marriages occur in India.[13]
Indian names are based on a variety of systems and naming conventions, which vary from region to region. Names are also influenced by religion and caste and may come from religion or epics. India's population speaks a wide variety of languages.
Although women and men are equal before the law and the trend toward gender equality has been noticeable, women and men still occupy distinct functions in Indian society.Woman's role in the society is often to perform household works and pro bono community work[5]. This low rate of participation has ideological and historical reasons. Women and women's issues appear only 7-14% of the time in news programs.[5] In most Indian families, women do not own any property in their own names, and do not get a share of parental property.[14] Due to weak enforcement of laws protecting them, women continue to have little access to land and property.[15] In many families, especially rural ones, the girls and women face nutritional discrimination within the family, and are anaemic and malnourished.[14] They still lag behind men in terms of income and job status. Traditional Hindu art, such as Rangoli (or Kolam), is very popular among Indian women. Popular and influential woman's magazines include Femina, Grihshobha and Woman's Era', 'Savvy.
[edit] Animals
Cows depicted in the decorated goppuram of the Kapaleeshwarar temple in Chennai
See also: Wildlife of India, Animal husbandry in India, and Cattle in religion
The varied and rich wildlife of India has had a profound impact on the region's popular culture. Common name for wilderness in India is Jungle which was adopted by the British colonialists to the English language. The word has been also made famous in The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling. India's wildlife has been the subject of numerous other tales and fables such as the Panchatantra and the Jataka tales.[16]
In Hinduism, the cow is regarded as a symbol of ahimsa (non-violence), mother goddess and bringer of good fortune and wealth.[17] For this reason, cows are revered in Hindu culture and feeding a cow is that is seen as an act of worship.[18]
[edit] Namaste
Namaste, Namaskar or Namaskaram or Vannakam is a common spoken greeting or salutation in the Indian subcontinent. Namaskar is considered a slightly more formal version than namaste but both express deep respect. It is commonly used in India and Nepal by Hindus, Jains and Buddhists, and many continue to use this outside the Indian subcontinent. In Indian and Nepali culture, the word is spoken at the beginning of written or verbal communication. However, the same hands folded gesture is made usually wordlessly upon departure. In yoga, namaste is said to mean "The light in me honors the light in you," as spoken by both the yoga instructor and yoga students.
Taken literally, it means "I bow to you". The word is derived from Sanskrit (namas): to bow, obeisance, reverential salutation, and respect and (te): "to you".
When spoken to another person, it is commonly accompanied by a slight bow made with hands pressed together, palms touching and fingers pointed upwards, in front of the chest. The gesture can also be performed wordlessly or calling on another god E.g.: "Jai shri Krishna" and carry the same meaning.
Dipawali, a festival of lights, is celebrated by Hindus across India by lighting diyas and making rangolis.
[edit] Festivals
Main article: Festivals in India
India, being a multi-cultural and multi-religious society, celebrates holidays and festivals of various religions. The three national holidays in India, the Independence Day, the Republic Day and the Gandhi Jayanti, are celebrated with zeal and enthusiasm across India. In addition, many states and regions have local festivals depending on prevalent religious and linguistic demographics. Popular religious festivals include the Hindu festivals of Navratri Diwali, Ganesh Chaturthi, Durga puja, Holi, Rakshabandhan and Dussehra. Several harvest festivals, such as Sankranthi, Pongal and Onam,"Nuakhai" are also fairly popular. Certain festivals in India are celebrated by multiple religions. Notable examples include Diwali which celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains and Buddh Purnima which is celebrated by Buddhists and Hindus. Islamic festivals, such Eid ul-Fitr, Eid al-Adha and Ramadan, are celebrated by Muslims across India. Adding colors to the culture of India, the Dree Festival is one of the tribal festivals of India celebrated by the Apatanis of the Ziro valley of Arunachal Pradesh, which is the easternmost state of this country.
[edit] Cuisine
Main article: Cuisine of India
A variety of Indian curries and vegetable dishes.
The multiple families of Indian cuisine are characterized by their sophisticated and subtle use of many spices and herbs. Each family of this cuisine is characterized by a wide assortment of dishes and cooking techniques. Though a significant portion of Indian food is vegetarian, many traditional Indian dishes also include chicken, goat, lamb, fish, and other meats.
Food is an important part of Indian culture, playing a role in everyday life as well as in festivals. Indian cuisine varies from region to region, reflecting the varied demographics of the ethnically diverse subcontinent. Generally, Indian cuisine can be split into five categories: North, South, East,West Indian and North-eastern India.
Despite this diversity, some unifying threads emerge. Varied uses of spices are an integral part of food preparation, and are used to enhance the flavor of a dish and create unique flavors and aromas. Cuisine across India has also been influenced by various cultural groups that entered India throughout history, such as the Persians, Mughals, and European colonists. Though the tandoor originated in Central Asia, Indian tandoori dishes, such as chicken tikka made with Indian ingredients, enjoy widespread popularity.[19]
Indian cuisine is one of the most popular cuisines across the globe.[20] Historically, Indian spices and herbs were one of the most sought after trade commodities. The spice trade between India and Europe led to the rise and dominance of Arab traders to such an extent that European explorers, such as Vasco da Gama and Christopher Columbus, set out to find new trade routes with India leading to the Age of Discovery.[21] The popularity of curry, which originated in India, across Asia has often led to the dish being labeled as the "pan-Asian" dish.[22]
[edit] Clothing
A girl from Tripura sports a bindi while preparing to take part in a traditional dance festival.
Traditional Indian clothing for women are the saris and also Ghaghra Cholis (Lehengas). For men, traditional clothes are the Dhoti/pancha/veshti or Kurta. Delhi is considered to be India's fashion capital, housing the annual Fashion weeks. In some village parts of India, traditional clothing mostly will be worn. Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Ahmedabad, and Pune are all places for people who like to shop. In southern India the men wear long, white sheets of cloth called dhoti in English and in Tamil. Over the dhoti, men wear shirts, t-shirts, or anything else. Women wear a sari, a long sheet of colourful cloth with patterns. This is draped over a simple or fancy blouse. This is worn by young ladies and woman. Little girls wear a pavada. A pavada is a long skirt worn under a blouse. Both are often gaily patterned. Bindi is part of the women's make-up. Traditionally, the red bindi (or sindhur) was worn only by the married Hindu women, but now it has become a part of women's fashion. A bindi is also worn by some as their third eye. It sees what the others eyes can't and protect your brain from the outside and the sun.[23] Indo-western clothing is the fusion of Western and Subcontinental fashion. Churidar, Dupatta, Gamchha, Kurta, Mundum Neriyathum, Sherwani, uttariya are among
[edit] Literature
[edit] History
Main article: Indian literature
Rabindranath Tagore, Asia's first Nobel laureate.[24]
The earliest works of Indian literature were orally transmitted[citation needed]. Sanskrit literature begins with the Rig Veda a collection of sacred hymns dating to the period 1500–1200 BCE. The Sanskrit epics Ramayana and Mahabharata appeared towards the end of the first millennium BCE. Classical Sanskrit literature flourished in the first few centuries of the first millennium CE. Tamil literature begins with the sangam literature a collection of sacred hymns dating to the period 10000BC–1200 BCE[citation needed] . The Tamil epics tolkappiyam and thirukural appeared towards the end of the first millennium BCE[citation needed]. Classical Tamil literature succeeded well in the first few centuries of the first millennium CE[citation needed] .
In the medieval period, literature in Kannada and Telugu appears in the 9th and 10th and 11th centuries respectively,[25] followed by the first Malayalam works in the 12th century. During this time, literature in the Tamil, Bengali, Marathi, and various dialects of Hindi, and Urdu began to appear as well.
Some of the most important authors from India are Rabindranath Tagore, Ramdhari Singh 'Dinkar', Subramania Barathi Kuvempu, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, Michael Madhusudan Dutt, Munshi Premchand, Muhammad Iqbal, Devaki Nandan Khatri became well known. In contemporary India, among the writers who have received critical acclaim are: Girish Karnad, Agyeya, Nirmal Verma, Kamleshwar, Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, Indira Goswami, Mahasweta Devi, Amrita Pritam, Maasti Venkatesh Ayengar, Qurratulain Hyder and Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai and others have received critical acclaim.
In contemporary Indian literature, there are two major literary awards; these are the Sahitya Akademi Fellowship and the Jnanpith Award. Seven Jnanpith awards each have been awarded in Kannada, six in Hindi, five in Bengali, four in Malayalam, three each in and Marathi, Gujarati, Urdu and Oriya.[26]
[edit] Poetry
Main article: Indian poetry
Illustration of the Battle of Kurukshetra. With more than 74,000 verses, long prose passages, and about 1.8 million words in total, the Mahābhārata is one of the longest epic poems in the world.
India has strong traditions of poetry ever since the Rigveda, as well as prose compositions. Poetry is often closely related to musical traditions, and much of poetry can be attributed to religious movements. Writers and philosophers were often also skilled poets. In modern times, poetry has served as an important non-violent tool of nationalism during the Indian freedom movement. A famous modern example of this tradition can be found in such figures as Rabindranath Tagore, Kuvempu and K. S. Narasimhaswamy in modern times and poets such as Basava (vachanas) , Kabir and Purandaradasa (padas and devaranamas) in medieval times, as well as the epics of ancient times. Two examples of poetry from Tagore's Gitanjali serve as the national anthems of both India and Bangladesh.
[edit] Epics
The Ramayana and Mahabharata are the oldest preserved and still well-known epics of India; some of their versions have been adopted as the epics of Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. In addition, there are five epics in the classical Tamil language are Silappadhikaram, Manimegalai, Civaka Cintamani, Valaiyapathi, Kundalakesi.
Other regional variations of them as well as unrelated epics include the Tamil Kamba Ramayanam, in Kannada, the Pampa Bharata by Adikavi Pampa, Torave Ramayana by Kumara Valmiki and Karnata Bharata Katha Manjari by Kumaravyasa, Hindi Ramacharitamanasa, Malayalam Adhyathmaramayanam.
[edit] Performing arts
[edit] Music
Panchavadyam temple music in Kerala.
Main article: Music of India
The music of India includes multiples varieties of religious, folk, popular, pop, and classical music. The oldest preserved examples of Indian music are the melodies of the Samaveda that are still sung in certain Vedic Śrauta sacrifices. India's classical music tradition is heavily influenced by Hindu texts. It includes two distinct styles: Carnatic and Hindustani music. It is noted for the use of several Raga, melodic modes. it has a history spanning millennia and it was developed over several eras. It remains instrumental to the religious inspiration, cultural expression and pure entertainment.
Purandaradasa is considered the "father of carnatic music" (Karnataka sangeeta pitamaha).[27][28][29] He concluded his songs with a salutation to Lord Purandara Vittala and is believed to have composed as many as 475,000[30] songs in the Kannada language. However, only about 1000 are known today.[27][31]
[edit] Dance
Main article: Indian dance
Odissi dancer in front of the Konark Sun Temple.
Indian dance too has diverse folk and classical forms. Among the well-known folk dances are the bhangra of the Punjab, the bihu of Assam, the chhau of Jharkhand and Orissa, the ghoomar of Rajasthan, the dandiya and garba of Gujarat, the Yakshagana of Karnataka and lavani of Maharashtra and Dekhnni of Goa. Eight dance forms, many with narrative forms and mythological elements, have been accorded classical dance status by India's National Academy of Music, Dance, and Drama. These are: bharatanatyam of the state of Tamil Nadu, kathak of Uttar Pradesh, kathakali and mohiniattam of Kerala, kuchipudi of Andhra Pradesh, manipuri of Manipur, odissi of the state of Orissa and the sattriya of Assam.[32][33]
Kalarippayattu or Kalari for short is considered one of the world's oldest martial arts. It is preserved in texts such as the Mallapurana. Kalari and other later formed martial arts have been assumed by some to have traveled to China, like Buddhism, and eventually developing into Kung-fu. Other later martial arts are Gatka, Pehlwani and Malla-yuddha. There have been many great prout
[edit] Drama and theater
Natyacarya Mani Madhava Chakyar as Ravana in Bhasa's Abhiṣeka Nataka Kutiyattam - one of the oldest surviving drama tradition of the world.
Main article: Theatre in India
Indian drama and theater has a long history alongside its music and dance. Kalidasa's plays like Shakuntala and Meghadoota are some of the older plays, following those of Bhasa. One of the oldest surviving theatre tradition of the world is the 2000 year old Kutiyattam of Kerala. It strictly follows the Natya Shastra[34]. The natak of Bhasa are very popular in this art form. Nātyāchārya (late) Padma Shri Māni Mādhava Chākyār- the unrivaled maestro of this art form and Abhinaya, revived the age old drama tradition from extinction. He was known for mastery of Rasa Abhinaya. He started to perform the Kalidasa plays like Abhijñānaśākuntala, Vikramorvaśīya and Mālavikāgnimitra; Bhasa's Swapnavāsavadatta and Pancharātra; Harsha's Nagananda in Kutiyattam form[35][36]
The tradition of folk theater is popular in most linguistic regions of India. In addition, there is a rich tradition of puppet theater in rural India, going back to at least the second century BCE. (It is mentioned in Patanjali's commentary on Panini). Group Theater is also thriving in the cities, initiated by the likes of Gubbi Veeranna,[37] Utpal Dutt, Khwaja Ahmad Abbas, K. V. Subbanna and still maintained by groups like Nandikar, Ninasam and Prithvi Theatre.
[edit] Visual arts
Main article: Indian art
[edit] Painting
Main article: Indian painting
The Jataka tales from Ajanta Caves.
The earliest Indian paintings were the rock paintings of pre-historic times, the petroglyphs as found in places like Bhimbetka, some of which go back to the Stone Age. Ancient texts outline theories of darragh and anecdotal accounts suggesting that it was common for households to paint their doorways or indoor rooms where guests resided.
Cave paintings from Ajanta, Bagh, Ellora and Sittanavasal and temple paintings testify to a love of naturalism. Most early and medieval art in India is Hindu, Buddhist or Jain. A freshly made coloured flour design (Rangoli) is still a common sight outside the doorstep of many (mostly South Indian) Indian homes. Raja Ravi Varma is one the classical painters from medieval India.
Madhubani painting, Mysore painting, Rajput painting, Tanjore painting, Mughal painting are some notable Genres of Indian Art; while Nandalal Bose, M. F. Husain, S. H. Raza, Geeta Vadhera, Jamini Roy and B.Venkatappa[38] are some modern painters. Among the present day artists, Atul Dodiya, Bose Krishnamacnahri, Devajyoti Ray and Shibu Natesan represent a new era of Indian art where global art shows direct amalgamation with Indian classical styles. These recent artists have acquired international recognition. Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai, Mysore Palace has on display a few good Indian paintings.
[edit] Sculpture
Main article: Sculpture in India
Hindu sculptures at the famous Khajuraho temple in Madhya Pradesh.
The first sculptures in India date back to the Indus Valley civilization, where stone and bronze figures have been discovered. Later, as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism developed further, India produced some extremely intricate bronzes as well as temple carvings. Some huge shrines, such as the one at Ellora were not constructed by using blocks but carved out of solid rock.
Sculptures produced in the northwest, in stucco, schist, or clay, display a very strong blend of Indian and Classical Hellenistic or possibly even Greco-Roman influence. The pink sandstone sculptures of Mathura evolved almost simultaneously. During the Gupta period (4th to 6th century) sculpture reached a very high standard in execution and delicacy in modeling. These styles and others elsewhere in India evolved leading to classical Indian art that contributed to Buddhist and Hindu sculpture throughout Southeast Central and East Asia.
[edit] Architecture
Main article: Indian architecture
The Umaid Bhawan Palace in Rajasthan, one of the largest private residences in the world.[39]
Indian architecture encompasses a multitude of expressions over space and time, constantly absorbing new ideas. The result is an evolving range of architectural production that nonetheless retains a certain amount of continuity across history. Some of its earliest production are found in the Indus Valley Civilization (2600-1900 BCE) which is characterised by well planned cities and houses. Religion and kingship do not seem to have played an important role in the planning and layout of these towns.
During the period of the Mauryan and Gupta empires and their successors, several Buddhist architectural complexes, such as the caves of Ajanta and Ellora and the monumental Sanchi Stupa were built. Later on, South India produced several Hindu temples like Chennakesava Temple at Belur, the Hoysaleswara Temple at Halebidu, and the Kesava Temple at Somanathapura, Brihadeeswara Temple, Thanjavur, the Sun Temple, Konark, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam, and the Buddha stupa (Chinna Lanja dibba and Vikramarka kota dibba) at Bhattiprolu. Angkor Wat, Borobudur and other Buddhist and Hindu temples indicate strong Indian influence on South East Asian architecture, as they are built in styles almost identical to traditional Indian religious buildings.
Akshardham in Delhi the largest Hindu temple in the world.
The traditional system of Vaastu Shastra serves as India's version of Feng Shui, influencing town planning, architecture, and ergonomics. It is unclear which system is older, but they contain certain similarities. Feng Shui is more commonly used throughout the world. Though Vastu is conceptually similar to Feng Shui in that it also tries to harmonize the flow of energy, (also called life-force or Prana in Sanskrit and Chi/Ki in Chinese/Japanese), through the house, it differs in the details, such as the exact directions in which various objects, rooms, materials, etc. are to be placed.
With the advent of Islamic influence from the west, Indian architecture was adapted to allow the traditions of the new religion. Fatehpur Sikri, Taj Mahal, Gol Gumbaz, Qutub Minar, Red Fort of Delhi are creations of this era, and are often used as the stereotypical symbols of India. The colonial rule of the British Empire saw the development of Indo-Saracenic style, and mixing of several other styles, such as European Gothic. The Victoria Memorial or the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus are notable examples.
Indian architecture has influenced eastern and southeastern Asia, due to the spread of Buddhism. A number of Indian architectural features such as the temple mound or stupa, temple spire or sikhara, temple tower or pagoda and temple gate or torana, have become famous symbols of Asian culture, used extensively in East Asia and South East Asia. The central spire is also sometimes called a vimanam. The southern temple gate, or gopuram is noted for its intricacy and majesty.
Contemporary Indian architecture is more cosmopolitan. Cities are extremely compact and densely populated. Mumbai's Nariman Point is famous for its Art Deco buildings. Recent creations such as the Lotus Temple, and the various modern urban developments of India like Chandigarh, are notable.
[edit] Recreation and sports
Main article: Sports in India
See also: kabaddi and Indian chess
The annual snake boat race is performed during Onam Celebrations on the Pamba River at Aranmula near Pathanamthitta.
In the area of recreation and sports India had evolved a number of games. The modern eastern martial arts originated as ancient games and martial arts in India, and it is believed by some that these games were transmitted to foreign countries, where they were further adapted and modernized. Traditional indigenous sports include kabaddi and gilli-danda, which are played in most parts of the country.
A few games introduced during the British Raj have grown quite popular in India: field hockey, football (soccer) and especially cricket. Although field hockey is India's official national sport, cricket is by far the most popular sport not only in India, but the entire subcontinent, thriving recreationally and professionally. Cricket has even been used recently as a forum for diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan. The two nations' cricket teams face off annually and such contests are quite impassioned on both sides. Polo is also popular.
Indoor and outdoor games like Chess, Snakes and Ladders, Playing cards, Carrom, Badminton are popular. Chess was invented in India.
Games of strength and speed flourished in India. In ancient India stones were used for weights, marbles, and dice. Ancient Indians competed in chariot racing, archery, horsemanship, military tactics, wrestling, weight lifting, hunting, swimming and running races.
[edit] Popular media
[edit] Television
Main article: Television in India
See also: List of Indian television stations
Indian television started off in 1959 in New Delhi with tests for educational telecasts.[40] Indian small screen programming started off in the mid 1970s. At that time there was only one national channel Doordarshan, which was government owned. 1982 saw revolution in TV programming in India, with the New Delhi Asian games, India saw the colour version of TV, that year. The Ramayana and Mahabharat were some among the popular television series produced. By the late 1980s more and more people started to own television sets. Though there was a single channel, television programming had reached saturation. Hence the government opened up another channel which had part national programming and part regional. This channel was known as DD 2 later DD Metro. Both channels were broadcasted terrestrially.
In 1991, the government liberated its markets, opening them up to cable television. Since then, there has been a spurt in the number of channels available. Today, Indian silver screen is a huge industry by itself, and has thousands of programmes in all the states of India. The small screen has produced numerous celebrities of their own kind some even attaining national fame for themselves. TV soaps are extremely popular with housewives as well as working women, and even men of all kinds. Some lesser known actors have found success in Bollywood. Indian TV now has many of the same channels as Western TV, including stations such as Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, and MTV India.
culture of sindh
Culture of Sindh
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The culture of Sindh ( سنڌي سڀيتا ) has its roots in the Indus Valley Civilization. Sindh has been shaped by the geography of the largely desert region, the natural resources it had available and the continuous foreign influences. The Indus or Sindhu River that passes through the land, and the Arabian Sea (that defines its borders) also supported the sea-faring traditions among the local people.[1] The local climate also reflects why the Sindhis have the language, folklore, traditions, customs and lifestyle that are so different from the neighbouring regions.[2]
Contents
[hide]
* 1 History
o 1.1 Archaeological discoveries
* 2 Language
* 3 Literature
o 3.1 History
o 3.2 Poetry
* 4 Music
* 5 Cultural character
* 6 Islam in Sindh
* 7 Sports
* 8 Notes
* 9 See also
* 10 External links
[edit] History
Main article: History of Sindh
The roots of Sindhi culture and civilization go back to the distant past. Archaeological researches during 19th and 20th centuries showed the roots of social life, religion and culture of the people of the Sindh: their agricultural practices, traditional arts and crafts, customs and tradition and other parts of social life, going back to a ripe and mature Indus valley civilization of the third millennium B.C. Recent researches have traced the Indus valley civilization to even earlier ancestry.[3]
[edit] Archaeological discoveries
Mohenjo-daro
Archaeological discoveries sometimes help to unfold the certain latent aspects of a specificculture. The excavations of Mohenjo-daro have unfolded the city life of a civilization of people with values, a distinct identity and culture. Therefore, the first definition of the Sindhi culture emanates from that over the 7000 year old Indus Valley Civilization. This is the pre-Aryan period, about 3,000 years B.C., when the urban civilization in Sindh was at its peak.
Ranikot Fort
In Sir Mortimer Wheeler's book, Civilization of the Indus Valley and Beyond, it is said that; "Civilization, in a minimum sense of the term, is the art of living in towns, with all that the condition implies in respect of social skills and disciplines." When people speak of Sindhi civilization, they have to concern themselves, mainly with the material and concrete side of human habitation of which Sindhi culture is the only essence called the superstructure.[original research?] The present day Sindh, along with the Northern part of the Indus Valley Civilization (around 3000 to 2500 B.C.) is located on its urban civilization.[4]
Ranikot Fort is also a landmark of the Indus valley civilization. It is the world's largest fort, with walls extending to 20 km. It has been called a "second Wall of China", and it attracts many visitors.
[edit] Language
Main article: Sindhi language
Sindhi language is an ancient language spoken in Pakistan and many other parts of the world. It is an Indo-Aryan language spoken by approximately 41 million people in Pakistan, and 12 million people in India; it is the second most spoken language of Pakistan, mostly spoken in the Sindh province. It is a recognized official language in Pakistan, and also an official language in India. Government of Pakistan issues National Identity Cards to its citizens only in two languages; Sindhi and Urdu.
[edit] Literature
Main article: Sindhi literature
[edit] History
Sindhi language is ancient and rich in literature. Its writers have contributed extensively in various forms of literature in both poetry and prose. Sindhi literature is very rich, and is one of the world's oldest literatures. The earliest reference to Sindhi literature is contained in the writings of Arab historians. It is established that Sindhi was the first Eastern language into the Quran, when it was translated in the eighth or ninth century A.D. There is evidence of Sindhi poets reciting their verses before the Muslim Caliphs in Baghdad.[5] It is also recorded that treatises were written in Sindhi on astronomy, medicine and history during the eighth and ninth centuries.[6]
[edit] Poetry
Sindhi poetry is also prominent in Sindhi culture. Poetry of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai. Sachal Sarmast is very famous amongst all of Pakistanis. Regional poets are Shaikh Ayaz, Ustaad Bhukhari, Ahmed Khan MAdhoosh. Many Sindhi poets are doing their poetry work continuously.
[edit] Music
Main article: Sindhi music
Sindhi music has its own unique quality. It is performed in many different ways. Sufi music is performed at shrines, and other simple music is performed at studios and gatherings.[7]
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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The culture of Sindh ( سنڌي سڀيتا ) has its roots in the Indus Valley Civilization. Sindh has been shaped by the geography of the largely desert region, the natural resources it had available and the continuous foreign influences. The Indus or Sindhu River that passes through the land, and the Arabian Sea (that defines its borders) also supported the sea-faring traditions among the local people.[1] The local climate also reflects why the Sindhis have the language, folklore, traditions, customs and lifestyle that are so different from the neighbouring regions.[2]
Contents
[hide]
* 1 History
o 1.1 Archaeological discoveries
* 2 Language
* 3 Literature
o 3.1 History
o 3.2 Poetry
* 4 Music
* 5 Cultural character
* 6 Islam in Sindh
* 7 Sports
* 8 Notes
* 9 See also
* 10 External links
[edit] History
Main article: History of Sindh
The roots of Sindhi culture and civilization go back to the distant past. Archaeological researches during 19th and 20th centuries showed the roots of social life, religion and culture of the people of the Sindh: their agricultural practices, traditional arts and crafts, customs and tradition and other parts of social life, going back to a ripe and mature Indus valley civilization of the third millennium B.C. Recent researches have traced the Indus valley civilization to even earlier ancestry.[3]
[edit] Archaeological discoveries
Mohenjo-daro
Archaeological discoveries sometimes help to unfold the certain latent aspects of a specificculture. The excavations of Mohenjo-daro have unfolded the city life of a civilization of people with values, a distinct identity and culture. Therefore, the first definition of the Sindhi culture emanates from that over the 7000 year old Indus Valley Civilization. This is the pre-Aryan period, about 3,000 years B.C., when the urban civilization in Sindh was at its peak.
Ranikot Fort
In Sir Mortimer Wheeler's book, Civilization of the Indus Valley and Beyond, it is said that; "Civilization, in a minimum sense of the term, is the art of living in towns, with all that the condition implies in respect of social skills and disciplines." When people speak of Sindhi civilization, they have to concern themselves, mainly with the material and concrete side of human habitation of which Sindhi culture is the only essence called the superstructure.[original research?] The present day Sindh, along with the Northern part of the Indus Valley Civilization (around 3000 to 2500 B.C.) is located on its urban civilization.[4]
Ranikot Fort is also a landmark of the Indus valley civilization. It is the world's largest fort, with walls extending to 20 km. It has been called a "second Wall of China", and it attracts many visitors.
[edit] Language
Main article: Sindhi language
Sindhi language is an ancient language spoken in Pakistan and many other parts of the world. It is an Indo-Aryan language spoken by approximately 41 million people in Pakistan, and 12 million people in India; it is the second most spoken language of Pakistan, mostly spoken in the Sindh province. It is a recognized official language in Pakistan, and also an official language in India. Government of Pakistan issues National Identity Cards to its citizens only in two languages; Sindhi and Urdu.
[edit] Literature
Main article: Sindhi literature
[edit] History
Sindhi language is ancient and rich in literature. Its writers have contributed extensively in various forms of literature in both poetry and prose. Sindhi literature is very rich, and is one of the world's oldest literatures. The earliest reference to Sindhi literature is contained in the writings of Arab historians. It is established that Sindhi was the first Eastern language into the Quran, when it was translated in the eighth or ninth century A.D. There is evidence of Sindhi poets reciting their verses before the Muslim Caliphs in Baghdad.[5] It is also recorded that treatises were written in Sindhi on astronomy, medicine and history during the eighth and ninth centuries.[6]
[edit] Poetry
Sindhi poetry is also prominent in Sindhi culture. Poetry of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai. Sachal Sarmast is very famous amongst all of Pakistanis. Regional poets are Shaikh Ayaz, Ustaad Bhukhari, Ahmed Khan MAdhoosh. Many Sindhi poets are doing their poetry work continuously.
[edit] Music
Main article: Sindhi music
Sindhi music has its own unique quality. It is performed in many different ways. Sufi music is performed at shrines, and other simple music is performed at studios and gatherings.[7]
Saturday, May 29, 2010
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