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HANDBOOK ON TOURISM RESOURCES AND PRODUCTS OF JAMMU AND KASHMIR
Tourism Products
Tourism
Tourism is the temporary movement of people to destinations outside their normal place of work and residence. Such a pleasure-seeking tourist is a traveller moving from place to place or visiting the same place time and again. Tourism includes all economic activities which are organised around the needs of such travellers. Any travel for holidays, business, or professional trip becomes a part of tourism if it is temporary and is undertaken voluntarily, without an aim to earn any livelihood out of it.
Tourists: are temporary visitors staying at least for 24 hours in the country visited by them as the purpose of whose visit can be leisure or business.
EXCURSIONS: are temporary visitors visiting a particular place for a period of fewer than 24 hours.
MEANING AND DEFINITION OF TOURISM PRODUCTS
A tourism product can be defined as the sum of the physical and psychological satisfaction it provides to tourists during their travelling en route to the destination. The tourist product focuses on facilities and services designed to meet the needs of the tourist. It can be seen as a composite product, as the sum total of a country’s tourist attractions, transport, and accommodation and of entertainment which result in customer satisfaction. Each of the components of a tourist product is supplied by individual providers of services like hotel
Companies, airlines, travel agencies, etc.
The tourist product can be analysed in terms of its attraction, accessibility, and accommodation.
Attractions
Of the three basic components of a tourist product, attractions are very important. Unless there is an attraction, the tourist will not be motivated to go to a particular place. Attractions are those elements in a product that determine the choice made by a particular tourist to visit one particular destination rather than another. The attractions could be cultural, like sites and areas of archaeological interest, historical buildings, and monuments, flora and fauna, beach resorts, mountains, national parks or events like trade fairs, exhibitions, arts and music festivals, games, etc. wilderness and solitude. Scenery or landscape is a compound of landforms; water and vegetation and has an aesthetic and recreative value. Climate conditions, especially in relation to the amount of sunshine, temperature, and precipitation (snow as well as rain), are of special significance.
Accessibility
It is a means by which a tourist can reach the area where attractions are located. Tourist attractions of whatever type would be of little importance if their locations are inaccessible by the normal means of transport. A Tourist in order to get to his destination needs some mode of transport. This mode may be a motor car, a coach, an aeroplane, a ship or a train which enables
him to reach his predetermined destination. If tourist destinations are located at places where no transport can reach or where there are inadequate transport facilities, they become of little value. The tourist attractions, which are located near the tourist generating markets and are linked by a network of efficient means of transport, receive the maximum number of tourists. The distance factor also plays an important role in determining a tourist’s choice of a destination. Longer distances cost much more in the way of expenses on travel as compared to short distances.
Accommodation
The accommodation and other facilities complements the attractions. Accommodation plays a central role and is very basic to tourist destinations. World Tourism Organization in its definition of a tourist has stated that he must spend at least one night in the destination visited, to qualify as a tourist. This presupposes availability of some kind of accommodation. The demand for accommodation away from one’s home is met by a variety of facilities. The range and type of accommodation is quite varied and has undergone considerable change since the last half century. There has been a decline in the use of boarding houses and small private hotels. Larger hotels are increasing their share of holiday trade, especially in big metropolitan areas and popular spots. In more traditional holiday and sea-side resorts in Europe and elsewhere, big hotels are keeping their share of holiday resorts. In recent years, some changes have been reflected in the type of accommodation. There has been an increasing demand for more non- traditional and informal types of accommodation.
Amenities
Facilities are a necessary aid to the tourist centre. For a sea-side resort, facilities like swimming, boating, yachting, surf-riding, and other facilities like dancing, recreation and other amusements are important for every tourist centre. Amenities can be of two types; natural, eg. Beaches, sea-bathing, possibilities of fishing, opportunities for climbing, trekking, viewing, etc. and man-made, e g. Various types of entertainment and facilities which cater to the special needs of the tourists. Excellent sandy beaches, sheltered from sunshine with palm and coconut trees and offering good bathing conditions form very good tourist attractions. Certain other natural amenities such as spacious waters for the purpose of sailing, or the opportunities for fishing and hunting are also very important.
CHARACTERISTICS OF TOURISM PRODUCTS
Tourism products are mainly service products or services which have several characteristics. For example, in the business tourism, conference planning and management is a service offered by large hotels and convention centres. Fairs and festivals are events which are offered for enjoyment only at a particular time of the year and these are perishable and variable. In India, cultural attractions in the forms of dances and music can be seen and enjoyed. Other products which tourists consume like wildlife, and flora and fauna are natural products. Some of the characteristics are:
1. Intangible
Unlike a tangible product, say, a motor car or refrigerator, no transfer of ownership of goods is involved in tourism. The product here cannot be seen or inspected before its purchase. Instead, certain facilities, installations, items of equipment are made available for a specified time and for a specified use. For example, a seat in an aeroplane is provided only for a specified time.
2. Highly Perishable
A travel agent or tour operator who sells a tourism product cannot store it. Production can only
take place if the customer is actually present. And once consumption begins, it cannot be stopped, interrupted or modified. If the product remains unused, the chances are lost i.e. if tourists do not visit a particular place, the opportunity at that time is lost. It is due to this reason that heavy discount is offered by hotels and transport generating organisations during off season.
3. Heterogeneous
Tourism is not a homogeneous product since it tends to vary in standard and quality over time, unlike a T.V set or any other manufactured product. A package tour or even a flight on an aircraft can’t be consistent at all times. The reason is that this product is a service and services are people based. Due to this, there is variability in this product. All individuals vary and even the same individual may not perform the same every time. For instance, all air Hostesses cannot provide the same quality of service and even the same air hostess may not perform uniformly in the morning and evening. Thus, services cannot be standardised.
4. Unstable Demand
Tourism demand is influenced by seasonal, economic political and others such factors. There are certain times of the year which see a greater demand than others. At these times there is a greater strain on services like hotel bookings, employment, the transport system, etc.
CLASSIFICATION OF TOURISM PRODUCTS
The tourism product which is a combination of tangible and intangible products can be a thing, an event, or a place which motivates the tourists towards it. There are different ways in which the tourist products can be classified.
Different Types of Tourism Products
The tourism product which is a combination of tangible and intangible products can be a thing, an event, or a place which motivates the tourists towards it. There are different ways in which the tourist products can be classified.
1 Natural Tourism Products
These include natural resources such as areas, climate and its setting, landscape and natural environment. Natural resources are frequently the key elements in a destination’s attraction. Some examples:
1. Countryside
2. Climate- temperature, rains, snowfall, days of sunshine
3. Natural Beauty- landforms, hills, rocks, gorges, terrain
4. Water- lakes, ponds, rivers, waterfalls, springs
5. Flora and Fauna
6. Wildlife
7. Beaches
8. Islands
9. Spas
10. Scenic Attractions
2. Man Made Tourism Products
Man- made tourism products are created by man for pleasure, leisure or business. Man- made tourism products include:
(a) Culture
• Sites and areas of archaeological interest
• Historical buildings and monuments
• Places of historical significance
• Museums and art galleries
• Political and educational institutions
• Religious institutions
Cultural tourism is based Cultural tourism is based on the mosaic of places, traditions, art forms, celebrations and experiences that portray the nation and its people, reflecting the diversity and character of a country.
(b) Traditions
• Pilgrimages
• Fairs and festivals
• Arts and handicrafts
• Dance
• Music
• Folklore
• Native life and custom
RESOURCE AND ATTRACTION IN TOURISM
Resource-based tourism is tourism based on using and enjoying the natural environment and resources on Crown lands and waters.
WEATHER AND CLIMATIC RESOURCES
India is a land of varied climates. The regional climatic variations in India may be ascribed to five factors: (i) the vast size of the country, (ii) the tapering shape of its peninsula, (iii) the latitudinal extent astride the Tropic of cancer, (iv) the situation at the head of the Indian ocean; and (v) the role played by the Himalayan Mountain system as a climate divide or barrier, protecting the subcontinent from extreme cold winds of central Asia. The climatic conditions in the continental north are different from those in the south. The climatic conditions of the coasts are different from the interior, even of west coast from east coast. The climate of the great northern plain is different from the snowy Himalaya. These major contrasts are of great advantage to engage tourists in a variety of activities during their stay in the country. This diversity and the phenomena associated with it are strong enough the attract visitors. The in coming tourist can choose to stay in any type of climatic region and enjoy the changing states of weather while moving about from one place to another throughout the year. Larger is their diversity; greater is the potential of climatic conditions to develop tourism. Seasonal distribution of the intensity and duration of high or low temperatures, rainfall or snow; sleet or hail, amount of cloud cover in various seasons are important to note before investing for the promotion of tourism. A general attractiveness of the climate gives an idea of its resource value to determine the nature and duration of particular tourist activities.
LANDSCAPE RESOURCES
Geology and the landform are two other major bases of landscape resources. A growing interest in them has given rise to the term ‘geological tourism’. Both along with the climate determine the rocky peaks for climbing, cliffs or scarps for hang gliding, very steep snowy slopes for skiing and caves for exploiting them for a serious sightseeing. To a large extent, rock formation exposed in areas like Deccan plateau or Ladakh attract more for trekking. Quiet rural landscape appeals for experiencing a non-urban way of life for a period. High quality rural countryside is an attraction for cycling on branch or canal -side roads, horse riding or walking through its greenery. Water bodies or water points are a part of the landscape. Riversides, gorges, waterfalls, springs including hot water and mineral springs provide spectacular views to the tourists. Luckily. Plateaus and plains are considered less scenic because of their flat terrain. But flat lands close to beaches and the sea are prized for construction of buildings for accommodating tourists. Inland water attracts many to lakes, reservoirs, rivers, canals or waterfalls and the use of flat lands along them is also valued. Wild landscape in mountains and rocky areas of high relative relief becomes far more attractive. Forest landscape irrespective of topography is, however, found to be equally attractive. It is for this reason that the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources has earmarked protected landscapes in National Parks, Biosphere Reserves etc., as not to be exploited in any form other than tourism. Seeing wildlife in its natural habitat than in a zoo or a safari park is termed as Nature Tourism these days. Vegetation in Wilderness and the animals that depend upon it constitute another important element of tourist landscape. Though forests are the major areas which preserve biological diversity, the grasslands, agricultural areas, wetlands, wastelands, deserts, fresh and salt water lakes also provide protection to it.
SEASCAPE TOURIST RESOURCES
Coastal waters of mainland and of islands are another source of tourist attraction. Sandy beaches, coves, spits and lagoons, reefs and seaside cliffs are tourist’s hot spots. These are visited for sunbaths, swimming, boating and surfing. These recreations are possible where the waves are gentle and tidal currents are not dangerous. As a matter of fact, the modification and improvement of beaches can alone keep them attractive for the tourists. For an example, if strong off-shore currents are not controlled by some means, these are likely to sweep away the swimmer as well as the small inflatable boats out to the sea. Tourists generally select those beaches which not only provide shelter from the high tides and the winds but also the privacy for the users. For anglers and the divers, clean and unpolluted water abounding in marine life is the primary need. The materials, i.e. sand, mud or shingle forming the beach, the nature and the size of waves, tides and currents, shape and the stability of the beach and the coast are all equally important. Even the character of land above high-water mark is taken into account before investing for beach tourism. A shingle beach is dominant in high latitudes and more of muddy ones are found near the equatorial waters. These two are far less attractive for tourism. On the other hand, the coral beaches in warm and clear shallow waters, as along the tropical Lakshadweep Sea and most of our own sandy beaches are rated high. India has a few well developed such beaches which are popular among the tourists.
HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES
The wealth of these resources is found in artificially created landscapes. This component of India’s tourist resources is widespread almost in every part of the country. These are associated with some historical, religious or a cultural event. During the course of a very long history of India, different people and different religions have left a mark in the concrete forms. They comprise statues, shrines, tombs, minarets, forts, palaces, ancient monuments or recent buildings created by our people. These are known for their architecture or the plans of cities now lying in ruins. Above all, the performing arts (music, drama and dance), traditions and customs, costumes, cuisine, languages, social habits, religious rites and festivals are expression of culture. The industrial and planned cities, scientific installations, river dams and other modern structures created in independent India, are the attractions added to India’s heritage. Greater the variety of tourist resources and their easy accessibility by well-connected transport network, more are the chances of the development of tourism resource potential.
TYPOLOGY AND NATURE OF TOURISM RESOURCE
Tourism constitutes an activity which is developed in different ways in each region mainly because of the diversity of characteristics of each place. Moreover, each place attracts different type of tourists because of the differences recognised between the motives and the characteristics of the journey. Typology constitutes a very important tool for tourism planning as it supports the recognition of its spatial effects, demonstrates the way, the extent and the intensity of growth, contributes in the process of rational planning and in the adoption of effective tourism policy. Thus, it contributes in all of tourism planning stages, in the analysis of the existing situation, the recognition of positive and negative effects of tourism in the place of reception, in the creation and selection of alternative scenarios for tourism growth and in the specialization of policy per type of tourism growth. Two categories of typologies are distinguished: those where the interest is focused either on (a) the characteristics of tourist demand or (b) the destination’s characteristics. The first one focuses on the motives and the characteristics of the travel made by the tourist and it includes criteria like psychological, economic, social etc factors. In the second category typologies have to do with destination areas and their main criteria are geographic, economically, demographically etc.
There are multiple profits from the creation and use of typologies because they mainly allow the recognition of important dimensions of this activity. More specifically the classification analysis helps in the recognition of
• different types of tourism
• different types of tourists
• different travel motivations
• the effects of tourism in destination areas according to the motives and the type of travel
Based on these thoughts tourism typologies can be divided as:
Demand typologies
Demand typologies are divided on the basis of the market function in the tourism industry depending on the buying behaviour of the travellers. Many of those typologies have been proposed to sub-divide tourists into homogenous groups. Main aim of those typologies is targeting and positioning alternative strategies, marketing operations, destination selection, pricing etc. The criteria that can be used separately or in combination are different depending on demographic criteria such as age, family characteristics b) tourist’s predisposition such as benefits sought. Demand typologies are based on the physiographic Charteristics of the travelers. Some of the major Demand typologies based on tourist’s behavior are as: (CHECK PPT)
SUPPLY TYPOLOGY
Supply typologies mainly have to do with the characteristics of the destination area. Those typologies serve the useful purpose of highlighting the fact that different processes of development can and do occur. Supply typologies can show the shape, the form and the extent of tourism development in an area. These typologies can show basic differences of development between destinations as well as the different character of each destination. According to Lew (1987) there are three methods in order to create a supply typology: the
ideographic, the organizational and the cognitive one. The first one and perhaps the most important focuses on the concrete uniqueness of the environment and as such stress differences between nature oriented and human-oriented attractions. Typologies based of organizational perspectives focus on the spatial characteristics of size, scale and carrying capacity. Finally, cognitive approaches stress typologies relating to tourist perceptions and experiences. Tourism is developed in different ways in space. Development is depended upon the spatial characteristics of the destination place. For example, the development of tourism in coastal areas differs from the development of tourism in mountainous or urban areas or in small island destinations. Tourism development therefore is very sensible and close attached to the characteristics of the area it exists and it is developed.
UNIT 2
LIVING AND PERFORMING ART OF INDIA
Music styles of India
There are two main schools of Indian classical music: the Hindustani style of the North and the Karnatak (also spelled Karnatak and Karanatic) of the South. The Hindustani style features a number of Turko-Persian musical elements not found in the more varied and, in some ways, complex Karnatak style. Well-known Hindustani styles include Dhrupad, Dhamar, Khayal, Tappa and Thumri.
Hindustani Music
Hindustani Music is the term used to describe the music of northern India, which is regarded by many people as true Indian music. Influenced by music from Persia and Central Asia, it also refers to vocal styles mentioned below: dhrupad, khyal, dadra and thumri. Music from the north can be divided into two types: 1) classical and 2) light classical (also referred to as semi-classical). The classical form requires stricter adherence to the raga formula while light classical allows more opportunities for deviations and does not require the intense concentration that classical Indian music requires. Light classical music is defined as a style of music that follows the rules of raag and taal but adheres to them less strictly than with classical music. The alaap is usually very short or doesn't exist and the melodies are often derived from popular folk music and are rendered in medium ( madhya kaal) or fast ( teevra gati) tempo. Types of light classical music include jugalbandi, an instrumental duet. Dadra, thumri, ghazal and qawwali refer to light classical singing styles as well as music styles.
Karnatak
Karnatak (also spelled Karnatak and Karanatic) is the classical music of southern India. It is similar to Hindustani classical music except it is freer and has a more positive and upbeat mood that reflects a lack of influence of music from Persia and Central Asia and the fact it has remained close to its Hindu origins. Purandara Dasa is regarded as the Father of Karnatak music. The structure of Karnatak is similar to that of Hindustani music. Both have ragas (in Karnatak they are called ragams) but the rhythms, musical instruments and melodies used in Karnatak are different from those used in Hindustani. With Karnatak music there is more emphasis on vocal music and the music itself is freer, more complex and more open to improvisation. The thaalam (the equivalent of the taal) is especially rich and complex. During concerts you will often see people in the audience “keeping the tala,” marking the time cycle with hand and finger counts. Compared to Hindustani music, music from southern India features shorter pieces without the long, slow tempo phases. Even though it is less well known in the West it arguably is more accessible to Western ears. Spirituality and devotion are key to understanding Karnatak music.
A typical Karnatak classical vocal performance begins with a varnum (a composition with three parts: pallavi, anupallavu and chittaswaram), dedicated to Ganesh, followed by one or two short tempo-building kriti, which in turn are followed by an alppana (the Karnatak equivalent of the alaap) and thaalam (the equivalent of a jor) The singer sings without words, concentrating on the notes of the raga, improvising within its structure. A performance might end with a light classical piece such as a ragamalika, bhajan or thirupugazh.
Music from Jammu and Kashmir
In the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, music and dance has extremely aged roots. These old basis can be seen in several antique historical books such in Rajtarangini which was printed by a prince known as Kalhana and he wrote it in 12th century AD. The traditional music of Jammu and Kashmir is supposed to be prejudiced from Central Asia. From Central Asia, Kashmiris have accepted various musical instruments. Music and Sufiana Kalam are particularly accredited to Iran. Kashmiri is entirely dissimilar from the music played in rest of India.
Music of Maharajahs
The music in Jammu and Kashmir was fostered by its citizens. The most accepted melodious instruments are rabab, santoor, nagara, sitar and tumbakhnar. Harmonium or Santoor is played widely by the musicians and it is convoyed by dehar (troupe). The musicians sit in a semi circle form whereas the audiences assemble in front of them. Tumbakhnar is the merely and most admired tool that is performed by women in marriage parties. In Kashmir if anyone contributes in marriage ceremony then they will discover women singing tumbakhnar along with beats. This Tumbahnar music is much similar to dolak. In Kashmir Sufiana Music is admired among the Kashmiri mystics because they consider it as the essence of Kashmiri music.
Kashmiri Music
Kashmir music replicates the wealthy melodic heritage and enlightening inheritance of the state. Moreover this state is blessed with surplus of superb performing arts. These are evident in form of expressive dramas and dance, enthralling folk musical songs and exclusive dance steps. Jammu and Kashmir music reflects the varied district culture along with enriched and enchanting folk traditions of the antique times. Unaltered and Unaffected by quick industrialization and altering contemporary times, Jammu and Kashmir’s traditional folk music abides ruins to the wealthy enriching heritage. The tradition and history of dance and music in Kashmir valley goes reverse to thousands years. There are few chief forms of the customary Kashmiri music along with several Kashmiri folk songs and they are as follows:-
Chakri
This music form is executed with the assist of Sarangi, Garaha and Rabab. Chakri has incorporated harmonium in their presentation. This music form is one of the most admired forms of Kashmir tradition. Moreover this music form depicts the melodic custom of folk music and this has been developed in the Kashmir valley. Chakri really upholds the tradition of ethnicity and arts in the position. The Kashmiri people are quite trendy for outstanding a multi intellectual past and thus this music form brings an excellent conclusion of musical record of the valley.
The musical accompaniments some instruments such as Garaha, Rabab and Sarangi. The folk inhabitants of Kashmir perform this music form. Furthermore Chakri is measured unfinished without the appropriate hold of melodic instruments. As this Chakri holds historical relevance but still today it has gone through few minor deviations. The fundamental flavor and theme of Chakri is still unbroken and therefore it shows the fervor of Jammu and Kashmir traditions aficionados. Jammu and Kashmir has been lined by numerous dynasties since from antique ages. From Mughal Empires to Hindu Kings, this state has stayed a critical ruling land. Although the sovereignty period of those powerful Kings have ruined lengthy back, yet the proofs have continued on Jammu and Kashmir land in the figure of enriching burlesque. Chakri is a genuine sign of that extremely spirit and of creative genre which once thrived amidst the green valleys. Tourists who visit from diverse parts of world, explores the unbelievably thrilled magnificence’s of it. They often get enthralled by the harmonious atmosphere which is shaped by Chakri.
Ladishah
Ladishah music is the most significant music and it widely played in parts of Kashmir. Moreover this music form is even known for it’s ironically form of singing. The songs that are sung in it basically resonates the political conditions. From village to village, the singers travel and perform it. Furthermore this music form is played during the reaping period. The songs in this music form are composed on the mark and they are related on issues of village, be it social, cultural or political.
Sufiana Music
Sufi Music or Sufians musiqui owes straightforwardly to Kashmiri introduction. In Kashmir valley, Sufiana music enthralls its spectators. With the channel of moment, this music form added a numeral of Indian ragas. The Kashmiri melody of Sufiana type is also extremely harmonious. This music utilizes Sitar, Kashmiri Saz, Santoor, Sitar, Tabla and Wasool. The dance type of Hafiz Nagma is performed and is must watch when Sufiana music is performed.
Bazam-e-Sufiana was a blend of meditation, prayer and message of peace. It has roots in Kashmir and people believe that this movement started from Kashmir and spread all over the subcontinent. The Sufism seeds in Kashmir were propagated in 1320 AD. This seeds were sown by great Hazarat Bulbulshah. Also other grand saints passed it onward and then the position was executed by Sufi saints such as Lal Ded and Hazarat Sheikh-ul-Alam.
Hafiz Nagma
Hafiz Nagma is a part of Sufiana classical Music. This music form makes utilize of Santoor which is a hundred stringed tools and is played with help of sticks. A female dancer is attended by a number of males when this music form is played with instruments
Song of Habba Khatoon
The princess of Kashmir was Habba Khatoon. This song reveals her feelings at the occasion when she was alienated from the King Yusuf.
Modern Kashmir Songs
Nowadays Kashmir Music has altered to newest Rap, Rock and even Disco formats but still it holds the conventional Flavor and vividness.
Kashmir Santoor Music
The Kashmiri Santoor Music shows the wealthy melodic tradition and conventional culture. It is a classical form of music and is played widely in Jammu and Kashmir. The Kashmiri Santoor melodious compositions enthrall and enchant the viewers with its appealing songs.
Jammu And Kashmir State has a stunning performing art which is known as Kashmiri Santoor Music. This music depicts the exclusive harmonious traditions of the region. The conventional melodious instrument that is Santoor is typically manufactured from walnut. Additionally this Kashmiri Santoor has rectangular shape and even it resides abundant strings which are attached to the melodic instrument. The charming tune of the Santoor which is a traditional instrument fills the spectators with an extreme intellect of enjoyment and contentment. In addition it is performed and played on special celebratory occasions. Santoor which is Kashmiri instrument play such kind of music that displays the artistic leaning of the native local population.
Although this music form has glorious antique era but still the classical and professional singers and musicians has gained recognition in the international stadium as well. Moreover it has places an important division of the edifying past of magnificent antique times. Even the singers and composers of Santoor Kashmiri music perform it with complete devotion. The captivating harmonious note of Santoor Kashmiri music provides the spectators a release from strains and stress of daily ordinary life. The stunning symphonies of Santoor Kashmiri music depict the potentialities of the choirs of the state.
Classical
Hindus are chiefly prejudiced by classical Indian music therefore this music form is executed by them. In this music form they make use of instruments such as Sitar. A famous Sangeet Ratnakara was written by Sarangadeva who was a Kashmiri. The melodic instruments are discovered and stated in the initial texts like the Rajatarangini and Nilmatapurana by Kalhana. According to the Kashmiri fact, Abhinavagupta who was the great philosopher has printed an explanation which is known as Abhinavabharati. This is based on Bharata's Natyashatra shows and it was written in order to give it importance. The most admired folk tool is Santoor which has hundred strings and it is a percussion instrument. This instrument is played by Goddess Sharada. This Goddess is regarded as the goddess of learning and art in ancient Kashmir.
Chakri is one of the most popular types of traditional music played in Jammu & Kashmir. Chakri is a responsorial song form with instrumental parts, and it is played with instruments like the harmonium, the rubab, the sarangi, the nout, the geger and the chimta. It is performed in folk and religious spheres, by the Muslim and Hindu Kashmiris. Chakri was also used to tell stories like fairy tales or famous love stories. Soofiyna Moosaqi is traditional form of Kashmiri choral music performed by four to five musicians playing traditional Kashmiri musical instruments such as the saze kashmore (a violin-like instrument), the stringed santoor zither, sarang (bowed viol), surnai oboe the Kashmiri sitar and a percussion from loud dhol drums and more subtle dhorkas, a double headed drum made from a hollow tree trunk.
Important Fairs and Festivals of India.
Diwali : Diwali, the most prominent Hindu festival of India, is celebrated with a lot of pomp and show. During this festival of lights, houses are decorated with clay lamps, candles, and Ashok leaves. People wear new clothes, participate in family puja, burst crackers, and share sweets with friends, families, and neighbors. The festival marks the return of Lord Rama, along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, after a long exile of 14 years. Homes decorated with fancy lights, candles and clay lamps, bustling shops and markets, and fireworks and crackers.the darkest new moon night of Kartik month of the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which corresponds to mid-October – mid-November as per the Gregorian Calendar.
Holi : Also known as the festival of colors, holi is one of the famous festivals of India, celebrated with a lot of fervor across the country. On the eve of Holi, people make huge Holika bonfires and sing and dance around it. On the day of Holi, people gather in open areas and apply dry and wet colors of multiple hues to each other, with some carrying water guns and colored water filled balloons. t signifies the victory of good (Prince Prahlad) over evil (Holika) and the arrival of spring. Full moon (Purnima) of the Phalgun month of the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which corresponds to the month of March of the Gregorian calendar. Almost all over the country; most vibrant celebrations can be seen in North Indian states.
Dusshera: Dussehra, also referred to as Vijayadashami, is also among the most famous festivals of India. It is celebrated in different forms countrywide. Ramlila(enactment of scenes from Ramayana) is held everywhere for 10 days. It’s culminated with “Ravan Dahan” – the burning of huge effigies of Ravana, Meghnath and kumbhakaran which is a real spectacle to see. It celebrates the death of the demon king Ravana at the hands of Lord Rama. Hustle bustle of the decorated markets, Ram-leela acts, and the big event of the burning of effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhakaran. 10th day of the month of Ashwin according to the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which corresponds to September or October of the Gregorian calendar .
Navratri: Navratri festival is celebrated by all people throughout India in different ways. In Gujarat, it is a nine day celebration of rejuvenating Garba nights and highly energetic Dandiya Raas dances. People are dressed in beautiful, colorful traditional clothes and the environment is very youthful and invigorating. It represents the celebration of the Goddess Amba (Power) in nine different forms. The 9 days of dance festivities in Gujarat, the exquisite Chaniya Choli’s (traditional skirt & blouse), and the Gujarati cuisine – Sabudana Khichdi, Mandavi Paak, Singoda ki Kheer, and Potato Wafers. The first nine days of the month of Ashwin according to the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which correspond to September or October of the Gregorian calendar
Gurupurab: On the most important Sikh festival of India, special assemblies on the lives and teachings of the gurus, and langars (community meals) are organized in the gurudwaras. Karah Prasad is distributed among all, and hymn chanting processions are held in the city. People light up their homes with lamps and candles and burst crackers to celebrate Gurpurab. It is the celebration of the anniversaries of the ten Sikh Gurus. The full moon day in the month of Kartik of the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which corresponds to November of the Gregorian calendar.
Eid-Ul-Fitr: Eid is one of the major festivals of India for the Muslim community. People dress up in fineries, attend a special community prayer in the morning, visit friends, and relatives and exchange sweets. Children are given idi(money or gift) by elders. he beautifully decked up markets and mosques, the morning Eid namaz at the mosques, and the sweet dishes. On the 1st day of the month of Shawwal of the lunar Hijri calendar, which corresponds to July of the Gregorian calendar.
Hemis : Hemis, the two-day religious festival from Ladakh, is one of the important festivals of India. It attracts a lot of locals and foreign tourists each year. The festivities include the Cham dance done by the priests to the tune of the traditional music of cymbals, drums, trumpets played by the monks. The dancing priests dress up in elaborate brocade outfits and masks. It’s the celebration of the birth anniversary of spiritual leader Padmasambhava, founder of Tibet Tantric Buddhism. 10th day (called Tse-Chu in the local language) of the Tibetan lunar month, which corresponds to June or July of the Gregorian calendar
Christmas : One of the most famous and awaited festival in the world, Christmas happens to be of sheer significance for elders and children alike. Everyone regardless of their religion wait for this day, children specifically for the surprise gifts from Santa. All the churches are lit up and decorated to celebrate the birth of Lord Jesus. Christmas tree decoration, prayers, birth of Lord Jesus and Santa Claus 25th December. The festival is celebrated across India. The best places to celebrate Christmas in India are Goa, Pondicherry, and Kerala.
UNIT 3
FAIRS AND FESTIVALS OF INDIA
Fairs of India
Kumbh Mela :- Kumbh Mela or Kumbha Mela is a mass Hindu pilgrimage of faith in which Hindus gather to bathe in a sacred or holy river. Traditionally, four fairs are widely recognized as the Kumbh Melas: the Haridwar Kumbh Mela, the Allahabad Kumbh Mela, the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha, and Ujjain Simhastha. These four fairs are held periodically at one of the following places by rotation: Haridwar, Allahabad (Prayaga), Nashikdistrict (Nashik and Trimbak), and Ujjain. The main festival site is located on the banks of a river: the Ganges (Ganga) at Haridwar; the confluence (Sangam) of the Ganges and the Yamuna and the invisible Sarasvati at Allahabad; the Godavari at Nashik; and the Shipra at Ujjain. Bathing in these rivers is thought to cleanse a person of all sins At any given place, the Kumbh Mela is held once in 12 years. There is a difference of around 3 years between the Kumbh Melas at Haridwar and Nashik; the fairs at Nashik and Ujjain are celebrated in the same year or one year apart. The exact date is determined according to a combination of zodiac positions of the Jupiter, the Sun and the Moon. The exact age of the festival is uncertain. According to medieval Hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu dropped drops of Amrita (the drink of immortality) at four places, while transporting it in a kumbha (pot).
The Pushkar Fair: The Pushkar Fair (Pushkar Camel Fair) or locally Pushkar ka Mela is an annual five-day camel and livestock fair held in the town of Pushkar in the state of Rajasthan, India. It is one of the world's largest camel fairs. Apart from the buying and selling of livestock, it has become an important tourist attraction. Competitions such as the "matka phod", "longest moustache", and "bridal competition" are the main draws for this fair which attracts thousands of tourists. Thousands of people go to the banks of the Pushkar Lake where the fair takes place. Men buy and sell their livestock, which includes camels, cows, sheep and goats. t is celebrated for five days from the Kartik ekadashi to Kartik Poornima, the full moon day (the 15th) of Kartik (October–November) in Hindu calendar. The full moon day is the main day and the day, according to legend, when the Hindu god Brahma sprung up the Pushkar Lake, thus numerous people swim in its sacred waters.
SurajKund Crafts Mela : The Surajkund Mela is unique as it showcases the richness and diversity of the handicrafts, handlooms and cultural fabric of India, & is the largest crafts fair in the world. he Mela is organized by the Surajkund Mela Authority & Haryana Tourism in collaboration with Union Ministries of Tourism, Textiles, Culture and External Affairs. For the 31thSurajkund International Crafts Mela-2017, the state of Jharkhand has been chosen to be the Theme State. At least 20 countries & all the states of India will be participating in the Mela. A large number of renowned national and international folk artistes and cultural groups present day performances at both the Chaupals, the open-air theatres, located in the Mela premises. Also enthralling cultural evening programmes are held at the main Chaupal during each of the Mela evening. The Mela is indeed a custodian of the heritage crafts involving use of traditional skills that are fading away due to cheap machine made imitations, and a special section is earmarked for showcasing of these heritage crafts.The multi-cuisine Food Court provides ethnic cuisines from all over the world, which are immensely popular with visitors. There are designated places for amusement, adventure sports and joy rides to make it a must visit event for the young. he Mela celebrates the unique diversity of Indian traditions and culture in a ambience, created to represent the ethos of rural India. Surajkund International Crafts Mela showcases some of the most exquisite handlooms and handicrafts of India. Handmade fabrics soaked in ethnic colours make an eye catching display for the visitors.
HemisFestival,Ladakh
The colourful Hemis Festival is one of the biggest and the most famous religious festivals in Ladakh. The enchanting festival in the land of dreams is celebrated on the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava or commonly known as Guru Rimpoche. The Hemis Monastery is where the festival is celebrated. The monastery is itself a blissful place, surrounded by brown austere hills and bright yellow mustard fields. Its execution through the splendid masked dances by the Lamas is what takes your breath away.
International Kite Festival, Gujarat
Most of the festivals have some cultural, religious or historical significance. The kite festival is marked as a sign for farmers that the sun is back and harvest season, locally called Makar Sankranti, is approaching and that the winter season is over! The kite lovers assemble with their handmade kites and makes for an extraordinary kite flying day. Finally the best kite is chosen and titled as the best in the world. Try your hand at this quintessential Indian sport of kite flying.
DesertFestival,Jaisalmer
It’s an ultimate exotic Indian desert festival. The three days’ festival showcases the extravaganza of dances, music, handicraft fairs and some the very interesting competitions like Mr. Desert, Turban tying, and best moustache. Apart from cultural performances, games like camel polo, camel rides, camel race and even camel tug-of-war are played. With the backdrop of the golden Jaisalmer fort, the place looks mesmerising during the festival.
SunburnFestival,Goa
Grandest party for the youngsters from all over India and abroad, undoubtedly the largest beach party in the country. Sunburn is like adding glamour to the Indian nightlife. With the music performances going on for hours into the night, partying is the only karma of anyone at Sunburn. And it’s Goa, the best place to live the fun, hippie life. While you are here, take the opportunity to explore the gorgeous Goa beaches. You have days just to party, shop, groove to music, try new water sports and of course try the delicious Goan food.
https://youtu.be/O92RJ9d4m8Q
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