Draft:Mer Raas
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| Native name | મણિયારો રાસ |
|---|---|
| Genre | Raas |
| Origin | Saurashtra, Gujarat, India |
| Related dances | Dandiya Raas, Garba |
Mer Raas (also known as Maniyaro Raas or Mer Dandiya Raas) is a traditional form of Raas associated with the Mer community of Saurashtra, particularly the Porbandar district of Gujarat, India.[1][2]
The dance is traditionally performed with dandiya sticks and is known for its vigorous movements and martial character. Accounts of the dance describe the sticks being handled in ways that resemble the movements of weapons, reflecting the historical association of the Mer community with martial traditions.[3][2]
Performance
[edit]Mer Raas is particularly associated with the Porbandar region and the Mer settlements of the Barda and Ghed areas. Performances are held during Navratri and other religious and social occasions. Contemporary performances may involve men, women and children, with traditional dress forming part of the presentation.[4][5]
The dance is also known for the use of gulal during some performances. Historical accounts associate Mer Raas with the community's collective gatherings, while modern performances have become part of public cultural celebrations in Porbandar and elsewhere in Gujarat.[1][6]
In 2022, a Mer community Navratri programme in Porbandar featured Maniyaro Raas as part of an effort to preserve the community's traditional dance. The dance has also continued to feature in cultural programmes and public celebrations in the region.[4][5]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- 1 2 Sharma, Manorma (2007). Musical Heritage of India. APH Publishing. p. 60. ISBN 978-81-313-0046-6.
- 1 2 "From seated Betha to martial Raas: A look at the diversity of Garba across Gujarati communities". The Indian Express. Retrieved 19 September 2026.
- ↑ "The many folk flavours of Gujarat". Deccan Herald. 10 December 2016. Retrieved 19 September 2026.
- 1 2 "Porbandar: મેર સમાજના પુરૂષો રમે છે પરંપરાગત મણિયારો રાસ, શૌર્ય રાસ દ્વારા પરંપરાગત વારસો જાળવી રાખવાનો પ્રયાસ". TV9 Gujarati (in Gujarati). 1 October 2022. Retrieved 19 September 2026.
- 1 2 "Porbandar Meher youth play Maniyaro raas During Navratri". ABP Asmita (in Gujarati). 8 October 2024. Retrieved 19 September 2026.
- ↑ "Maniyaro Raas : Is a form of Garba full of energy and passion". Gujarat Mid-Day (in Gujarati). 2023. Retrieved 19 September 2026.