Gujarat at a Glance

Gujarat at a Glance

From Roots to WingsGujarat The Land of the Legends, stands bordered by Pakistan and Rajasthan in the north east, Madhya Pradesh in the east, and Maharashtra and the Union territories of Diu, Daman, Dadra and Nagar Haveli in the south. The Arabian Sea borders the state both to the west and the south west.

The State took its name from the Gujjars, who ruled the area during the 700s and 800s. Stone Age settlements around Sabarmati and Mahi rivers indicate the same time as that of the Indus Valley Civilization while Harappan centres are also found at Lothal, Rampur, Amri and other places.

Rock Inscriptions in the Girnar Hills show that the Maurya Emperor Ashoka, extended his domain into Gujarat in about 250 BC. With its fall, the control of the region came under the Sakas or Scythians. During the 900s the Solanki Dynasty came to power and Gujarat reached its greatest extent.

Then followed a long period of Muslim rule. Ahmed I, the first independent Muslim ruler of Gujarat, found Ahmedabad in 1411. The Mughal Emperor Akbar conquered Malwa and Gujarat in 1570s.

The British East India Company set its first footsteps in Surat in 1818 and the State came in control of their rule. In 1600s, the Dutch, French, English and Portuguese had all established bases along the coast of the region.

Gujarat was divided into princely states. After the Indian Independence in 1947, all of Gujarat except Saurashtra and Kutchh became part of Bombay State until May 1, 1960, when the Government split Bombay state into the States of Maharashtra and Gujarat.

Ahmedabad became the chief city of the new State and housed the State Government Offices. They remained there until they were transferred to Gandhinagar in 1970.

Gujarat Fact File

Area:1,96,024 sq km

Population:60,383,628

Capital:Gandhinagar

Principal Language:Gujarati

Other Languages :English, Hindi and other Indian languages

Literacy Rate:79.31%

Rainfall :93.2 cm

Temperature:Summer: min 25 degrees to 45 digsWinter: min 15 degrees to max 35 digs

Season:November to February

Eco System:Ranges from deserts, scrublands, grasslands, deciduous forests, and wetlands to mangroves, coral reefs, estuaries, and gulfs.

Experience the aesthetic appeal with the Arts, Culture and Lifestyles in Gujarat. It earns the reputation of finer things in life as Arts reflects medium of expression and communication, culture reflects the finer details of moral and traditional values and Lifestyles is the very existence of Gujaratis, unmatched lifestyle living in the country.

In Gujarat, Arts is an expression. The brilliant blend of Arts, culture and Lifestyle make spaces for peace and soulful well being. In Gujarat, there is freedom for Artists as they create an image on a canvass or click a photograph that appeals to the eye. With ample mediums to work on innovative, witty and submissive forms, Arts present something to our sense perceptions as they make way to articulate lifestyles. Gujarat stand unique with Arts as a form of expression as it is a home to many world renowned Artists and flourishing talents shaping up the Art World. The State also has a fantastic pool of artists and a new breed of collectors and investors in the Art Talents.

In Gujarat, Music is speech of angels. The music and dance blend the rich traditions with its folk music and dance. The Garba dance is the spiritual expression of Gujarat and the spirit of festivity of the traditional festival reaches worldwide. Music and folk dances have evolved since ancient times and continues to lure people to its rich tradition even today as it retain its original form or even blend to modern forms. Folk songs, classical music and array of distinctive classical ragas have exemplary features with distinctive music variations. Gujarat is known to have produced its own folk instruments besides the vast contributions to classical and folk music. Also modern culture of pop thrive its existence with the youth catching faster on western and other music forms pertaining to other countries.

In Gujarat Crafts is an exclusive talent. Handicrafts of Gujarat, differs in its proportions of its patterns to the element of wonderful exquisite artifacts in various forms. Ancient crafts exist in Gujarat blend with unique traditional intricate work and finer details with artistic and aesthetic appeal. The handicrafts products of skilled craftsmanship are popular all over the world. It mirrors vibrant culture of the State.

In Gujarat, Traditions speak. Gujarat is a land of traditions. Festivity spirit continues all round the year as spirituality is in every breath of the Gujarati soul. Gujarat has fairs and festivals apart from many other rituals and traditions. Gujarat is also popular for the lifestyle and cuisines that go with the celebrations. Traditions almost remain unchanged and you get acquainted with the modern living as Gujarat develops on a faster growth to modernity, influenced by outside culture. Unmatched traditions in the world, it speaks of Home is where the heart is.

In Gujarat, Knowledge is Power. Literature is traced back to the bygone Sultanate era. Gujarati Literature stand as a mix of classics and contemporary Literature with its Prose, Poetry, Plays, Biography-Autobiographies, Fiction and non fiction. More, the State is sound with many Literature writers and poets with contributions of multi language Literature like English, Hindi and esp. Sanskrit Literature.

Enculturation and Culture: Gujarat is influenced with enculturation; a culture shared with members of the society and passed on from one generation to the next. Enculturation has unified people with common sense experience and influence that lead to knowledge and appreciation of cultural traditions and lifestyles. The aspect of joining hands to greet or bow down comes through age influences as offering reverence. Social systems of learning, religious practices and forms of artistic expressions have led way to more balanced lifestyles in Gujarat. People of Gujarat are found to be sharing cultural traits and patterns with other regions and also extend beyond national boundaries towards International culture.

In Gujarat, Lifestyles sustain. Gujarat is heaven on earth. Ask anyone in the world and Gujarat is the most cherished place to visit in India. Gujarat is the Land of the Legends where individuals have peace of mind, are spiritual and live in harmony. The people are enterprising oriented, cooperative, and supportive. They possess warm and friendly nature with qualities of humanity, Gujaratis are found to be most generous and loyal. It is said, Attitude and all is that Makes a Big Difference

Gujarat is a flourishing state with cultural diversity. It is vibrant with its true colors of rich heritage and cultural traditions. Dating back to history with the Harappan civilization, the state becomes a confluence of many religions Hinduism, Islam, Jainism and Buddhism. The Gujarati culture blends in arts, beliefs, customs, traditions, institutions, inventions, language, technology and values.

What language do the people speak?

What do the people of the society wear?

How do they prepare their food?

What kind of Dwellings do they live in?

What kind of work they do?

Faith and beliefs

Gujarat is influenced with enculturation; a culture shared with members of the society and passed on from one generation to the next. Enculturation has unified people with common sense experience and influence that lead to knowledge and appreciation of cultural traditions and lifestyles. The aspect of joining hands to greet or bow down comes through age influences as offering reverence.

Social systems of learning, religious practices and forms of artistic expressions have led way to more balanced lifestyles in Gujarat. People of Gujarat are found to be sharing cultural traits and patterns with other regions and also extend beyond national boundaries towards International culture.

As Gujarat stands as Heart of India, Multiculturalism is traced in Gujarat. Shared cultural background making people feel to home ground and more comfortable with other people from their own culture. Culture shock unlike other countries is therefore, a missing point which makes people more confident and energetic as they stand for a challenge in global scenario.

Originally known as Gurjars, Gujaratis are influenced by the waves from the past that inherit values of arts, culture and traditions. Gujarat has a strong cultural influence of socio-economic-political history. It has a special significance in Indian Political History as it is a birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi and the main influence to the people of Gujarat with his system of non violence movement.

Festivals and fairs, arts and crafts, folk dances, music, cuisine and lifestyles form a major cultural background of the people who belong to Gujarat. The customs and beliefs make the culture more homely and truly blended with values and moral characteristics.

LanguageThough the local language spoken is Gujarati it remains a mother tongue for people of Gujarat and is widely spoken all over the world wherever a Gujarati exist. Surti, charotari, kathiawai and kutchi languages are among the many others languages like Marathi, Sindhi, Punjabi etc. are spoken in Gujarat regions.

CostumesFor costumes, several outfits are worn by the people of Gujarat as per the living in rural or urban areas. Generally, men wear trousers and shirts or t-shirts and younger women wear normal western outfits like skirts, dresses, jeans, etc. Older women usually wear saris or salwar kamiz. In rural parts, people are found to wear dhotis and kurtas or bandis. Even traditional outfits like chania choli by women and kedia dress is worn by men in rural areas or during cultural festivals.

FoodMajority of the Gujaratis are Vegetarian. A traditional Gujarati Thali consisting of dal (lentils), roti, rice and vegetables apart from salads, farsan and sweet dish followed by chaas, forms the morning meal. Evening food consist of bhakri-shak or khichdi kadhi. Mainly, the diet of the people of Gujarat consists of cereals, pulses, green vegetables, fruits, milk, ghee, butter-milk, etc. A variety of Cuisine sub-ordinates like pickles, chutney, papad, yoghurt, etc serve as fillings on main menu. A variety of dishes are prepared by Gujarati women who also add spice to kitchen with eateries from other regions like the South Indian food, Continental, Chinese cuisines, etc.

HomesGujarati urban living offer sophisticated living lifestyles. Well ventilated, furnished, glazed tiled or marbled homes and flats are found in Gujarat. Modern living with landscape gardening and fountains is the new flavor home stay in big cities of the state. Rural living is flourishing with development. However, the traditional hut dwellings and wooden houses still exist with a rich heritage feel and ethnic living. Wood carved houses with the Chabutras for bird feeding are the beauty of many traditional homes in Gujarat.

Work CultureMajority of the Gujarati thrive as Business persons. However, Gujarat is a leading Industrial State that ranks its commercial capital and textile city Ahmedabad as 7th in India. It possesses highest number of operating airports, the Gujarat cities are connected worldwide. Many business opportunities see way to development with the Vibrant Gujarat in various sectors as:

Faith and BeliefsGujarat has major multicultural religious faith system with the inception of all-embracing religious faith ranging from caste to caste. The major religions followed are Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism. Groups like Bohras and Moresalaam garasias, Kutchis who had been converted to Islam still have eqaunimous way of life of a typical Gujarati. Sunni Muslims are second largest group ,followed By Jains,Parsis of Iranian descent of south Gujarat and Christians. People of Gujarat are god fearing, friendly and good natured. They live in harmony and respect each others faith and beliefs. Gujaratis are often found to mingle and enjoy all religious festivals with no caste or creed differences.

Gujarat experiences an aesthetic experience where the work of art results with the formal interest and commemorative interest making way together. Completely appealing and valuable, works of art in Gujarat differ widely in the proportions of its patterns to the element of Painting, Sculpture or any other blend with beauty and usefulness. Arts present something to our sense perceptions as they make way to articulate lifestyles. Gujarat stands unique with its verbal or nonverbal arts a mixed combination with aesthetic appeal. It is famous for its dyeing, printing, bead and mirror work apart from traditional Bandhinis and Patolas which has a hand woven art for the traditional wear.

The arts and crafts have a rich cultural past and linked to the present modernity look. One can find diverse variety of Embroidery with Inheriting talent with a distinctive style of needlework and traditional arts. Wood carving, stone work, jewellery etc. are the other areas that make Gujarat, a classic hub of traditional arts and crafts.

In paintings, Oil, glass painting, kalamkari art form and Pethora, the tribal ritual paintings leave intricate frescos and the finesse with which the form comes alive with colors.

It is a watermark of Gujarati art styles. Paintings of decorative motifs on terracotta pots and clay made items are also very popular in the state of Gujarat.

The State also has a fantastic pool of artists, and a new breed of collectors and investors. The Painters and Photography artists are flourishing in Gujarat who are connected worldwide with their exhibitions and display of talent. The Academy of the Department provides opportunities for Group Exhibitions and show case talents at various places in Gujarat cities.

Government of Gujarat Undertaking: Gurjari and Garavi

Gurjari (Gujarat State Handicraft Development Corporation Ltd.)

Garvi (Gujarat State Handloom Development Corporation Ltd.)

The main objective is to identify, revive, development of handicrafts and handlooms of Gujarat. It has enhanced product base to deliver to cater to the needs of both the domestic and international markets. They are creating opportunities and set to open International Foreign markets for the artisans who create patolas, bandhnis, several types of leather products and are engaged in hand-block printing, terracotta, embroidery and weaving work.

Gujarat is quite famous and well known for its dynamic traditions of classical and folk music. They are the heart and soul of Gujarat. The traditional culture of Gujaratis with their traditional music and dance form of Garba, Garbi, Raas and other are well known and finds attraction to tourists. Raas and Garba dance forms are said to have been passed on by Lord Krishna, who spent his childhood at Gokul while he played the flute.

Folk songs, classical music and an array of distinctive classical ragas have exemplary features with distinctive music variations.

A special variety of music which can be classified as temple-music was indeed produced by the Vaishnava cult in Gujarat. Communities like Charans and Gadhavis are some communities whose hereditary profession is folk music and arts have indeed done a great deal to preserve the tradition of the folk music of Gujarat in its pure form itself.The different types of folk songs in Gujarat include lullabies, nuptial songs, festive songs and Rannade songs.

Gujarat is also known for having produced its own folk instruments besides the vast contributions to classical and folk music. It is indeed worth mentioning that wind instruments like Turi, Bungal, Pava and string instruments like Ravan Hattho, Ektaro, and Jantar, and percussion instruments like Manjira and Zanz pot drum are omnipresent in the folk sounds of Gujarat. Territorial names of Gujarat such as Gujaqri Todi, Bilaval (from Veraval), Sorathi, (from Sorath), Khambavati (from Khambhat, Cambay), Ahiri and Lati are the names borne by a number of ragas in the field of classical music. Thereby they are indeed quite noteworthy as they are very valuable gifts of Gujarat contributed to the classical music tradition of India.

Bhavai-Folk Drama

Dance

Garba and Raas

Hallisaka

Among the folk Music, Duha, Sorathaa, Chaand, Belaads, etc are traditionally performed especially in Saurashtra, Gujarat.

Bhajans and Haveli Sangeet are the religious music performed in Gujarat.

Factopedia

Maharaja Sayajirao Rao Gakewad who ruled Vadodara till 1947, was a patron of Indian Classical Music. He was pioneer for technical arts and music education in Central Gujarat since 1879. AD Ustad Moula Bux, founded the Academy of Indian Music under the patronage of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad. This Academy later became the Music College and is now the Faculty of Performing Arts of the Maharaja Sayajirao University (M S U) of Vadodara. The Department of Indian Classical Music (Vocal Tabla) is the biggest department of the Faculty previously known as Gayan Shala established in 1886 by The Maharaja of Baroda later Converted into The Department of Indian Classical Music (Vocal Tabla) as part of Faculty of Performing Arts.Great masters of vocal and instrumental music, such as Ustad Abdul Karim Khan, Ustad Hazrat Inayat Khan, Ustad Faiyaz Khan, Pandit Omkarnath Thakur and many others, adonrned the court of the Gaekwads in Baroda. It was during the reign of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad that the first all India Music Conference was held in 1914 in Baroda.

In Gujarat, Navratri Festival is celebrated with great religious fervor and appreciated all over the World. The tradition of Nine days of Singing and Dancing is a festival enjoyed by all communities, all age groups and at all Gujarat cities and towns. Gujaratis and other communities residing out of Gujarat, also celebrate this Festival. A blend of music and dance with rich traditional wear, fasting for nine days and dancing in various forms is the highlight of the festival. Music is from traditional singing to instrumental beats or fusion. The singing cater to prayer offerings to Maa Durga and related to Lord Krishna.

The modern stage and pop culture is the in-thing among the younger generation in Gujarat. Christmas and New Year celebrations are equally gaining popularity in Gujarat. Western music, Pop, Hip Hop and Jazz music apart from many other Indi Pop and Hip hop, Punjabi Bhangda and other music and dance is in thing among the Youth. As such, Gujarat cities, especially Ahmedabad is flooded with artists, who throng for the Music Live shows.

The culture and the traditions are both alive and being forever experimented in the State.

NeedleworkNeedlework of Gujarat is famous world over for its elegance and accuracy. Embroidery is Gujarat's quintessential handicraft and many of the artisans are wives of herdsmen, nomads and agriculturists battling for a second income. Ari bharat, appliqu work are unique with its traditional skills. Toran is the most common embroidered doorway decoration with hanging flaps, which is supposed to ventilate good luck. Pachhitpatis (embroidered frieze) are hanged from the corners as a welcome symbol to the visitors. Chaklas (embroidered square pieces) are used as furniture covers while Bhitiya is the impressive wall hanging. Abhala (mirror inset embroidery) has now become a part of the ethnic chic fashion world, where small mirror discs are fixed with closely worked silken thread. Usually the mirror work is done on a dark background with motifs like flowers, creepers, petals, etc. The motifs are inspired by daily life; ancient belief and rituals but they vary from place to place and are passed down over the centuries.

Tie and dye - Bandhani

The tie-dyed fabrics of Gujarat are the best produced in India and is demanded all over the world. Bandhani, (the tye and dye fabric) is famous for their intricate designs and patterns. Used as wedding outfits called as 'gharchola odhni' and sarees, they grace every Gujarati family women. The bandhinis are also brocaded and with fine thread zari work. Also known as 'Bandhej', it is produced on superfine cotton 'mulmul', muslin sometimes combined with gold checks and motifs worked in the 'jamdani' technique. Bandani of Jamnagar, Mandvi and Bhuj are famous all over the world.

Dyeing is a hereditary art. In the past cloth was dyed in colours extracted from trees and flowers. The Sarkhei suburb of Ahmedabad was one of the indigo manufacturing and exporting centres.

Bead work

Beadwork is another Gujarati specialty from Khambhat and Saurashtra. Motifs and patterns are dictated by the technique of putting two and three beads together. Beadwork objects are used in wall decorations, potholders, etc. The best beadwork is produced by the 'kathis' (tribals). Worked mostly on a white background they use colours that are vibrant with very distinct patterns. Beadwork 'torans' are usually placed over doorways.

Patola

One of the finest handwoven sarees from Gujarat. The famous Patola of Patan is known for its colorful geometrical pattern, which are strikingly beautiful. The unique tie and weave method of Patola results in identical patterns on both the sides of the fabric.

Jewellery

The art of making jewellery and precious stone-cutting and processing is a traditional handicraft of Gujarat. The folk jewellery of excellent designs, characteristic of each village and each community is a typical art of Gujarat. Gold, Silver, Iron and brass works are antiquity of Gujarat.

Furnishings

Gujarat offers a wide range of furnishings from simple and elegant cushion covers to quilts and bedcovers in a wide range of styles. Pleasantly embroidered and with micro mirrors, they have geometrical or animal motifs, patch worked, etc. Quilts are another popular handicraft item. They come in a variety of styles from simple geometric designs to more complex patterns. Other utility items like woven and Kalamkari table covers, tablemats and block printed bed land table linen. The traditional floorspread namdas and dhurries from Kutch, is woven with camel and goat hair and even wool and cotton.

Pottery

The oldest ancient craft and famous Pottery from Gujarat is popular as it achieve excellence with traditional crafts. Village potters turn wonders of clay into artifact pieces that attracts. Clay utensils are made which are used by village homes even today. Terracotta toys are another craft of the potters of Kachchh, but it is in the Aravallis and Chhota Udepur tribal lands that potters make the famous long necked terracotta figurines of the Gora Dev (tribal horse God), said to protect crops, villages and families from evil spirits, evil intentions and natural calamities. Potter communities also specialise in mud wall paintings, and you could get plaques, inset with mirrors, made for your own house or garden decor from Kutchh.

Woodwork

The lacquered furniture of Sankheda near Vadodara, another important handicraft industry has become synonymous with Southern Gujarat. The furniture and woodcrafts of Surat, Kutchh and Saurashtra are also popular. Minakari furniture from Rajkot, is as attractive as Sankheda furniture.

Woodcarving is an ancient art of the state, which has attained a very high standard of technical skill. Some of the best examples of woodcarvings are found in temples and houses in many parts of Gujarat. Saurashtra and Sanked in the Vadodara district are also known for their lacquer work.

Textile culture

Gujarat has a unique dress culture which evolves the Textile culture with its extravagant quality with traditional and modern design patterns. The Rogan, zari, Tye and die and exclusive Patolas are the states graceful textile culture patterns. Peacock motifs, geometrical patterns, ikat weaving, akrakh work are some of the excellent influence with traditional and modern designs.

Zari

The Zari industry of Surat is one of the oldest handicrafts whose origin can be traced to the Mughal period. The history of the 'zari' (gold embroidery) industry of Surat dates back to the Mughal period. Surat is one of the biggest and most significant Zari manufacturing centres in India.

The principal types of products are real gold and silver threads, imitation gold and silver threads, embroidery such as the 'Chalak', the 'Salama', the 'Kangari', the 'Tiki', mainly the Ring and the 'Katori' for modifying in the Kinkhab (cloth of gold) and the Zari border weaving, embroidery, laces, caps, turbans, saris, and blouse pieces. Gold and silver threads are commonly used for weaving the 'kinkhab'. The Gharchola and Panetar (dresses worn during weddings) are exceptional pieces with zari work.

Temple culture

The excavations at the Harappan sites in Gujarat at Lothal, Rangpur, Rozdi etc. have brought to light some of the very ancient handicraft articles. Temple curtains have Goddess Durga riding tiger a well as other illustrations from Puranic legends. It is heavily decorated and embroidered decoration hung over the entrance and is considered a symbol of warm welcome.

Literature

Literature gives order to human experience. It explores cultural values. Literature in Gujarat stands for its Literary tradition in the form of folk songs, narratives, theater and aphorisms. Traced back to the Sultanate period, the stories and messages evolved as they passed through generations, leaving behind versions of myth and legends.

The early Literary journey began in Gujarat way back during 11th Century when Trade and commerce influenced Hinduism and Jainism. Before Gujarati emerged in its own linguistic identity, the works were notably in Sanskrit and Prakrit Languages. Literature with Hemachandracharyas Grammar Book, Siddha Hema Shabdanushasan, came into existense during 1088-1072.

History of the Language could be divided into three periods :

10th or 11th Century A.D. to the 14th. This can be called Apabrahmsa or the Old Gujarati period

From 15th to 17th Century A.D. Medieval Gujarati Period

From 17th Century A.D. Modern Gujarati Period

Literature tradition in Gujarat is largely linked to the Bhakti Movement and as it swept across most of India during 12th and 17th Century, it began with the Poet Narsinh Mehta (1414-1481) Narsinh Mehta began the rise of Gujarati Literature and is referred as Father of Literature. He spent his life practicing and advocating selfless human compassion while facing immense opposition from his community during 1408-80.

About the 12th Century, even the teachings of Acharyas, Ramanujcharya and Madhavcharya-the great refuters of Shankarachayras philosophy, penetrated into Gujarat and influenced people. 1342-1800 was the period when many Jain Literaturetes influenced Gujarat with their writings which still remained hidden or possessed by individuals. During this period, Mirabai, the foremost woman poet, dedicated her life to the worship of Krishna and alongwith, a number of other saints-poets who wrote in praise of god, became composers and musicians.

In the period 1298-1420, when the Mohemeddan conquered Cambay, Anhilwad, Somnath, Junagadh, Idar and laid the foundation of Ahmedabad in 1412 A.D, the languages most in use were Sanskrit and Prakrit with Literature as entirely religious.

Akhyan a form of story telling through verse was popularized by Premanand (1636-1734). He also was Mannbhaat, a poet who sang to the accompaniment of music created by Copper pot struck with ringed fingers.

About the 12th Century, teachings of Acharyas, Ramanujcharya and Madhavcharya-the great refuters of Shankarachayras philosophy, penetrated into Gujarat and influenced people.

In 19th Century, it was Narmad, the Poet (1833-86) who pioneered prose and poetry through his work on social revolution. He promoted to adopt single national language and wrote about self government. He opposed religious orthodoxy and was a social fanatic. As a result, he published Dandiyo a newsletter to increase community awareness against British rule. He conveyed his ideas in new phrase forms while introducing western literary forms too.

The year 1886-1907 saw the Literature of Govardhanram Tripathi who was ignited of the Bhakti flame by Narsinh Mehta and Mirabai. He penned the novel Sarasvatichandra and depicted the complexities of the society and bring about social reforms. This became the most influential Literature piece in Gujarati.

Girdhar wrote the only popular versified Ramayana in 1815 A.D. Tulsivivah, a poem on the marriage of Krishna with Tulsi Plant and many other compositions were written by him. Ranchod Bhakta (1805 A.D), Ranchodji Divan, Hari Bhatt and many others produced Gujarati Literature on Krishna during this period of 1800-1900s.

K M Munshi brought history to life with the Solanki Dynasty from 1887-1971 and Zaverchand Meghani (1897-1947) compiled and published the rich repertoire of oral traditions of Saurashtra. Pannalal Patel wrote of rural Gujarat while Sundaram exploited the plight of the poor. Umashankar Joshi (1911-1988) introduced the free verse form of poetry and made a significant contribution in Gujarati Literature.

Beginning of World War I later marked the beginning of Gandhian era from 1915-45 in Gujarati Literature. It was characterized by humanism, social consiousness and with the perseverance of National spirit.

Gandhian era Literature was filled with Patriotism with critics like K M Munshi, Meghani, Rasiklal Parikh, Kaka Kalekar, Darshak as Nagindas Parekh, Mansukhlal Jhaveri, Anantrai Raval, Snehrashmi, etc. who contributed to Gujarati Literature. Among the short story writers and playwrights, Jayanti Dalal, Chunilal Madia, Gulabdas Brokers and others added to the critics list of new criticism and traditional criticism to post Gandhian period. Post Gandhian era Literature also has traditional critics like Niranjan Bhagat, a well equipped poet critic. Others are Yashwant Shukla, Dhirubhai Thakkar, Ramanlal Joshi, Chandrakanth Sheth, Suresh Dalal, etc. apart from other Philosophical and linguistic Gujarati Literature authors.

Gujarat Vidyapith became the centre of all literary activities where new values emerged and more emphasis was given on Gujarati Literature. Novels, short stories, diaries, letters, plays, essays, criticisms, biographies, travel books and all kinds of prose began to flood Gujarati literature.

British Governments existence pass by and the new technology of printing and press, there began the English language and medium of Education. The new age reads with newspapers, magazines, etc. influenced information and awareness in Society. Literature flourished with modernity as creations reflect to new age thinking, social welfare, criticism, plays, patriotism, politics, spiritual, management, facts, fiction and stories, etc.

In current scenario, Literature in Gujarat with Gujarati Literature is no more limited to Gujarati language as English Literature has entered into the domain. Gujarat have more and more Literature Authors venturing into multi lingual writing and English Literature writers stepping to Gujarati translated versions for eg. Is Paul Coelho whose new age books are translated in local language. Childrens Literature, Arts Literature, womens Literature etc. has paved in way with Gujarati and English language writing getting prominent boost in Gujarat as new writers flourish in State.

It has been the current trend of Author meets, book launches, debating, review sessions and promoting knowledge is power.

The Book Publishing Industry and Internet has even given way to new age writers. Works are published in form of e-books, posted at Google Open book source and even Gujarati Authors are getting Self-published with the POD (Print on Demand services). Thereby, writing, marketing and promoting Literature throughout the world.

Festivals in Gujarat have popular celebrations and observations that include major religious, business and entertaining festivals apart from fairs and heritage tours.

Festivals in Gujarat signify socio-cultural-religious and even economic aspirations of the people of Gujarat. Vibrant Gujarat Kite Festival marks a new record of religious tradition blend with economic development. The Festival and fairs of Gujarat promote unity, spiritual well being, self discipline and austerity. They act as refreshers to monotonous routines and are form of recreations.

Among the most popular festivals celebrated in Gujarat are:

NavratriDeepavali Kite Festival

ShivratriHoliJanmashtmi

Ganesh ChaturthiMohorram - Ramzan

Gujarat celebrates more than 3500 fairs and festivals round the year. They highlight religion, culture and traditions with its rich cultural and traditional history of the yester years.

Gujarat is known as the Land of the Festivals which keeps its traditions alive as they revolve around an occasion such as the turn of a season, the time for harvesting a golden field, or a religious event from India's extensive and rich mythological traditions.

Fairs were originated dating back to Biblical times. There have been several references to the Fairs which were associated with exclusive Religion.

Gujarat is well known for its Fairs and expositions. Over 3500 Fairs and Festivals are celebrated in Gujarat. Commercial, Industrial, Agricultural, Artistic, Religious, Trade Fairs and many more Exhibitions are held round the year in different parts of the State. Due to rich Cultural and historical existence, Gujarat enjoys the Festivity Spirits with customs and traditions that brings alive mythological and heritage that reflects cultural diversity.

Fairs in Gujarat symbolize cultural, social and religious aspirations. Of lately, Gujarats Fairs, Festivals and expositions are focused on Global map due to Vibrant Gujarat Festival which has attracted tourists to Gujarat for the Kite Festival and Investors Summit. Thus, Industrial Fairs, Trade Fairs and many more Commercial Fairs are gaining popularity in Gujarat. Arts and Sculptor, Fashion and Lifestyles, Construction and Interior Designing, Food and Technology Expositions are round the year Event in buzzing Industrial towns of Gujarat.

Gujarat show a new light to the Artistic development with its Kutchh Carnival which offers tourists a rich cultural festival of laser shows, dance recitals, delicious cuisine and exquisite Handicrafts Thus, Kutchh has a vibrant culture is often called The Cradle of Craftsmanship.

Tarnetar Fair has its own Charisma with traditional celebrations of life and Rural Olympic games. Exclusivity of Handicrafts, folk music and dance, match-making venue and three day fair with religious fervor at Trinetreshwar Mahadev Temple is attraction to local, national and International tourists.

Fairs in Gujarat reflect customs and traditions, ethics and values, faith and beliefs of the people of Gujarat. As it focus on religious and cultural diversity, fairs like the Industrial Fairs and expositions, forecast the Economic growth and reach of Gujarat worldwide as it attracts global partners.

Land of the Legends

Discover sense of Excellence in Gujarat where life breathes, Rediscovering life in nations Heritage - In the beauty and charm of Culture and traditions, In the life and lifestyles of people who made their contribution to Gujarat - Rediscover real meaning of life everywhere.

There is something about the soil, the sun, the moon and the stars something about the space and the people Above all, Freedom freedom of choice, to breathe the air of joy and happiness, peace and tranquility.

Life is a Celebration for those who live in the Land of the Legends A place where Gods chose to exist!

Gujarat, the Land of the Legends go down in History to leave behind impressions with footprints on the sands of time. Since many years, the land is Inspired by great Legends.

Inspirations: They Hail From Gujarat

Gandhiji

Father of the Nation who madeIndia Free

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

Iron man Architect of India

Vikram Sarabhai

Visionary Physicist Father of Indian Space Program

Dhirubhai Ambani

The Leader with a vision

Jamshedji Tata

Father of the Indian Industry

Many more adorn the Land of the Legends who make Gujarat proud as we sing in the Glory of Gujarat. People who came from diverse fields.

We shall be featuring Faces faces that make Gujarat Proud, faces that inspire, faces that are reflections of the Land of the Legend Gujarat.

We call for your participation. Let us together build Inspirations for Gujarat as we project the best of the best whos who and important people who contribute to Gujarat and Make a Big Difference!

Choose your Inspirations from the following or from above. Register and add your Inspirational insight. Let us know, Who you like the Best and why. Choice is entirely yours:

Inspirational Characters from Gujarat:

Literature:KrishnaHemchandracharyaMiraakhoPremanandNarsinh MehtaReligion & Meditation:Swami SahajananDayanand SaraswatiShrimad RajchandraPujya MotaAhmed Shah

Arts:Maula BakshUstad Faiz khanOmkarnath ThakurRavishankar RavalJayshankar SundriResearch and Science:Dr. Homi BhabhaDr. Vikram SarabhaiRubin DavidTribhovandas GajjarSalim Ali

Industries (Mahajans):Vastupal TejpalPremchand RaichandJamshedji TataKasturbhai LalbhaiGijubhai BadhekaSocial and for Country:Dadabhai NavrojiMohandas Karamchand GandhiRavishankar MaharajIndulal YagnikShyamji Krishna Verma

Sports:Jam RanjiGeneral RajendrasinhGeneral Manekshaw

Location

Gujarat is located on the western coast of the Indian Peninsula. It borders Pakistan and Rajasthan to the north-east, Madhya Pradesh to the east, Maharashtra and the Union territories of Diu, Daman, Dadra, and Nagar Haveli to the south.

Transport

Gujarat has its exuberant means of transportation which ranges from:

AirwaysNational Highways

RailwaysWaterway

Accommodation

Airways

Ahmedabad, the premier Airport of Gujarat is connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Calcutta, Chennai, etc. by daily services. Gujarat has its own International Airport Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, which connects to Countries worldwide. The States other Airports are Vadodara, Surat, Kandla, Jamnagar, Keshod, Porbandar, Bhavnagar and Bhuj, Rajkot.

It has the longest coastline among Indian states stretching 1,600 kms. Dotted with 41 ports (including 1 major, 11 intermediate and 29 minor)

Ahmedabad Airport : Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport

The Airport serves metropolitan areas of two cities in the State of Gujarat - Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar - and is located 8 km from the Ahmedabad Railway Station and 17.1 km from Ahmedabad Airport to Gandhinagar. It is named after statesman and former Deputy Prime Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The airport is spread over an area of 1,124 acres (4.55 km2) with the runway measuring 11,811 ft (3,600 m).

Domestic Airports

Bhavnagar AirportBhavnagar Airport, 9 km from the city of Bhavnagar.

Bhuj AirportShyamji Krishna Verma, Bhuj Airport.

Jamnagar Airport10 km from the City of Jamnagar.

Kandla Airport (Gandhidham)situated at Kandla, near Gandhidham, in Kutchh district

Keshod Airport (Junagadh)Keshod Airport is found 3 km from Keshod city in Junagadh District.

Porbandar Airportis situated 5 km from the city of Porbandar.

Rajkot Airport4 km from the city of Rajkot.

Surat AirportRecently inaugurated in Surat, on Magdalla Road.

Vadodara Airportdomestic airport can be found near Vadodara city in Gujarat.

International / Domestic Airlines :Air India, Jet Airways,Jet Konnect

International Airlines : Air India, Jet Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines

Domestic Airlines : Indian Airlines, JetLite, Spice Jet, Go Air, IndiGo

Railways

Fast, cheap, simple transportation of both goods and passengers. Main cities of Gujarat are connected to metro cities in India. Three major rail routes are:

Broad Gauge

Meter Gauge

Narrow Gauge

For detailed train timings and availability get more information: www.irctc.co.in

National Highways

Gujarat has approximately 72,165 kms. of roads and it is well connected to other states of the Indian union by road and rail.

National Highway 8 A Connects Ahmedabad-Limbdi-Morbi-KandlaNational Highway 8 B Connects Bamanbor Rajkot Gondal Jetpur and PorbandarNational Highway 8 C Connects Chiloda Gandhinagar and Sarkhej

The first Express Highway number 1 has been operational between Ahmedabad and Vadodara

Water Way

The coastline of Gujarat is approximately 1600 kms long. Thus, trade and transportation through sea route is well developed.

Accommodation

In order to make your trip even more enjoyable you need to choose just the right kind of accommodation for yourself and your associates in the Gujarat. The various hotels packages in Gujarat offers the best of facilities. You may take your pick from a range of luxury and budget hotels in Gujarat besides the star hotels which offer an excellent view of some of the best landmarks through their suites.

Gujarati cuisine (Gujarati: ) refers to the cuisine of Gujarat, India, a state in western India. Despite having an extensive coastline for seafood, it is primarily a vegetarian cuisine due to the influence of Jain vegetarianism and traditional Hinduism.[1][2] The typical Gujarati Thali consists of Rotli, Dal or Kadhi, Rice, and Shaak/Sabzi (a dish made up of different combinations of vegetables and spices, which may be spicy or sweet). Gujarati cuisine varies widely in flavour and heat, depending on a given family's tastes as well as the region of Gujarat they are from. North Gujarat, Kathiawad, Kachchh, and Surti Gujarat are the four major regions of Gujarat that all bring their own style to Gujarati food. Many Gujarati dishes are distinctively sweet, salty, and spicy at the same time.Contents[hide] 1 Overview 2 List of Gujarati dishes 2.1 Breads 2.2 Rice 2.3 Vegetables (Shaak/Subzi) 2.4 Side dishes (Farsan) 2.5 Snacks (Nasta) 2.6 Daal (pulses) 2.7 Mithai (sweets) 2.8 Condiments 2.9 Spices and seasonings 3 See also 4 References 5 External linksOverview[edit]Staples include homemade Khichdi (rice and lentil or rice and mung bean), and chaas (buttermilk) and pickles as side. Main dishes are based on steamed cooked vegetables with different spices and dals that are added to a vaghar, which is a mixture of spices sterilized in hot oil that varies depending on the main ingredient. Salt, sugar, lemon, lime, and tomato are used frequently to prevent dehydration in an area where temperatures reach 50C (122F) in the shade. It is common to add a little sugar or jaggery to some of the sabzi/shaak and dal. The sweet flavour of these dishes is believed to neutralize the slightly bland taste of the vegetables.The cuisine changes with the seasonal availability of vegetables. In summer, when mangoes are ripe and widely available in market, for example, Keri no Ras (fresh mango pulp) is often an integral part of the meal. The spices used also change depending on the season. Garam Masala and its constituent spices are used less in summer. Regular fasting, with diets limited to milk, dried fruits, and nuts, are commonplace.In modern times, some Gujaratis have become increasingly fond of very spicy and fried dishes. There are many chefs who have come up with fusions of Western and Gujarati food. Gujaratis are predominantly vegetarians even though pockets of the state consume chicken, beef and fish.Bajra Roti is a plain flat bread made from flour having nutritional value similar to other foods based on flours.[3] Common meals in villages near Saurashtra during the cold winters consists of thick Rotis, termed Bhakri, made of wheat flour, garlic chutney, onion, and chaas.Sweets (desserts) made from such ingredients as local sugarcane, jaggery,milk,almonds, and pistachios were originally served at weddings and family occasions as an energy booster for relatives traveling long distances to attend.[citation needed] These days[when?], sweets served as part of a thali are more typically made from milk, sugar, and nuts. "Dry" sweets such as Magas and Ghooghra are typically made around celebrations, such as weddings, or at Diwali[citation needed]Gujarati cuisine is also distinctive in its wide variety of farsan side dishes that complement the main meal and are served alongside it. Some farsan are eaten as snacks or light meals by themselves.Gujaratis will often refer to Dal-Bhat-Rotli-Saak as their everyday meal. For special occasions, this basic quartet is supplemented with additional shaak, sweet dishes, and farsan. A festive Gujarati thali often contain over a dozen items. Dietary rules restrict the permissible combination of dishes.[citation needed] For example, if kadhi is to be served, then a lentil preparation such as chutti dal, vaal, or mug ni dal will also be included. The sweet dish accompanying kadhi will likely be milk or yogurtbased, like doodhpak or shrikhand. However, a yogurt-based raita would not be served with such a meal. Festive meals based on dal will typically have a wheat-based sweet dish like lapsi or ladoo as the sweet accompaniment. Many Gujarati families make and consume moong dal in their diet on Wednesdays. There are established combinations of spices that some believe to facilitate digestion, that are eaten with different foods.In coastal Gujarat, the Kharwa community has developed a cuisine consisting of fresh and dried fish. Common seafood are pomfrets, khandwas, gedadas, surmai, prawns, crabs, lobster. and narsinga (calamari).List of Gujarati dishes[edit]Breads[edit]

Puran Poli Bajri no Rotlo: Thick millet flour flatbread usually grilled over coals. Makai no Rotlo: Thick Corn flour flatbread usually grilled over coals. Bhakri: Made with whole wheat flour, thicker than Rotli, crispy. Phulka rotli (Also called Rotli or Chapati): Made with whole wheat flour, rolled thin.[4] Juvar no Rotlo: Thick sorghum flatbread. Parotha: Fried whole wheat flatbread. Puran Poli (Also known as Vedmi): Whole wheat bread filled with sweet moong dal filling usually made for special occasions. Puri: Made with whole wheat flour, deep fried. Thepla/Dhebra: Made with a mixture of flours, pan fried, mildly spiced, usually contains shredded vegetables. Pooda: Made with a mixture of flours, pan fried.Rice[edit]In addition to plain rice, Gujarati cuisine also includes rice based dishes such as: Biranj: Steamed rice flavoured with saffron, sugar, and dried fruit. Khatta-Mittha Bhaat (Sour and Sweet Rice): Rice, boiled with potatoes and spices, yellow in colour and accompanied with lemon peel. Doodhpak: Rice pudding made by boiling rice with milk and sugar, and flavoured with cardamom, raisins, saffron, cashews, pistachios, or almonds. It is typically served as a dessert. Khichdi (Rice & a Dal): Cooked like porridge accompanied with ghee, yogurt, and pickle. Pulao (Rice with vegetables) Khichu: Kneaded rice flour made by heating it with water, salt, green chillies, and cumin.Vegetables (Shaak/Subzi)[edit] Bataka nu Shaak Curry) Bataka Sukhi Bhaji (Dry Potato Curry) Bharela Bhinda (Stuffed dry Okra) Bharela Karela (Stuffed dry Bitter Melon) Bhinda nu Shaak (Dry Okra Curry) Vatana Bataka nu Shaak (Potato and Peas Curry) Chola nu Shaak (Black eyed peas Curry) Dhana capsicum nu Shaak (Dry Coriander, capsicum and chickpea flour curry) Dudhi Bataka nu Shaak (Bottle Gourd and Potato Curry) Dudhi Chana Ni Daal nu Shaak (Bottle Gourd and Split Black Chickpea Curry) Dudhi Ganthia nu Shaak (Bottle Gourd) Dudhi Mag ni Dal nu Shaak (Bottle Gourd and Mung Bean Curry) Dudhi nu Shaak (Bottle Gourd Curry) Fansi ma Dhokli nu Shaak (French Bean Curry with Dumplings) Fansi nu Shaak (Dry Green bean Curry) Ganthoda nu Shaak Gathia nu Shaak Guvar nu Shaak (Cluster Beans Curry)

Kadhi Kadhi (Curry made from buttermilk chhash and gram fluor, usually either sweet or tangy) Kanda Bataka nu Shaak (Onion and Potato Curry) Karela nu Shaak (Bitter Melon Curry) Kobi Bataka nu Shaak (Dry Cabbage and Potato Curry) Mag nu shaak (Mung Bean Curry) Methi nu Shaak (Fenugreek) Panchkutiyu Shaak (Five Vegetable Curry consisting of Ridge Gourd, Potato, Bottle Gourd, Eggplant, and Green Peas) Parwal Bataka nu Shaak (Pointed Gourd and Potato Curry) Ringan nu Shaak (Eggplant) Ringan no Olo (Roasted Eggplant's mashed Curry) Sev Tameta nu Shaak (Curry made of Green (Unripe) Tomatoes) Tameta Bataka nu Shaak (Tomato and Potato Curry) Tindoda nu Shaak (Ivy Gourd Curry) Undhiyu: A mixed vegetable casserole that is traditionally cooked upside down underground in earthen pots fired from above. This dish is usually made of the vegetables that are available on the South Gujarat coastline during the winter season, including (amongst others) green beans, unripe banana, muthia, and purple yam. These are cooked in a spicy curry that sometimes includes coconut. Surti Undhiyu is a variant that is served with puri at weddings and banquets. Again it is a mixed vegetable casserole, made with red lentils and seasoned with spices, grated coconut, and palm sugar in a mild sauce. It is garnished with chopped peanuts and toasted grated coconut, and served with rice or roti. This dish is very popular all over Gujarat, and most Gujarati families eat it at-least once a year on Makar Sankranti. Vad Papadi Nu ShaakSide dishes (Farsan)[edit]

HandvoFarsan are side dishes in Gujarati cuisine. Bhajiya (Deep fried savoury snacks. A popular variety is Pakora.) LOCHO (famous surti variety made from chickpea flour ) Chaat (A mixture of potato pieces, Crispy fried bread, and Spices topped with chutney, cilantro, and yogurt.) Dahi Vada (Fried dumplings soaked in yogurt and topped with salt, cumin, and cayenne pepper.) Dhokla (Steamed cake made primarily of rice flour.) Handvo (Steamed cake made of rice flour, Various beans, yogurts, and calabash.) Kachori (A deep fried dumpling made of flour and filled with a stuffing of Yellow moong dal, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and ginger.) Khaman (Steamed cakes made out of gram flour, garnished with Green chili pepper and cilantro.) Khandvi (Roll made of gram flour and yogurt topped with mustard seed, cilantro, and Grated coconut.) Khichu (A thick porridge-like mixture made of rice flour and seasoned with cumin seeds. Once prepared, the mixture is often topped with oil, cayenne pepper, and salt.) Lilva Kachori (A variety of kachori made with pigeon peas.) Methi na Gota (Fried fenugreek Dumplings) Muthia (Steamed dumpling made of gram flour, fenugreek, salt, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. The steamed dumpling can also be stir fried with Mustard Seed.) Pani Puri (A round hollow flatbread that is fried crisp and filled with potato, and Black Chickpeas and topped with Water seasoned with mint and Green chili pepper, and tamarind chutney.) Patra (Taro Leaves, coated with gram flour, rolled and steamed. Sometimes, the steamed roll is sliced and stir-fried with mustard seed and Grated coconut.) Sev Khamani (Khaman topped with crispy, fried gram flour.) Surat no Locho Vegetable Handva (Grill Handva - Serve it hot either with chutney or tomato sauce or pickle.) Dal vada, Vaati dal na bhajiyaSnacks (Nasta)[edit]

Khandvi, a popular Gujarati snack (Farsan).Most nasta (singular nasto) are deep fried and made with Gram Flour. Chakri Chorafali Fafda Ghanthia Khakhra Mathia Sev Sev mamra Lasaniya mamra Patra "Dhokla"Daal (pulses)[edit] Moong Daal Meethi (Sweet) Kadhi Kadh (an intermediate between kadhi and daal) Tuer daal Mix daalMithai (sweets)[edit]

Sukhadi

Malapua

Jalebi Adadiya Jadariyu Sutarfeni Kansar Maisub Halvasan Malpua Keri no ras Basundi Ghari Ghughra Ghebar or Ghevar Son Papdi Magas (or Magaj) Sukhadi Monthar Gud papdi (Gol papdi) Ronvelia Penda Barfi Ladu Shiro Ghooghra Jalebi Shrikhand Laapsi Doodhpak Shakkarpara Kopra paak Gaajar Halwo Dudhi no Halwo Gur Kaju Katri Gulab JambuCondiments[edit] Chutney Raita Athanu/Pickles PapadSpices and seasonings[edit] Kokum Ambli (Tamarind) Gaur (Jaggery) Chaat Masala Hardar (Turmeric powder) Kothmir (Coriander) Elaichi (Cardamom) Garam Masala (Mix of dry spices, roasted and made powder) Hing (asafoetida) Jeeru (cumin) Kesar (saffron) Marchu (chillies) Lal Marchu Methi (Fenugreek - leaves and seeds) Phoodino (mint) Soonth (ginger powder) Laving (cloves) Mitho Limbdo (curry leaves)