#Traditional Folk Dances of India

[raffaellopalandri]

Happy Sharada Navaratri

Are you celebrating this Sharada Navaratri? This year the festival is held from Sunday, October 15th to Tuesday, October 24th, for the usual nine nights and ten days. The festival is celebrated in the Hindu month of Ashvin – the seventh month of the lunisolar Hindu calendar – and is considered as being an auspicious time of the year. On Navaratri, Hindus celebrate the goddess Durga‘s battles…

[mysterioushimachal]

Padma Shri 2022 Honorees: Lalita Vakil and Vidyanand Sarek from Himachal Pradesh

[robotpussy]

i was just about to watch this video by Cheyenne Lin

Avatar and the Wh*te Imagination (or lack thereof)

about the limits of white imagination and how evident it is in the Avatar movies, and it just reminded me that james cameron worked with an ethnomusicologist, Dr Wanda Bryant, to make music for the na'vi because he wanted something that "would sound like nothing we’ve ever heard on earth" then he decided what was made was too otherworldly and decided that their music should just be what white people would call "alien" and ethnic, aka, whatever music exists in African, Asian and Native American cultures (and that was the final result).

Originally there were many influences coming from all over the globe, but when Cameron listened to the demos, he claimed it was too recognisable as well as too 'weird', albeit for white people and just pushed for a more 'down to earth' version. Avatar is evidence of the continuation of generalized exoticism and stereotyping still being a driving force in Hollywood

[IMAGE ID: A screenshot of a segment from the journal entry written by ethnomusicologist, Dr Bryant discussing the process of creating the music for the avatar films that reads:

"In our initial phone conversation, Horner asked me to find unusual musical sounds that “no one has heard before,” by which he really meant sounds not readily recognizable by the average American movie-goer as belonging to a specific culture, time period, or geographical location"

/END ID]

[IMAGE ID: A screenshot of a paragraph from the journal entry written by ethnomusicologist, Dr Bryant discussing the process of creating the music for the avatar films that reads:

"Through a process of elimination we came up with 25 workable possibilities, including examples of Swedish cattle herding calls, folk dance songs from the Naga people of Northeast India, Vietnamese and Chinese traditional work songs, greeting songs from Burundi, Celtic and Norwegian medieval laments, Central African vocal polyphony, Persian tahrir, microtonal works by Scelsi, the Finnish women’s group Vârttinä, personal songs from the Central Arctic Inuit, and brush dances from northern California. None was an exact blueprint of what we were seeking, but each had at least one interesting musical device or characteristic that we could utilize. In some cases, it was a timbre that we might hope to mimic; in other cases, it may have been a song structure, an ornamentational style, or interesting intonation."

/END ID]

[IMAGE ID: A screenshot of a paragraph from the journal entry written by ethnomusicologist, Dr Bryant discussing the process of creating the music for the avatar films that reads:

"Horner then met with Jim Cameron for his input on our musical ideas. Cameron is a very hands-on director and wants to be kept in the loop about all major decisions. Most of the ideas we presented were dismissed by Cameron out of hand, rejected with appropriately blue language as either too recognizable (“Oh, that’s Bulgarian”) or just “too fucking weird!” Half a dozen examples were approved as possibilities."

/END ID]

You can read the full article here:

There is also a video by sideways that discusses this (if you don't want to read):

[famousinuniverse]

Dances of India

Dance is an ancient and celebrated cultural tradition in India. Folk dances abound all across the country, and huge crowds of people can be found dancing at festivals and weddings. Dance and song features heavily in Indian cinema (so-called “Bollywood” films), too. But where does Indian dance draw its roots from? Here are six of the most important classical dance forms of India.

Classical Dances of India

Odissi

Dancer performing Indian classical odissi dance.

Odissi is indigenous to Orissa in eastern India. It is predominantly a dance for women, with postures that replicate those found in temple sculptures. Based on archaeological findings, odissi is belived to be the oldest of the surviving Indian classical dances. Odissi is a very complex and expressive dance, with over fifty mudras (symbolic hand gestures) commonly used.

Kuchipudi

Kuchipudi performance.

Unlike the other styles mentioned, kuchipudi requires talent in both dancing and singing. This dance, from the state of Andhra Pradesh in southeastern India, is highly ritualized, with a formalized song-and-dance introduction, sprinkling of holy water, and burning of incense, along with invocations of goddesses. Traditionally the dance was performed by men, even the female roles, although now it is predominantly performed by women.

Manipuri

Manipuri-style performance of Indian classical dance.

Manipuri comes from Manipur in northeastern India. It has its roots in that state’s folk traditions and rituals, and often depicts scenes from the life of the god Krishna. Unlike some of the other, more rhythmic dances, Manipuri is characterized by smooth and graceful movements. Female roles are especially fluid in the arms and hands, while male roles tend to have more forceful movements. The dance may be accompanied by narrative chanting and choral singing.

Kathak

Kathak school dancer, in Mughal costume, performing Indian classical dance.

A dance of northern India, Kathak is often a dance of love. It is performed by both men and women. The movements include intricate footwork accented by bells worn around the ankles and stylized gestures adapted from normal body language. It was originated by Kathakas, professional storytellers who used a mixture of dance, song, and drama. Like other Indian dances it began as a temple dance, but soon moved into the courts of ruling houses.

Kathakali

Kathakali dance

Kathakali comes from southwestern India, around the state of Kerala. Like bharatanatyam, kathakali is a religious dance. It draws inspiration from the Ramayana and stories from Shaiva traditions. Kathakali is traditionally performed by boys and men, even for female roles. The costumes and makeup are especially elaborate, with faces made to look like painted masks and enormous headdresses.

Bharatanatyam

Bharatanatyam performance

Bharatanatyam is a dance of Tamil Nadu in southern India. It traces its origins back to the Natyashastra, an ancient treatise on theatre written by the mythic priest Bharata. Originally a temple dance for women, bharatanatyam often is used to express Hindu religious stories and devotions. It was not commonly seen on the public stage until the 20th century. The dance movements are characterized by bent legs, while feet keep rhythm. Hands may be used in a series of mudras, or symbolic hand gestures, to tell a story.

6 Classical Dances of India | Britannica

[bongboyblog]

The Endangered Dance Form Of West Bengal

Dance, art, and culture and an adda at the local chai shop make a bangali, a pure bangali. Let's have an adda over tea about the endangered dance form, Chhau dance, also spelled Chhou dance. It is found in other regions of India like Jharkhand, and Odisha with different forms and names- Purulia Chhau of West Bengal, the Seraikella Chhau of Jharkhand, and the Mayurbhanj Chhau of Odisha. The dance includes everything from a structured dance with Shaivist, Shakti, and Vaishnavist religious themes to a celebration of martial arts, acrobatics, and athletics done in the festive themes of a folk dance.

It is customarily performed by an all-male group, and the dance may be a syncretic dance form that evolved from the blending of classical Hindu dances and the customs of long-extinct local tribes. The dance is remarkable and unites individuals from various socioeconomic levels in a joyful and religious atmosphere. Performed by male dancers who trained under Gurus or Ustads (masters), or who come from families of traditional artists. Its roots can be found in indigenous dance and combat styles. The basic language of Chhau dance consists of khel (fake combat moves), chalis and topkas (stylized animal and bird gaits), and uflis (movements based on a country housewife's everyday tasks). Oral transmission is used to pass on the knowledge of dance, music, and mask-making. It lasts all night long and is performed in an area known as an akhada or asar.

Local mythology, folklore, scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as abstract concepts, are some of the topics covered by the dancers' repertory. The vibrant music is characterized by the rhythm of indigenous drums like the dhol, dhumsa and kharka and the melody of the mohuri and shehnai. The majority of the dancers are from the Munda, Mahato, Kalindi, Pattnaik, Samals, Daroga, Mohanty, Acharya, Bhol, Kar, Dubey, and Sahoo communities. Musicians come from the Mukhi, Kalindi, Ghadhei, and Dhada groups. They take part in the instrument production as well. Communities of traditional painters known as Maharanas, Mohapatras, Sutradhars are involved in the making of these masks.

Not only were Paika and Natua the forerunners of Chhau dance (particularly Purulia style), but Nachni dance also had a significant influence on the way Chhau is known today. The female moves and gaits used in Chhau dance are virtually solely taken from Nachni dance. The Chhau dance was added to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2010. The Government Chhau Dance Centre and the Mayurbhanj Chhau Nritya Pratisthan were created by the Government of Odisha in 1960 and 1962, respectively, in Seraikella and Baripada.

[computer-knowledge27]

Navaratri 2024: Embracing Divine Energies in April's Splendor.

For the last Navaratri celebration, the focus was on honoring tradition while adding a modern twist to the culinary delights. Here's a glimpse of the delicious fare that graced the tables during Navaratri 2024 in April:

Sundal Varieties: Sundal, a South Indian snack made from legumes like chickpeas, black-eyed peas, or lentils, was prepared in a myriad of flavors. From traditional coconut and mustard tempering to innovative twists like tangy mango or spicy tamarind, each sundal offered a burst of flavor.

Navaratri Special Thali: A vibrant array of dishes adorned the Navaratri special thali. It featured delicacies like crispy Sabu dana vadas, creamy pumpkin kheer, and spicy potato curry. The thali was a celebration of diverse flavors and textures, symbolizing the richness of the Navaratri festival.

Fruit Chat with a Twist: A refreshing fruit chat received a makeover with a drizzle of honey infused with cardamom and saffron. This sweet and tangy treat was a delightful addition to the Navaratri menu, offering a burst of freshness amidst the rich festive fare.

Navaratri-inspired Mocktails: Cool and refreshing mocktails were served to complement the spicy and savory dishes. Mocktails infused with flavors like rose, mint, and citrus provided a welcome respite from the heat and added a touch of sophistication to the celebrations.

Innovative Desserts: Traditional sweets like coconut ladu and jaggery-based delicacies shared the spotlight with innovative desserts. Guests indulged in decadent offerings like chocolate-dipped bananas adorned with edible gold leaf and saffron-infused rashgullas, elevating the dessert experience to new heights.

Garba: Garba is a traditional dance form originating from the state of Gujarat in India. During Navaratri, people gather in large groups to perform this joyful and energetic dance. Dancers form concentric circles or intricate patterns, clapping their hands and moving gracefully to the rhythm of traditional folk songs. The vibrant costumes and rhythmic beats create an electrifying atmosphere, where participants immerse themselves in the joyous spirit of the festival.

Dandiya Raas: Dandiya Raas is another popular dance form performed during Navaratri, especially in Gujarat and other parts of India. In this dance, participants wield colorful sticks called dandiyas while moving in pairs or groups. The dancers strike their dandiyas in sync with the music, creating a rhythmic pattern of beats. Dandiya Raas is not only a dance but also a social activity that fosters camaraderie and community spirit.

Folk Dances: Apart from Garba and Dandiya Raas, various folk dances from different regions of India are also performed during Navaratri. These dances showcase the cultural diversity of the country, with each region contributing its unique style and repertoire. From the graceful movements of Odissi to the energetic steps of Bhangra, folk dances add a colorful dimension to Navaratri celebrations, reflecting the rich heritage and traditions of India.

[ghumindiaghum]

Tourism Minister Pushes Promotions for Mahakumbh 2025

The Uttar Pradesh Tourism and Culture Minister, Jaiveer Singh, has issued instructions to begin large-scale promotions for Mahakumbh 2025. During a recent meeting, he stressed the need to involve youth, students, and women to highlight the cultural and spiritual importance of this event. The Mahakumbh, recognized as one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, will attract millions of pilgrims.

Key Plans for Promotions

The Culture Department and the Information and Public Relations Department have been assigned the responsibility of managing the promotional campaigns. Various activities, such as cultural events and roadshows, will take place not only within Uttar Pradesh but also in key cities like Nasik, Ujjain, and Haridwar. These efforts are part of the broader strategy to attract nationwide participation and ensure greater awareness of promotions for Mahakumbh 2025.

A special Kumbh Yatra Mobile Bus will also travel across the country. This bus will feature LED displays showcasing the history and importance of Mahakumbh. Schools, colleges, and universities will collaborate on hosting local cultural programs to further engage communities.

Cultural Programs and Artist Involvement

The Culture Department will organize pre-Kumbh cultural evenings. Artists from every district in Uttar Pradesh will be encouraged to participate in these events. Interested performers can register through the department’s official website. The goal is to involve as many local artists as possible, highlighting regional art forms and traditions.

All promotional events must be completed by December 15, 2024. These activities aim to spread awareness of Mahakumbh’s spiritual significance and India’s cultural heritage.

Additional Pre-Kumbh Events

In addition to promotions for Mahakumbh 2025, the minister has outlined several events leading up to the gathering. These include digital exhibitions, roadshows, laser shows, Kumbh-themed quizzes, folk dances, and film screenings. The goal is to inspire public engagement and create excitement before the main event.

During the meeting, the minister also reviewed the preparations for the Ayodhya Deepotsav 2024. Performances by international Ramleela groups from countries such as Thailand, Myanmar, and Indonesia are planned. A special presentation titled Ramcharitmanas: Nari Shakti will feature 50 artists from the Maitreya Pahari troupe.

Monitoring Progress and Upcoming Deadlines

The minister raised concerns about delays in ongoing construction projects for the financial year 2023-24 in districts such as Mainpuri, Hardoi, and Etah. He asked officials to complete all pending work quickly and instructed them to finalize the tender processes for approved projects in 2024-25 to avoid further delays.

The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Principal Secretary of Tourism Mukesh Kumar Meshram and Director of Tourism Prakhar Mishra.

With these efforts, the Uttar Pradesh government aims to make Mahakumbh 2025 a successful and enriching experience for both pilgrims and participants from around the world.

[hariyali]

Resource Masterlist: Indian Art

Cheap/Free resources:

Wkipedia:

Wikipedia of Indian Art: I'll recommend reading the subtopics from bottom up; it seems more relevant that way!

Wikipedia of Indian Painting: once you go through this article you should further look into whichever style you like, and learn it in depth. It also has links to vernacular art.

Rasa: the classical theory of Indian aesthetics

From Archive.Org (maybe scholarly and/or illustrative. In case illustrations are not there, simply Google them for reference):

Stone Age Painting in India by Romert Brooks

The arts of India from prehistoric to modern times by Ajit Mookerji (If you have no idea about Indian arts, START HERE; it's a short book full of illustrations)

Rajput painting : romantic, divine and courtly art from India by Ahluwalia, Roda

Indian Painting by C Sivaramamurti

South Indian Paintings by C Sivaramamurti

Approach to nature in Indian art and thought by C Sivaramamurti

[There are many books on Indian art, architecture and sculpture by C Sivaramamurti on Archive.org. It's basically a goldmine.]

Kalighat : Indian popular painting, 1800-1930 by Balraj Khanna

Art of modern India by Balrak Khanna [Again, you can check out other titles by Khanna.]

Indian Textiles by John Gillow

Traditional Indian Textiles by John Gillow

South-Indian images of gods and goddesses by HK Sastri

Myths and symbols in Indian art and civilization by Heinrich Zimmer (no illustrations)

The art of Indian Asia, its mythology and transformations by Heinrich Zimmer (with illustrations)

History of Indian and Indonesian art by Ananda Coomaraswamy

A Concise History of Indian Art by Roy C Craven

Deccani Painting by Mark Zebrowski

Indian Folk Art by Heinz Mode; Subodh Chandra

Women of India by Otto Rothfeld (this isn't about art but has few informative illustrations on regional costumes of women)

Dress And Ornaments In Ancient India by Mohini Verma and Keya Bawa

Classical dances and costumes of India by Ambrose, Kay

Cultures and Costumes of India and Sri Lanka by Kilgallon, Conor (o course i had to see other books on costumes)

Studies In Indian Painting by DB Taraporevala

Five Thousand Years of Indian Art by Hermann Goetz

Indian Painiting by Philip Rawson

The Art of Tantra by Philip Rawson

MS Randhawa (different books on Punjabi paintings Basohli, Kangra, Guler and General Themes in Indian Painting)

The imperial image: paintings for the Mughal court by Beach, Milo Cleveland

Wonders of nature : Ustad Mansur at the Mughal court by Dāśa, Aśoka Kumāra

Imperial mughal painting by Welch, Stuart Cary

Painted delight : Indian paintings from Philadelphia collections

India : life, myth and art by Ram-Prasad, Chakravarthi

The heritage of Indian art by Agrawala, Vasudeva Sharana

The adventures of Rama : with illustrations from a sixteenth-century Mughal manuscript

Indian paintings from the Punjab Hills by WG Archer

Art in East and West by Rowland Benjamin

Stella Kramisch (An American art historian and curator who was a leading specialist on Indian art, including folk art, for most of the 20th century. Also a Padma Bhushan awardee.)

The transformation of nature in art by Coomaraswamy, Ananda K

Books available on Libgen:

Art Of Ancient India : Buddhist, Hindu, Jain by Huntington and Huntington

The New Cambridge History of India, Volume 1, Part 3: Mughal and Rajput Painting

Myths and Symbols in Indian Art and Civilization by Heinrich Zimmer

Four Centuries of Rajput Painting: Mewar, Marwar and Dhundhar Indian Miniatures from the Collection of Isabelle and Vicky Ducrot

Ajanta by Yazdani

The Aesthetic Experience Acording to Abhinavagupta

TheHeritageLab is a free website to connect you to cultural heritage through stories, public engagement programs, campaigns, and free-access content.

Also if you're in Delhi, do consider getting a membership of Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) library.

Folk art:

Folk art is an entirely different area that deserve a post of its own. But i love them so here is a long list by Memeraki.com. You can Google each and then look more into what you like. This website also offers very cheap courses in traditional Indian arts by the hidden and disenfranchised masters themselves! It's doing a great work in giving them a platorm. I myself have taken the Mughal Miniature course here. You can consider it.

Illustrated Books:

Note: These are coffee table books with beautiful illustrations that you'd love to looks at.

The Night Life of Trees: In the belief of the Gond tribe, the lives of humans and trees are closely entwined. A visual ode to trees rendered by tribal artists from India, this handcrafted edition showcases three of the finest living Gond masters. THIS YOUTUBE LINK shows the making of the book. The channel also features other works of Gond art.

An Unknown Treasure in Rajasthan: The Bundi Wall-Paintings:  This book celebrates the surviving wall-paintings at Bundi by presenting a stunning photographic survey

Painting In the Kangra Valley: Painting in the Kangra Valley is an attempt to survey the painting styles of Guler and Kangra, which flourished in the 18th and 19th centuries. The painting activity began with Kashmiri painters (...)

Indian Painting: The Lesser Known Traditions: India has an astonishingly rich variety of painting traditions. While miniature painting schools became virtually extinct with the decline of aristocratic patronage, a number of local vernacular idioms still survive and continue to develop.

Madhubani Art: Indian Art Series: Madhubani art's origin is believed to go back to the ancient era of the Ramayana, when the town was decorated by inhabitants of the region for the wedding of Lord Rama and Sita with elaborate wall paintings and murals (...) Primarily a significant socio-cultural engagement for the womenfolk of Bihar, this art was a welcome break from their daily drudgery.

Reflections on Mughal Art and Culture: Enter the splendid world of Mughal India and explore its rich aesthetic and cultural legacy through fresh insights offered by 13 eminent scholars.

Monsoon Feelings: A History of Emotions in the Rain: Through a series of evocative essays exploring rain-drenched worlds of poetry, songs, paintings, architecture, films, gardens, festivals, music and medicine, this lavishly illustrated collection examines the history of monsoon feelings in South Asia from the twelfth century to the present

Sita's Ramayana shifts the point of view of the Ramayana - the saga of a heroic war - to bring a woman's perspective to this timeless epic. Illustrated with Patua painting.

Adi Parva: Churning of the Ocean: a graphic novel that is a revisionist retelling of some of our oldest tales which have inspired and guided generations of people.

Ajit Mookerji, Sivaramamurti and Craven Roy's books are concise from where one can begin and then delve deeper into the subject of interest. Reading history and myths behind the work for context and listening to music from the given time/region alongside will make the exploration even more enjoyable!

[insharana]

Bharat Parv 2024

Bharat Parv is an annual event organized by the Government of India to celebrate the country's rich cultural heritage, diversity, and history. The event typically takes place in New Delhi around Republic Day, which falls on January 26th. It aims to showcase various aspects of India's culture, including its cuisine, handicrafts, music, dance, and traditions.

During Bharat Parv, visitors can explore different pavilions representing various states and union territories of India. These pavilions usually feature exhibitions highlighting the unique cultural, historical, and artistic aspects of each region. Visitors can enjoy traditional performances, sample regional cuisines, and purchase handicrafts and souvenirs representing different parts of the country.

The event also includes cultural performances, folk dances, music concerts, and exhibitions showcasing India's achievements in various fields such as science, technology, and sports. Additionally, there are often competitions, workshops, and interactive sessions aimed at promoting awareness and appreciation of India's diverse heritage among visitors, especially the younger generation.

Overall, Bharat Parv serves as a platform for fostering national unity, promoting tourism, and celebrating the rich tapestry of India's culture and heritage. It attracts both domestic and international visitors and provides an opportunity for people from different backgrounds to come together and experience the vibrancy and diversity of India.

[via-l0ve]

hii can i please request a 🎃for spn? Thanks!!

So im 5 foot (and a half inch 😭), dark brown eyes and hair (2c wavy its not long but its not medium either) big eyes, babyface so im percieved as cute, i'm a bit tan, skinny, strawberry legs, ear piercings (2 imma get another one soon hehehe) and uhh yeah thats it for physical

Now personality, bubbly, caring,kind,sweet, ambivert, sensitive, hate conflicts, very lovergirl vibe, sunshine in human form with a little bit of chaos sprinkled in there as concluded by my friends, softspoken, think before speaking (overthinking tbh), i love dancing (ive learned kathak a little and can do other dance forms easily too like contemp., freestyle, bollywood, salsa and folk dances from india), reading books, sketching, photography, watching bollywood movies, dressing up (especially in traditional wear) id describe my aesthetic as very cottagecore + coquette+ softcore+ desi glam like cutesy clothes (but sometimes i do be feeling like a baddie)

My fave artists are lana del rey, abba, phoebe bridgers, hozier, green day, boygenius, sufjan stevens, mazzy star, marina, red hot chili peppers, sharon van etten, cigs after sex, arctic monkeys, the cranberries. And some hindi music artists.

Im fluent in 2 languages and can understand and speak broken urdu, sanskrit and punjabi

My fave seasons are fall, summer and spring, im an aquarius and bisexual, eldest daughter, desi (indian) im a chai person, hate coffee and street food is my absolute reason for living, im really into fashion and wanna be a fashion stylist

Ok idk what else to say 😭

YOURE SO COOL!

hope you enjoy this mashup darling!!!

I ship you with Sam Winchester!

PLEASEEE he will beg you to speak in your languages and maybe even teach him some! he will religiously listen to Cigs after sex, red hot chilli peppers and Arctic monkeys with you. please annoy dean together he will have the time of his life.

he would love to meet your family and younger siblings. he treats them as his own family and loves it so much!!

[odiagan]

Discovering the Traditional Music of Odisha: 7 Major Genres of Odia Music

Odisha, known for its rich cultural heritage, boasts a diverse and vibrant musical landscape. Here are the top 7 categories of Odia music that showcase the state's musical richness:

Jagannath Bhajans:

Jagannath Bhajans are devotional songs dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a significant deity in Odia culture. These bhajans are sung in praise of Lord Jagannath and are an integral part of Odisha's religious and musical traditions. They are often sung in temples and during religious festivals.

Odia Film Songs:

Odia cinema, also known as Ollywood, has produced numerous melodious songs over the years. From romantic ballads to peppy dance numbers, Odia film songs cater to a wide range of musical tastes. Fans can easily find and download the latest Odia movie songs, including new Odia song MP3 download, from various online platforms.

Sambalpuri Folk Music:

Sambalpuri folk music originates from the western regions of Odisha, particularly Sambalpur. It includes vibrant folk songs accompanied by traditional instruments like dhol, nisan, and flute. Sambalpuri songs often depict rural life, nature, and cultural celebrations.

Classical Odissi Music:

Odissi music is an essential component of Odissi dance, one of the classical dance forms of India. It features classical ragas, tala patterns, and lyrical compositions in Odia language. Odissi music is known for its graceful melodies and rhythmic intricacies, making it a cherished art form.

Odia Modern Music:

Contemporary Odia music encompasses a variety of genres, including modern pop, rock, fusion, and electronic music. Many talented Odia artists and bands create innovative compositions that blend traditional elements with modern sounds, catering to the preferences of younger audiences.

Chhanda & Champu Music:

Chhanda and Champu are traditional poetic forms in Odia literature, often set to music. Chhanda features rhythmic verses suitable for singing and is commonly used in Odia music compositions. Champu combines prose and poetry and has been historically used in Odia music to convey narratives and emotions.

Odia Bhajans & Kirtans:

Odia Bhajans and Kirtans are devotional songs sung in praise of various deities like Lord Krishna, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Durga. These spiritual compositions invoke a sense of devotion and are performed during religious gatherings, especially in temples and during festivals.

To explore and download Odia songs, including new Odia song MP3 download and Odia song download, enthusiasts can visit reputable music streaming platforms, online music stores, or dedicated Odia music websites. These platforms offer a vast collection of Odia music across different genres, ensuring that listeners can enjoy a diverse range of musical experiences from Odisha's rich musical heritage.

[lgbtqiamuslimpedia]

Hijra (South Asia)

Hijra (Arabic: ہیجڑا) is a south asian subcultural identity for transgender women, transvestites (MTF), androgynous male, intersex & non-binary folks. Many Hijras lives in well-organized communities, led by a guru (leader) in Bangladesh, Pakistan, India & some parts of Nepal. Traditionally, hijras are recognized as a “distinct gender” which is different from the normative male & female genders. Most of them are assigned “male” at birth, while a small number of hijras are born intersex and later develop a feminine gender identity or gender ambiguity. Hijras usually present themselves in feminine attire, use feminine names & pronouns for themselves. Some hijras may present themselves in masculine outfits, may use masculine names or vice-versa. Both Izak & Hijragaan are equivalents of the term “Hijra” in Afghanistan. Afghani vernacular term Izak refers to eunuch or people of ambiguous gender/sex. Izak is also used as a slurr against LGBTQI+ community.

Hijra Culture

Hijras has their own traditions, rituals, cults, language & festivities. Hijras typically earn a living through various means, including participating in toli–badhai (ritual blessings), collecting alms, begging, prostitution, dancing & singing at different occasions. These activities serve as common sources of income within the hijra community. Most of the Hijra communities follows a kinship known as guru-chela or guru-shishyaa. This kinship is based on hierarchal relationships of discipleship among hijras, organizing themselves into different dera/gharanas (house). These dera/gharanas serve as social units, provide a sense of belonging and support to gender-diverse folks. Many hijras try to maintain matrilineal relationships within their communities; these relationships include guru ma or ma (mother), daughter, maasi or mausi (aunty), sister, niece, nani or naniguru (grandmother). In hijra community, gurus are revered as mother, parent, guardian & sometimes brother. Chelas are revered as son or daughter of guru. In hijra community, individuals can become members through an ritual ceremony or reet which is very much common within Hijra community. Many transgendered hijras & kothis do castration, emasculation before joining the community. However, community membership is not solely dependent on genital mutilation.

The governing bodies within the hijra/kinner community play a central role in maintaining their cultural practices and traditions. These governing bodies hold influential positions on decision-making and community affairs within communities. They contribute to the overall structure and organization of the hijra/kinner/third gender communities.

The spiritual status of hijras is publicly acknowledged & accepted as a part of their gender identity, entitling them to attain a spiritual level referred to as “others” non-hijras. Prior to arrival of Islam in South Asia, kinners (hindu hijra folks) were elevated to the status of demi-god in Indian subcontinent. They were believed to possess supernatural powers that could bestow fertility and good luck upon those who sought kinner's blessings. Upon their conversion to Islam, kinners adopted the label “hijra” which means spiritual migration, transformation, transcend, liminality. Hijras became great devotees of Sufi saints, such as Khwaja Gharib Nawaz, Lal Shahbaz Qalaander, Baba Bulleh Shah. Most of the hijra folks incorporated their Hindu beliefs into their practice of Islam after their conversion. They visits Sufi shrines, temples, and mosques, as well as participate in pilgrimages. Muslim hijras also maintain a belief in the Goddess Bahuchara Maa. Bahuchara Maa is patron of hijra, kinner, transgender woman, eunuch, transvestite, kothi communities. She is also known as Mai Nandi in Pakistan.

Kothi

The word Kothi is common across India & Bangladesh. Other local equivalents of Kothi are Durani (Kolkata), Meti (Nepal), Zenana/Zanana (Pakistan). While Kothis are often distinguished from Hijras, they often dress as women and act in a feminine manner in public spaces, even using feminine language to refer to themselves and each-other. Sometimes the term Kothi is regarded as person who play passive or submissive role in homosexual relationships. In India, the term Kothi refers to effeminate homosexuals & transvestite homosexuals who take feminine role in homosexual relationship with Panthi (a south asian term for masculine gay/bisexual/straight man, who dates hijras & kothis). Majority of kothis don't live in intentional communities that hijras usually lives in. Some argued that term “Kothi” is an all-encompassing term for homosexual bottoms, effeminate males, trans-feminines, transvestites, trans woman, who do not conform to societal, normative gender roles. So the term Kothi would include the identity of Hijra, among others.

Religious Practices

Many hijra communities practice a form of syncretism that draws on multiple religions, including islam, hinduism, buddhism, sikhism, etc. Both Indian hindu hijras/kinners and muslim hijras are devotee of Goddess Bahuchara Maa. Majority of gurus in hijra community are muslim in Indian subcontinent. Annually they pay homage to Hazrat Khawaja Gharib Nawaz in Ajmer Sharif.According to Gayatri Reddy, Indian muslim hijras do not practice Islam differently from other muslims. Their religious syncretism doesn't make them any less muslim. Reddy also documents an example of how this syncretism manifests: In Hyderabad of India a group of muslim converts were circumcised, something seen as the quintessential marker of Muslim identity.

Guru-chela system is very similar to Pir-Mureed discipleship of Sufism. In Sufi traditions, a Pir/Guru (spiritual guider) takes on disciples known as Mureeds, forming a deep and spiritual relationship. Some believes that south asian hijras adopted this system of mentorship & spiritual guidance within their own community.

In Pakistan, most hijras do not practice religious syncretism. But they have great tolerance & compassion for other religions. Pakistani hijras are more connected with sufi cultures & Mughal cultures. Some prefers the term Khawaja Sara for themselves instead of Hijra, Khusra. They pay homage to sufi dargahs, pray at mosque or dargah (in male outfit). Hijras also perform Islamic Hajj & Umrah in Mecca, until 2017 when saudi authorities ban religious pilgrimage for transgender & third gender folks.

Hijra Farsi Language

Hijra Farsi/Farsi Kalaam is a secret code language of hijra, khwaja sara, & zennana communities. It is also spoken among non-hijra LGBTQ+ members. Hijra Farsi was originated during the Mughal Era. Hijra Farsi is widely spoken among muslim hijras, khwajasaras & zennanas. Hindu hijras/kinner speaks Gupti language. known as Hijra Farsi, Farsi Kalaam. Some parts of India & in Bangladesh, it is known as Ulti Bhasha.

History

Hijra identity & culture are documented to have evolved during the Delhi Sultanate (1226-1526) and Mughal Empire (1526-1707), where they held positions as guardian of royal harems, court officials, entertainers, servant for elite households, manual laborers, political advisors, etc. They had been guardians of many sufi shrines in medieval era.

Since 19th century, hijras were targeted by British colonial authorities who sought to eradicate them, criminalised them under Section 377 (1860) & Criminal Tribe Act (1870). This encouraged anti-hijra sentiments throughout the Indian subcontinent, the legacies of which continued in later days. As a result, people started to viewing Hijras differently. Beginning in the 1850s with the British Raj, colonial authorities deployed various strategies to eradicate hijras, whom they saw as "a breach of public decency." The British viewed hijras as incapable of "moral transformation" & assimilation and therefore subjected them to eliminatory policies. In 1860, hijras became subjected to Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code which allowed British authorities to prosecute hijras for their sexuality. Even though they were already criminalized under the Section 377, authorities of the North-Western Provinces (NWP) sought to enact a 'Special law' against hijras in 1861.

By 1870, no high-ranking British officials argued against the implementation of special legislation to address the 'hijra problem,' thus solidifying a violent anti-hijra campaign all across the Indian subcontinent. Anti-hijra laws were enacted; whereas a law outlawing castration (a central part of the hijra community, although not required for community membership), crossdressing, community gathering, ritual practices. Hijras were included in the Criminal Tribes Act (1871) and labelled a "criminal tribe", now subjected to compulsory registration, strict monitoring, and stigmatization. Because of economic costs, which were the main impetus behind British colonialism, Hijras and other so-called "criminal tribes" were unable to be collectively sequestered from colonial society.

Furthermore, Child Removal Projects, which had already begun elsewhere in the British Empire, like Colonial Australia with the forced removal of aboriginal children for assimilation into white settler society, were brought to India for all 'criminal tribes' officially in 1911. Child removal was already in de-facto practice against hijras since the passage of the Criminal Tribes Act (1871) to initiate the extermination of hijra communities by preventing initiation, since the dominant colonial narrative was that all trans & intersex children were "kidnapped and enslaved". Researcher Jessica Hinchy notes that the elimination oriented tactics carried out toward hijras during the colonial era were comparable to what Patrick Wolfe called the 'logic of elimination' in British settler colonies, such as the USA and Australia, as well as the anti-joya campaigns executed by Spanish colonial authorities against gender-diverse people centuries earlier in the establishment of New Spain (1535-1821). After the independence, hijras survived these barbaric colonial extermination. But the centuries-old stigma & shame continues as a legacy of British colonialism in modern days. In the late 20th & early 21st centuries, hijras became the subject of more attention, being the focus of numerous news features, films, literature, documentaries, ethnographies, monographs, dissertations. Since the late 20th century some NGOs & rights groups lobbied for official recognition of the hijra community.

Legal Recognition in South Asia

Hijra rights in India:

Hijra community is known by different names in Indian subcontinent.For example: Khusra,Khusaraa,Jankha,Zennani in Punjab; Pavaiyaa in Gujrat;Hinjida in Odisha;Dhurani, Brihonnala,Hijre in West Bengal;Khawajasera in Urdu;Ali,Aravani in Tamil Nadu,Khadra in Sindhi,etc.

Hijra is a pejorative term, most transgenders consider hijra as derogatory & some transgenders does not consider it as a derogatory.Indian transgenders often prefer the term ''Kinner'' for themselves.

In 1994, Hijras were legally granted voting rights as a third sex.Due to alleged legal ambiguity of the procedure,Indian hijras has difficulties accessing safe medical facilities for surgery.In 1998 Shabnam Mausi (a muslim hijra) was elected as India's first transgender MLA.

In April, 2014 Indian Supreme Court recognised hijra,transgender,eunuch, & intersex people as a "third gender" in law.The Court ruled that hijras,transgender people have a fundamental constitutional right to change their gender without any sort of surgery, and called on the Union Government to ensure equal treatment for hijra people.The Court also ruled that the Indian Constitution mandates the recognition of a third gender on official documents and that Article 15 bans discrimination based on gender identity.In light of the ruling,government documents, such as voter ID cards, passports & bank forms, have started providing a third gender option alongside male (M) & female (F), usually designated as "other" (O),"third gender" (TG) or "transgender" (T).

The states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala were the 1st Indian states to introduce a Transgender Welfare Policy.According to the policy, transgender & hijra people can access free sex-reassignment surgery in govt. hospitals (only for Male to Female),free housing,various citizenship documents, admission in government colleges with full scholarship for higher studies,alternative sources of livelihood through formation of self-help groups(for savings) and initiating income-generation programmes (IGP).

On 24 April 2015, the Rajya Sabha unanimously passed the Rights of Transgender Persons Bill, guaranteeing rights and entitlements,reservations in education,jobs,unemployment allowances, pensions,legal aids & skill development for Hijras.It also contained provisions to prohibit discrimination in employment as well as prevent abuse,violence and exploitation of Hijra people.Social Justice & Empowerment Minister Thaawar Chand Gehlot stated on 11 June 2015 that the Union Government would introduce a new comprehensive bill for trans rights in the Monsoon session of Parliament. The bill would be based on the study on trans issues conducted by a committee appointed on 27 January 2014.According to Thaawar Chand Gehlot, the Government sought to provide trans & hijra people with all rights and entitlements currently enjoyed by scheduled castes & scheduled tribes.

The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill,2016, which was initially introduced to Parliament in August 2016, was reintroduced to Parliament in late 2017. Some LGBTQ+ & hijra activists have opposed the bill because it does not address issues such as marriage,adoption & divorce for trans people.It was passed by the Lok Sabha on 17 December 2018, with 27 amendments, including a controversial clause prohibiting hijras from begging.

In April 2017, the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation instructed states to allow transgender people to use the public toilet of their choice.In October 2017, the Karnataka Government issued the "State Policy for Transgenders, 2017", with the aim of raising awareness of transgender people within all educational institutions in the state. Educational institutions will address issues of violence & discrimination against trans people.

On 28 November 2017, N. Chandrababu Naidu, the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, announced the enactment of pension plans for transgender people.On 16 December 2017, the Andhra Pradesh Cabinet passed the policy. According to the policy, the State Government will provide an amount of ₹1,500 per month to each trans person above the age of 18 for social security pensions.The Govt. will also construct Transgender toilets in public places.

In early 2019, the Social Welfare Department of Assam published a draft "transgender policy" with numerous objectives, including providing transgender people access to educational institutions, providing shelter and sanitation for the homeless, raising awareness, and issuing self-identification identity cards.

Hijra rights in Pakistan

In Pakistan hijra & khawaja sara community has a vibrant culture (both are culturally & historically different identities). In Pakistan, Hijras are sometimes referred to as eunuch, shemale, mukhannath, transvestite, khusra, moorat/murat, khadra, chakka, khawaja sara/sera, intersex, teesri zins (third gender), etc. Hijras faces humiliation & violence on daily basis in Pakistan. Surprisingly, they enjoy a certain level of acceptance & respect due to their position in pre-colonial Islamic empires & spiritual status. Their presence in Pakistani muslim society is usually tolerated. Many khawaja sara & hijras called themselves cultural heirs of the Mughal eunuchs & mukhannaths.

Pakistani society has a common myth regarding the hijra that they are born with congenital conditions, sexual ambiguities & they are incapable of procreation. In 2009, the Pakistan's Supreme Court officially recognized hijra's gender. The landmark ruling stated that as citizens they were entitled to the equal benefit from the federal and provincial governments' financial support schemes. In 2010, the court ordered the full recognition of the hijra/khawaja sara community, including the provision of free medical & educational facilities, microcredit schemes and job quotas for hijras in every government department. But court did not say anything about their protections from discrimination in public services or housing.

On 8 May 2018, the National Assembly of Pakistan passed country's first historic Transgender Person (Protection of Rights) Act, 2018 (مُتَجَنَّس افراد کے لیے (تحفظ حقوق) قانون 2018ء). Transgender Person Act ensure the right of self-identification of one's gender Pakistani gender diverse people may express their gender according to their own preferences, & they may have their gender identity of choice reflected on their documents (including NICs, passports, driver's licenses,education certificates) The act ensures transgender people's "fundamental rights to inheritance, education, employment, vote, hold public office, health, assembly, and access to public spaces and property.

Hijra rights in Bangladesh

When Bangladesh was under Pakistani rule, the state used to provide pensions to the elder hijra community during their old age. This subsidy was initially continued after Bangladesh gained independence, but was later discontinued. In November 2013, Bangladesh officially recognized Hijras as a third gender. Bangladeshi Hijras are often discriminated, harassed due to public exposure of their ‘inappropriate’ gender & sexual expression which trangresses gender normativity and heterosexual dimensions of muslim society. Despite this, Bangladesh does not have policies outlining measures individuals must undergo to legally change their gender on their official documents,nor is there clarity about who may qualify as a “Hijra”.

A 2013 survey by the Bangladesh's Ministry of Social Welfare showed that, there are 10,000 registered hijras in the country.But some trans activists argued that the actual number of hijras is more than 10,000. In December 2014, the Ministry of Social Welfare invited hijras for the governmental jobs. Some hijras applied for governmental jobs (many of them were trans woman). But later they were humiliated by Social Welfare Department officials during the initial interviews, which were conducted in December 2014. Many reported that they were harassed & asked inappropriate questions about their gender identity & sex life. In January 2015 the health ministry issued a memorandum requesting that “necessary steps are taken to identify authentic intersexual by conducting a thorough medical check-up.” In June 2015, the dozen hijras who were selected from the initial interviews were examined in a government hospital. During the medical examinations, physicians ordered non-medical hospital staff such as custodians to touch their genitals, while groups of staff and other patients observed and jeered — sometimes in private rooms, sometimes in public spaces. Eventually they were identified as Male by doctors. Thus, they lost their jobs. In addition, their photos were published in the newspaper with their real names. Some hijras reported that publication of the photos sparked increased harassment from the general public and economic hardship for hijra individuals.

In July 2015, a hijra named Labannya witnessed the murder of a secular blogger, and helped in the arrest of the criminals. For Labannya's bravery Bangladeshi government announced plans to recruit and enlist hijras as ''Traffic Police.'' In April 2019, Bangladesh allowed the "hijras" to vote under their third gender identity.In that same year, Bangladesh opened its first Islamic school for Hijras. More than 150 students were initially expected to study Islamic and vocational subjects for free.

Hijras in Nepal

A landmark 2007 ruling by Nepal’s Supreme Court ordered the government to end discriminatory practices against the estimated 350,000 people who make up the LGBTQ+ community & paved the way for equal rights legislation. Nepal became the first south asian country to decriminalize colonial penal code section 377. At that same year, Nepal legally recognized Hijra & Methi community as third gender. In 2011 Nepal added third gender category to it national census. However, hijras faced difficulties to change their name & gender.

Since 2015, Nepal authorized a third gender category ''Others'' for passport holders. LGBTQI+ Nepali activists have criticized this step of goverment. Activists advocated for recognition of one's self-identified gender, instead of gender trinary. In 2019, trans activist Rukshana Kapali took an open stand against labeling herself as "third gender". She has taken legal steps to amend her gender identity to "female". On 31 October of 2021, 29 LGBTQ+ organizations, 2 federations and others have collectively proposed a bill regarding gender identity.

List of notable hijras:

Shabnam Mausi - South Asia first hijra & intersex politician

Laxmi Narayan Tripathi - Hijra & LGBTQ+ rights activist

Joya Sikder - Transgender rights activist. She is a pioneer of activist of hijra rights in Bangladesh

Pinky Sikder

Sanam Fakhir - First Pakistani hijra candidate to contest in election

Lubna lal

Parboty Hijra

Boby Hijra/Bobby Hijra

Salma Sheikh

Rani Chaudhury

Sammi Hijra

Khushi Sheikh

Grace Banu

Gauri Sawant

Zoya Khan

Alina Khan

Shehzadi Rai

Bindiya Rana

Almas Boby

Rimal Ali

Maya Jaffer

Zia

[katriniac]

IkeVamp OC Bio

Meet Katarina - Half human, half succubus.

All you see is a gorgeous woman with a big ol' tote bag of yarn and knitting needles. The horns and wings? She keeps those invisible. She decided to come back in time with le Comte and leave the 1980s because she couldn't stand all the synthetic fabric (No, really! That's the real reason! I promise it makes sense, LOL 😅)

Name: Katarina Koser

Gender: female

Race/Birthplace/Planet: Human female with Succubus bloodline, Hungary (ancestral home in Kiskunsagi Forest), Earth, 1890s

Current Home: Northern Italy, 1980s (but then she travels back in time with le Comte to 1890s Paris!)

Age (and how long does your race usually live?): 80-ish now. Lifespan varies. Because of her succubus lineage, the females of her family live much longer than humans, and therefore age more slowly. But they are not immortal. Their appearance will depend on the volume of life-force they recently absorbed. Some can retain the look of a young adult their entire life if they regularly take in adequate energy. They can always de-age from any elderly appearance if enough life-force is consumed, but they can never look younger than when puberty first hit them.

Build: voluptuous hourglass

Height: 5’8"

Hair: Deep reddish-mahogany. Long to mid-back, with slight wave/curl.

Eyes: Gray

Most Treasured Possessions: Thimble used by her grandmother, red headscarf with embroidery done by all her relatives.

Family: Two aunts, a sister, many cousins. Probably has male relatives but knows nothing of their existence.

Friend: Her cousin Lucia in Italy/Austria/Slovenia

Romantic Relationship History: In a rebellious streak at 17 eloped with her sweetheart Rolf. A mistake at that age, but she was revolting against the matriarchal rule and the anti-male mentality of the family. Divorced him two years later. Only dallies with men now when she’s feeling the urge for sex. Has come to accept that falling in love will only result in grief since she will outlive any man she chooses to stay with. Besides, she doesn't really need or want a partner; independence suits her globe-trotting lifestyle. (See *Deepest Secret* below)

Education/Training: communally raised so her basics were taught in an unorthodox manner, but as she traveled to more developed countries she was able to supplement/improve her education. Has a Masters of Fine Arts (just don’t ask to see what decade her degree was issued! LOL)

Things They’ve Done: Documented hundreds of diagrams/patterns/instructions for weaving/knitting/crocheting/embroidery techniques which had previously only been passed down through generations through oral tradition. Traveled to almost every country in Europe and South America, plus several key places in the Mediterranean, India, and North America. All for the sake of collecting artifacts, stories, and samples of the oldest thread-work. Once used her powers of charm to get unprecedented access to the 70-meter-long historial Bayeux Tapestry in a French museum.

Goals They Have: Preserve fiber craft traditions before they are lost.

What Motivates Them: Finding alternative ways of collecting/storing life-force without resorting to the traditional method of seduction and sex. And then somehow bringing that method to her clan and other succubi. So far she has developed a method that involves collecting and binding extra life force into plaits or knots to be used like batteries.

Favorite Entertainment (music, books, pastimes, etc.) : traditional European and Slavic folk music, music you can dance to. Sometimes has classical music records playing in the background while she knits. Doesn't watch much TV or film. Books are usually lace/knitting diagrams or research for weaving techniques. Reads some poetry. Loves to look through photo albums from world travels.

Favorite Food/Beverage: Enjoys cooking with lots of garlic and butter. Loves to eat berries and stone fruits of any kind, but raspberries and apricots are her favorites. Enjoys red licorice. Though she prefers cooking to baking, she is very proud of how her Paska bread and Sachertorte usually turn out perfect.

Personality: Confident, thoughtful listener, creative problem-solver, thinks outside the box, can appreciate the time/thought/skill that went into any effort (enthusiastically applauds her colleagues’ projects regardless of the size/scope), feminine/graceful, talks with her hands, cosmopolitan/worldly, unintentionally sensual in her mannerisms (unless she is deliberately mindful of maintaining a closed-off vibe), patient, is more likely to dive into deep discussions of how someone arrived at a decision/idea rather than be interested in the final decision itself, loves to travel, likes to help (is a bit of a “fixer”), can watch birds and spiders for hours at a time, can be a bit of a skeptic if a man begins “mansplaining”.

Note: At first glance she may appear kind and gregarious, but if watched closely over time you will see that she rarely offers any personal or private opinions/stories. She is friendly, but she doesn’t make friends. Katarina can be very invested in a person without letting that person get too close. This is an unconscious habit she has perfected over the decades while needing to move on from a place before they are suspicious of her not aging.

Deepest Secrets: Because Katarina rarely uses her power of seduction, she is out of practice. While she can usually keep it from seeping out, there is no way to put a cap on it 100%. Which means sometimes she will get VERY good service at a hotel or restaurant without even trying to charm them. The comedy starts when she actually DOES attempt to use her power for non-sexual purposes, such as getting through International check points quickly or convincing a cop to waive a parking ticket. In those instances, her inexperience often results in TOO MUCH power being used and the men throwing themselves at her or escaping with embarrassment at their sudden and unexplained erection (both predicaments are counter-productive to her reason for charming them in the first place!). Though she prefers to collect and absorb life-force that has been cast-off rather than feed off of a living human, she can perform seduction well and gets the job done quickly. However, this means she doesn’t have much experience enjoying sex inside the parameters of an established relationship. To elaborate even further: Katarina can’t recall the last time she was ever pampered or treated like a queen in bed. She is usually the one in control; just once it would be nice to feel treasured, to lie back and enjoy sex without having it feel like work. But that would mean having a lover she has a trusting connection with. She can’t have a normal relationship because she will outlive them. …Unless she finds someone worth giving up her immortality for. She doesn’t really believe there’s anyone out there like that. But that doesn’t stop her from wishing and fantasizing.