મણીયારો – The Martial Ras of Saurashtra
A Warrior’s Ras Born of Pride & Power
Rooted in the valorous soil of Saurashtra, Maniyaro is more than just a folk dance – it’s an expression of courage, discipline, and heritage. Traditionally performed by the Mer community, a brave and spirited group known for their warrior legacy, Maniyaro symbolizes the blend of military training and cultural rhythm.
Origin & Warrior Legacy
• Community: The dance originates from the Mer tribe, a proud and battle-ready community of Saurashtra.
• In historic times, Mer warriors stood at the frontline during wars.
• During times of truce, they would practice warfare using shield and sword – and this rehearsal slowly evolved into the Maniyaro Ras.
• When British officers inspected villages, the warriors replaced their weapons with dandiyas and performed the same vigorous movements in dance form — thus giving birth to Maniyaro as we know it.
Dance Structure & Rhythm
- Earlier performed in 5.5 beats (સાડા પાંચ માત્રા), then 4.5, and today commonly in 4 beats (ચાર માત્રા).
- Begins with a slow, intense rhythm, gradually accelerating into fast, energetic circular movements.
- Features sharp footwork, strong hand gestures, and coordinated formations.
- The performance is not just artistic — it showcases mental discipline and physical strength.
Performance Highlights
- Dance performed with dandiyas as symbolic weapons.
- Starts in extremely slow tempo (વિલંબિત), then transitions into drut laya (fast tempo), eventually reaching chalat – a flowing rhythmic motion.
- Typically performed by male dancers, highlighting manliness, strength, and unity.
- Evokes the spirit of valor, unity, and martial training.
Musical Elements
- Instruments used: Dhol, Shehnai, Nagara, and traditional percussion.
- Occasionally accompanied by warrior chants or shlokas, but mostly driven by intense rhythmic beats.
- The music mirrors the progression of a warrior – from calm readiness to the heat of battle.
Cultural Relevance
- Practiced mainly in Saurashtra villages like Porbandar, Junagadh, and Rajkot region.
- Still performed during festivals, village fairs (melas), and cultural shows.
- Considered a symbol of Mer identity and pride.
- Popular in folk dance festivals, independence day celebrations, and cultural parades representing Gujarat’s brave past.
Witness the Power of Maniyaro
Book Maniyaro Ras Performance for Your Event
Celebrate Gujarat’s fearless past with a live Maniyaro dance performance — ideal for heritage events, cultural festivals, or school showcases.
✔️ Authentic Ras with Traditional Attire
✔️ Trained Folk Artists from Mer Community
✔️ Performance Duration: 15–30 minutes
✔️ Contact Now for Bookings Across Gujarat & India
Contacts
Address
GUJARAT LOKKALA FOUNDATION, 2 PROFESSORS COLONY, NAVRANGPURA, AHMEDABAD, GJ01, GJ, 380009
Phone
+91- 90160 31743
Mail ID
info@gujaratlokkala.org