Bhavai
AI-drafted · awaiting admin review
A travelling folk theatre of Gujarat that mixes music, dance, comedy and social satire, traditionally performed in honour of the Goddess Amba.
Folk theatreWhere: Gujarat (also parts of Rajasthan)Occasion: Navratri and village fairs; performances usually at night in an open space
| Performed by | Troupes of men from the traditional Bhavai performing communities, with men also playing women's roles |
|---|---|
| Costume | Colourful costumes and make-up for each character, called a vesh |
| Music and instruments | The bhungal (long copper trumpet), tabla or pakhawaj, cymbals and harmonium, with songs and verses |
How it is performed
- The play opens with a prayer to Ganesha and Amba.
- The ranglo (jester) and other characters enter one by one, introduced by song and dance.
- Each vesh is a short play on a story, a social issue or village life, told through song, dialogue and comedy.
- Performances run late into the night, with the audience sitting around the open stage.
Significance
According to tradition, the 14th-century poet Asait Thakar wrote the first veshas. Bhavai entertained and taught villagers, and it influenced modern Gujarati theatre.