Rajasthan has achieved a historic milestone under the Ghoomar Festival-2025, where 6,100 women simultaneously presented the Ghoomar dance across all seven divisions of the state, setting a new record. This magnificent event, held on Wednesday, not only captivated local audiences but also earned a place in the Asia Book of Records. Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari was presented with the certificate by the Asia Book of Records for this extraordinary feat, marking a moment of immense pride for the state. This initiative was undertaken with the objective of establishing Rajasthan's rich cultural heritage, particularly the Ghoomar dance, on national and international platforms, much like Gujarat's Garba has gained global recognition. This massive undertaking once again demonstrated Rajasthan's unwavering commitment to preserving and celebrating its traditions and art forms.
Grand Inauguration of the Ghoomar Festival and its Widespread Execution
The state-level program of the Ghoomar Festival commenced at 4:30 PM at the Football Ground of Vidyadhar Nagar Stadium in Jaipur, the state capital. Deputy CM Diya Kumari herself inaugurated this grand event by playing a 'nagada' (drum), symbolizing the dignity and enthusiasm of the program. With the rhythmic beats of the nagada, the entire stadium resonated with traditional Ghoomar songs and dances, creating an electrifying atmosphere, while on this occasion, thousands of women, adorned in colorful traditional Rajputi attire, were present, their energy and excitement palpable. This event wasn't merely a dance performance but a vibrant celebration of Rajasthan's soul and its living culture. Organizing such a large-scale event simultaneously across the entire state was a significant challenge, successfully executed through extensive coordination and planning involving local administration, cultural organizations, and volunteers, while this collective effort showcased the unity and cultural strength of Rajasthan.
Spectacular Performance by 1500 Women in Jaipur and a Unique Fusion
In the main event held in Jaipur, approximately 1500 women showcased the Ghoomar dance. Dressed in vibrant Rajputi costumes, these women performed the most ancient style of Ghoomar to traditional Rajasthani folk songs such as "Ek Baar Ho Piya Jaipur Shehar Padhar Jo... ". Their synchronized movements, traditional attire, and radiant smiles mesmerized the audience, while every step of the Ghoomar clearly reflected Rajasthan's glorious tradition and artistic brilliance. A special highlight of the event was the performance by girls from the Fencing Association, who combined Ghoomar dance with sword fighting. This unique fusion symbolized Rajasthan's valorous traditions and artistic prowess, adding a new dimension to the program. The girls' skillful presentation of both sword fighting and Ghoomar simultaneously was a testament to their talent and rigorous training. Jaipur's performance served as the focal point of the entire festival, inspiring participants from other divisions and generating a wave of positive energy across the state.
300 Women Perform Ghoomar with Unique Jewelry in Ajmer
In Ajmer, 300 women also performed Ghoomar simultaneously, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the city, while at the event held at Gandhi Ground in Ajmer, participants, dressed in their traditional attire, gave a captivating Ghoomar performance. Many female teachers from government schools actively participated in this event, demonstrating the widespread appeal of the Ghoomar festival across all segments of society. These educators took time out of their busy schedules to participate in this cultural event, showcasing their dedication to their culture, while pooja Kanwar, a resident of Adarsh Nagar, became a special attraction at the Ajmer program. Pooja arrived to perform Ghoomar wearing jewelry worth approximately 50 lakh rupees. She mentioned that she performed the Ghoomar dance wearing about half a kilo of jewelry, and it took her about an hour and a half to get ready and adorn herself from head to toe. Pooja expressed her joy at performing on stage, highlighting her deep love and dedication to Rajasthani. Culture through this unique endeavor, and illustrating how individuals make personal efforts to keep their traditions alive.
Udaipur Witnesses 2 Hours of Ghoomar Magic and the Inspiration of a Divyang Girl
The Ghoomar Festival also saw a magnificent celebration at Gandhi Ground in Udaipur. Here, 300 women, adorned in colorful Rajputi attire, performed Ghoomar dance continuously for about 2 hours. Their captivating performances to Rajasthani folk songs brought culture and art to life. The coordination and energy of the women dancing in groups were remarkable. The rhythmic sway of their feet and the graceful movements of their hands, set to traditional music, presented an exquisite display of Rajasthani folk art, while another touching moment during the program was when Divyang (differently-abled) girl Diya Shrimali, dressed in traditional attire, enchanted everyone with her performance. Her participation conveyed the powerful message that art and culture know no boundaries, and every individual can contribute according to their abilities. Diya's performance inspired all those present and delivered a strong message of inclusivity. On this occasion, MP Mannalal Rawat stated that Ghoomar is the identity of Rajasthan, and this program would infuse new energy into folk culture. He emphasized the importance of such events in preserving and promoting. The state's cultural heritage and connecting new generations to their roots.
Focus on Increasing Public Participation in Cultural Programs and the Importance of Tourism
Deputy CM Diya Kumari, on this occasion, reiterated that Ghoomar is the. Identity of Rajasthan, and this program would infuse new energy into folk culture. She also emphasized that the state government is focusing on increasing public participation in cultural programs and strengthening tourism potential. Her statement clearly outlines the direction of the state's cultural policies, which aim not only to keep traditional art forms alive but also to link them with economic development through tourism, while promoting public participation instills a sense of pride in local communities about their culture, encouraging them to play an active role in its preservation and promotion. This approach doesn't limit cultural heritage to mere performance but develops it as a living tradition in which every citizen can play a role. Strengthening tourism means promoting such events globally, attracting more tourists to Rajasthan to experience its rich culture, thereby benefiting the local economy and creating sustainable cultural practices.
Initiatives to Boost Tourism and the Success of the Extensive Event
Tourism Commissioner Rukmani Riyar informed that this year, the Ghoomar Festival was organized simultaneously in all seven divisions of the state – Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ajmer, Udaipur, Bikaner, Kota, and Bharatpur. This was a coordinated effort aimed at spreading cultural awareness across the entire state at once, while preparations for such an extensive event began months in advance, involving coordination between various departments, security arrangements, participant registration, and training. According to the department, registrations for the Ghoomar Festival exceeded expectations in several divisions this year, indicating the immense enthusiasm people have for their culture. This enthusiasm wasn't only evident among women but also supported by their families and communities. This step by the tourism department will play a crucial role in boosting state tourism, as such cultural events attract tourists and offer them an opportunity to experience Rajasthan's rich heritage firsthand, thereby contributing to the local economy. The event will help establish Rajasthan as a premier cultural tourism destination.
Encouragement Through Awards and Future Inspiration
To encourage participants, awards were also arranged at the Ghoomar Festival. Due to higher registrations in Jaipur and Jodhpur, these two divisions were placed in the high-category award list. A total prize money of 2 lakh 34 thousand rupees was distributed in various categories such as Best Group Dance, Best Costume, Best Jewelry, Best Synchronizing, and Best Choreography. This prize money was intended to honor the enthusiasm and hard work of the participants who contributed to the success of this grand event. For the remaining 5 divisions, a total of 1 lakh 4 thousand rupees in awards was allocated. These awards not only motivated the participants but also encouraged more people to take part in such events in the future. This initiative demonstrates the state government's commitment to the preservation and promotion of its cultural heritage, ensuring that Rajasthan's folk arts remain vibrant for future generations. Such events foster cultural exchange and strengthen the state's identity on a broader scale.
