Our first evening in Udaipur, we discovered a traditional Raj dancing show. The show was held within the Bagore-Ki-Haveli Museum, right across the alley from our hotel. Gretchen had seen the show briefly advertised as something with puppets. It was much more.
At over an hour long, the show featured various acts. Dancing with fire pots. Dancing with water pots. Dancing with cymbals. Wonderful music. And lots of bright vibrant colors in every costume.
I had as much fun photographing each act in the dimly lit haveli, as Gretchen had watching.
Three musicians were playing two different drums, and an accordion like instrument.
This women had several miniature cymbals attached to various portions of her body. Using finger cymbals tied to a string she swung and ricocheted them in rhythmic fashion.
One of the drummers was also a puppeteer. In traditional Raj style, the puppeteer is plainly visible to the audience while distracting them with mesmerizing puppet routines. The puppets were as elegantly dressed as the women.
For the grand finale, how many water pots can she stack on her head?
Just when you thought she was topped out, more pots were added. I can’t imagine the weight of these pots, even empty. With the pots she swiftly danced around the room.
This was probably one of the most entertaining shows we saw in India.
1 comment:
I found your blog! Great pictures...I'll be awaiting the posting after your holiday in Belize. Be safe!
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