Kavant is a small town nestled in the district of Chota Udepur and is 80 kms from Baroda. Being a predominantly Tribal area with a large population of Bhils and Rathwas, it is an interesting place for anyone interested in exploring the varied tribal life in our country. The town comes alive when two days after the festival of colors – Holi, the Gher Festival takes place.
The word “Gher” refers to the Gherasyas – the Rathwa men who come out in their finery with an intent to woo a life partner. Tradition has it that a young man sees a girl of his dreams and offers her a paan and if she accepts it, it indicates that she has reciprocated her interest and is willing to accept the man as her life partner. An interesting and very simple way for young people to find their soul mates as against the common custom of arranged marriages in our country.
It is good to arrive early to see how things warm up for the day and before the hordes of city folks arrive. The young Bhils painted black and armed with bows and arrows – the weapons of a bygone era, will dance before you with an expectation of being rewarded monetarily. So, you do need to carry enough notes of Rs. 10/- On the other hand, the Rathwas will come out in a procession with traditional trumpets heralding their arrival and very clad in colourful attire.
A word of caution here- avoid carrying too much cash or valuables. With the surging crowds around midday, there are pickpockets eyeing the unsuspecting tourist with an aim of making hay. However, that being the only concern, it is an exciting experience to enjoy the music, dance. clothes and above all the joie de vivre of a festival.
For photographers or anyone interested in documenting a festival or just a curious onlooker, it’s a unique experience that showcases the colours, traditions and customs of our unique tribes. So do go ahead and mark your diaries for the season of Holi 2023!
