Recently, the Indian PM inaugurated the Banjara Virasat Museum in Poharadevi at Washim, Maharashtra.
- The Prime Minister also paid floral tribute to the memorials of Banjara leaders Sant Sevalal Maharaj and Sant Ramrao Maharaj.
- He also played the Nangara, a key musical instrument of the Banjara culture.
About Banjara Virasat Museum
- Display at Museum: The museum features 13 galleries showcasing the community’s legacy through portraits of Banjara leaders, historical movements, and artefacts that depict their way of life.
- Aims:
- To safeguard the rich cultural heritage of the Banjara community.
- To establish Poharadevi as a prominent cultural and religious destination.
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- The Banjara community, often referred to as Gypsies, has a rich and vibrant history rooted in nomadic traditions.
- Derived from the words “Vanaj“ (to trade) and “Jara” (to travel), their nomadic lifestyle played a crucial role in connecting villages and providing essential supply.
- Geographical Spread: The Banjara community has deep roots in Rajasthan and is now spread across various states, known by different names such as Lambada or Lambadi in Andhra Pradesh, Lambani in Karnataka, Gwar or Gwaraiya in Rajasthan, and more.
- Language: Their unique language, “Gorboli” or “Gor mati Boli,” falls under the Indo-Aryan language category.
Nangara
The nangara is a unique and essential musical instrument closely associated with the Banjara community
- Material: Nangaras can be made from various materials, including wood, metal, or even goat or buffalo skin.
- Cultural Significance: It is often played during celebrations, rituals, and social gatherings of the Banjara Community.
- Accompaniment: The nangara is often used to accompany singing, dancing, and storytelling.
- Symbol of Identity: The nangara serves as a symbol of Banjara identity and heritage. It is a reminder of their nomadic lifestyle and rich cultural traditions
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Historical Significance
- Resistance Against British Rule: The Banjara community played a significant role in resisting British attempts to seize their lands and force them into labour.
- Legal Challenges: Despite their resistance, the Banjara community faced legal challenges, being listed under the Criminal Tribes Act in 1871 They were eventually denotified in the 1950s.
- But were later listed under the Habitual Offenders Act in 1952.
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Sant Sevalal Maharaj
- Birth and Origin: Born on February 15, 1739, in Surgondankoppa, Karnataka, Sant Sevalal Maharaj was a prominent figure in the Banjara community.
- Social Reformer and Spiritual Teacher: He is revered as a social reformer and spiritual teacher who played a crucial role in uplifting the Banjara community.
- Widespread Influence: With a following of around 10-12 crore Banjara people across India, his teachings and influence extended far and wide.
- Serving Nomadic Tribes: Sant Sevalal Maharaj travelled extensively with his Ladeniya Troup to serve forest dwellers and nomadic tribes.
- Ayurveda and Naturopathy Expertise: His knowledge of Ayurveda and Naturopathy helped dispel myths and superstitions, leading to reforms in tribal lifestyles.
- Impact on Banjara Community: The Banjara community, settled across various states with different names, abandoned their nomadic lifestyle and established permanent settlements called Tandas, influenced by Sant Sevalal Maharaj’s teachings.
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October 7, 2024
