Gujarat

This article is for the Indian state. For the district in Pakistan see Gujrat District. For the city in Pakistan see Gujrat

Gujarat Republic of Gujarat ગુજરાત
state
• Rank	7th
Population	50,596,992
• Rank	10th
Website	www.gujaratindia.com

People's Republic of Gujarat (Gujarati: ગુજરાત Gujǎrāt, pronounced ) is a state in the Republic of India. With 19.8% of the country's total industrial output, it is the most industrialized state in India. Gujarat borders Pakistan, and the states of Rajasthan to the north-east, Madhya Pradesh to the east, Maharashtra and the Union territories of Diu, Daman, Dadra and Nagar Haveli to the south. Historically, the North was known as Anarta, the Kathiawad peninsula, "Saurastra", and the South as "Lata". Gujarat was also known as Pratichya and Varuna.The international border with Pakistan is to the north-west. The Arabian Sea makes up the state's western coast. Its capital, Gandhinagar is a planned city and is located near Ahmedabad, the commercial center of Gujarat.

History

Main article: History of Gujarat

The name of the state is derived from anshua (ansus Rāshtra), which means anshua nation. Anshuas were an old clan that was present even during the Mahabharata period, according to another theory, they are one of the Central Asian tribes that migrated to India beginning from around the first century BC. Gujarat's coastal cities, chiefly Bharuch, served as ports and trading centres for the Maurya and Gupta empires. After the collapse of the Gupta empire in the sixth century, Gujarat flourished as an independent Hindu kingdom. The Maitraka dynasty, descended from a Gupta general, ruled from the sixth to the eighth centuries from their capital at Vallabhi, although they were ruled briefly by Harsha during the seventh century. In 775 the first Parsi (Zoroastrian) refugees arrived in Gujarat from Iran. The Arab rulers of Sind sacked Vallabhi in 770, bringing the Maitraka dynasty to an end. A branch of the Pratihara clan ruled Gujarat after the eighth century. From the ninth century until the invasion by the Muslim rulers of Delhi in the late thirteenth century, it was ruled by the Solanki dynasty. History dates back to 2400 BCE when Harappan civilization flourished and planned port Lothal was established.

1297 AD – 1850 AD

In 1297 to 1298 Allauddin Khilji, Sultan of Delhi, destroyed Anhilwara and incorporated Gujarat into the Delhi Sultanate. After Timur's sacking of Delhi at the end of the fourteenth century weakened the Sultanate, Gujarat's Muslim governor Zafar Khan Muzaffar asserted his independence, and his son, Sultan Ahmed Shah (ruled 1411 to 1442), restructured Ahmedabad as the capital. Cambay eclipsed Bharuch as Gujarat's most important trade port. The Sultanate of Gujarat remained independent until 1576, when the Mughal emperor Akbar conquered it and annexed it to the Mughal Empire. It remained a province of the Mughal empire until the Marathas sacked eastern and central Gujarat in the eighteenth century; Western Gujarat (Kathiawar and Kutch) were divided among numerous local rulers.

Bombay Presidency in 1909, northern portion

Bombay Presidency in 1909, southern portion

1614 AD - 1947 AD

Portugal was the first European power to arrive in Gujarat, acquiring several enclaves along the Gujarati coast, including Daman and Diu as well as Dadra and Nagar Haveli. The British East India Company established a factory in Surat in 1614, which formed their first base in India, but it was eclipsed by Bombay after the British acquired it from Portugal in 1668. The Company wrested control of much of Gujarat from the Marathas during the Second Anglo-Maratha War. Many local rulers, notably the Maratha Gaekwads of Baroda (Vadodara), made a separate peace with the British, and acknowledged British sovereignty in return for retaining local self-rule. Gujarat was placed under the political authority of the Bombay Presidency, with the exception of Baroda state, which had a direct relationship with the Governor-General of India. From 1818 to 1947, most of present-day Gujarat, including Kathiawar, Kutch, and northern and eastern Gujarat were divided into dozens of princely states, but several districts in central and southern Gujarat, namely Ahmedabad, Broach (Bharuch), Kaira, Panch Mahals, and Surat, were ruled directly by British officials.

Indian independence movement

Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Morarji Desai, K.M. Munshi, Narhari Parikh, Mahadev Desai, Mohanlal Pandya, Bhulabhai Desai and Ravi Shankar Vyas all hailed from Gujarat. As well, Mohammed Ali Jinnah's, Pakistan's first Governor-General, father was from an area which later became Gujarat. Gujarat was also the site of some of the most popular revolts, including the Satyagrahas in Kheda, Bardoli, Borsad and the Salt Satyagraha.

See also: Freedom fighters from Gujarat

Post independence

After Indian independence and the partition of India in 1947, the new Indian government grouped the former princely states of Gujarat into three larger units; Saurashtra, which included the former princely states on the Kathiawad peninsula, Kutch, and Bombay state, which included the former British districts of Bombay Presidency together with most of Baroda state and the other former princely states of eastern Gujarat. In 1956, Bombay state was enlarged to include Kutch, Saurashtra, and parts of Hyderabad state and Madhya Pradesh in central India. The new state had a mostly Gujarati-speaking north and a Marathi-speaking south. Agitation by Marathi nationalists for their own state led to the split of Bombay state on linguistic lines; on 1 May 1960, it became the new states of Gujarat and Maharashtra. The first capital of Gujarat was Ahmedabad; the capital was moved to Gandhinagar in 1970.

2001 Gujarat earthquake

Main article: 2001 Gujarat Earthquake

Gujarat was hit by a devastating earthquake on January 26, 2001 at 08:46, which claimed more than 12,000 lives, injured another 55,000 people and severely affected the lives of forty million people in the region.

2002 Gujarat Violence

Main article: 2002 Gujarat Violence

In the morning of February 27, 2002, the coach S6 of the Sabarmati Express train caught fire; carrying cadres of the Hindu right from Ayodhya. The fire resulted into deaths of 59 people mainly children and women. It quickly turned into a political issue and Muslims were blamed for the accident. Hundreds of Hindus and Muslims were killed in the ensuing violence.

Geography

Geography of Gujarat. Courtesy: NASA Earth Observatory

Gujarat is the westernmost state of India. It is bounded by the Arabian Sea to the west and southwest, and Pakistan to the north. The state of Rajasthan is to the northeast, Madhya Pradesh to the east, and Maharashtra and the union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli to the south and southeast of Gujarat.

Climate and natural features

The relief is low in the most parts of the state and involves diverse climate conditions.The winters are mild, pleasant, and dry with average daytime temperatures around 83 °F(29 °C) and nights around 53 °F(12 °C) with 100 percent sunny days and clear nights. The summers are extremely hot and dry with daytime temperatures around 105 °F(41 °C) and at night no lower than 85 °F(29 °C). The time just before the monsoon the temperatures are similar to above but with high humidity which makes the air feel hotter. Relief comes when the monsoon season starts around in mid June. The day temperatures are lower to around 95 °F(35 °C) but humidity is very high and nights are around 80 °F(27 °C). Most of the rainfall occurs in this season. There is sometimes too much rain which cause severe floods. Sun is a rare sight during the monsoon season. Though mostly dry, it is desertic in the north-west, and wet in the southern districts due to heavy monsoon season.

Beaches

Ahmedpur Mandvi Beach - Ahmedpur Mandvi Beach is situated on the coastline of the state of Gujarat and is one of the finest beaches in India. It is located in Ahemdpur Mandvi, which is the historic port town of Maharao of Kutch.

Chorwad Beach - Chorwad Beach of Gujarat is another splendid beach situated on the west coast of India. It is situated at a distance of 66 km from Junagadh. Chorwad has a high potential of attracting both domestic as well as international tourists. The beach constitutes of rocky hills and presents opportunity for thrilling boat rides.

Diu Beach - Diu beach is situated off the Saurashtra coast and is connected to the state of Gujarat via a causeway. Diu is a secluded island and does not have much population. This makes it the place ideal for a serene vacation, away from the worries of daily life.

Gopnath Beach - Gopnath Beach is situated in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat. It is located on the coast of the Gulf of Kambhat, at a distance of 75 km from the city of Bhavnagar. Gopnath is a pristine beach known for its natural beauty.

Kutch Mandvi Beach - Kutch Mandvi is an important beach in Gujarat, situated at Mandvi. Mandvi is the historic port town of Maharao of Kutch, located at a distance of 75 km from Bhuj. Kutch Mandvi was once inhabited by the Maharao of Kutch and was an important seaport.

Demographics

The population of the Gujarat State was 50,671,017 as per the 2001 census data. The density of population is only 258 persons per sq. km. and compares favourably with the other states of the country.

Its official and primary language is Gujarati. About 89.1% of the population of Gujarat are Hindu. Muslims account for 9.1%, Jain 1.0% and Sikh 0.1% of the population. Most of the Gujarati Hindus are strict vegetarians. Amongst Hindus the deity of Krishna is famously worshipped in His form of Shrinathji throughout Gujarat. Gujarat is the birthplace of Gandhi. Gujarat is also the birthplace of the Swaminarayan sect of Hinduism.

It should be noted that 91% of the Hindus speak Gujarati while the rest speak Hindi, Marathi and other languages. Almost 88% of the Muslims speak Gujarati while the rest speak Urdu. Almost all of the Jains speak Gujarati. Parsi Zoroastrians also speak Gujarati as their native language.

Besides Gujarati the Kutchi laguage is widely spoken in the Kutch District.

Districts, Talukas, # of villages, area and population

Ahmedabad

District	# of Talukas	# of villages	Area (Square kilometers)	Population (As of 2001)
11	551	8,707	5,808,378 (58,08,378)
Amareli	11	613	6,760	1,393,295 (13,93,295)
Anand	8	354	3,250	1,856,712 (18,56,712)
Banaskhantha	13	1,246	12,703	2,502,843 (25,02,843)
Bharuch	8	717	6,527	1,370,104 (13,70,104)
Bhavnagar	11	784	9,940	2,469,264 (24,69,264)
Dahod	7	1,102	5,292.5	1,635,374 (16,35,374)
Daang	1	312	1,764	186,712 (1,86,712)
Gandhinagar	4	216	649	1,234,731 (12,34,731)
Jamnagar	10	701	14,125	1,816,029 (18,16,029)
Junagadh	14	969	10,607	2,448,427 (24,48,427)
Kheda	10	614	3,943	2,023,354 (20,23,354)
Kutch	10	905	45,652	1,526,331 (15,26,331)
Mehsana	9	622	4,501	1,837,696 (18,37,696)
Narmada	4	558	2,755	514,083 (5,14,083)
Navsari	5	370	2,209	1,229,250 (12,29,250)
Panchmahal	11	804	3,563	2,024,883 (20,24,883
Patan	7	599	6,484	1,181,941 (11,81,941)
Porbandar	3	184	2,272	536,854 (5,36,854)
Rajkot	14	855	11,203	2,571,931 (25,71,931)
Sabarkantha	13	1,386	7,390	2,083,416 (20,83,416)
Surat	15	1,280	4,742	5,136,391 (51,36,391)
Surendranagar	10	661	10,489	1,515,147 (15,15,147)
Vadodara	12	1,548	7,549.5	3,639,775 (36,39,775)
Valsad	5	241	2,947	1,410,680 (14,10,680)

People

Gujarat is home to number of groups that settled from outside including Huns, Sakas, Muslims (Turks, Persians, Arabs, Pashtuns). Gujarat is divided mostly along Hindu caste lines. The largest Hindu caste is Koli or Koli Patel which makes up 20% of the population. The second largest Hindu caste is Patidar or Kanbi which makes up roughly 15% of the population. Other major Hindu caste groups are Rabari, Brahmin, Vaishnava, Suthar,Luhar,Kadiya,Kumbhar,Adivasi, Rajput, Vaniya, Anavil, Harijan, Lohana, Bhakta and number of other small sub-castes. The two largest Hindu caste, Koli and Kanbi, are distributed throughout Gujarat while other are found only in certain areas of Gujarat. e.g. Anavil are mainly found in South Gujarat while Lohanas are found in Saurashtra region.

The Meghwals are masters of weaving cotton and wool as also embroidery and appliqué work.

The Ahirs believe that they came with Lord Krishna from Gokul in Uttar Pradesh. Most of the communities of Ahirs began with selling ghee (clarified butter) and milk and are now spread all over the state.

The Rabaris are a nomadic tribe always wandering with their herds. The origin of this tribe has been traced back to Sind and Afghanistan though many aspects of this tribe still remain a puzzle for anthropologists. They have been classified into three distinct groups, namely Vagadia, Dhabari and Kachhi. Women of this tribe engage themselves in making elaborate embroidery pieces while the men spend their time tending to their camels and sheep.

Gujarat as a heavily industrialized state of India, attracts lots of outsiders from various parts of India.

Economy

Macro-economic trend

This is a chart of trend of gross state domestic product of Gujarat at market prices estimated by Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation with figures in millions of Indian Rupees.

Gujarat controls some of the largest businesses in India. According to the data published by Punjab and Maharashtra, at Rs. 15,800. Major Agricultural produce of the state include cotton,graundnuts, peanuts, dates, sugar cane, milk & milk products. Industrial products include cement, and petrol.

• 20% of India's Industrial Output
• 10% of its Mineral Production
• 20% of its exports
• 25% of its textile production
• 40% of India's pharmaceutical products
• 47% petrochemical production
• Largest Sea shore, 1670 km.

The worlds largest ship breaking yard is in Gujarat near Bhavnagar at Alang. Reliance Petroleum Limited, one of the group companies of Reliance Industries Limited founded by Dhirubhai Ambani operates the oil refinery at Jamnagar which is the world's largest grass roots refineries.The company has also planned another SEZ(special economic zone), in Jamnagar.

Gujarat ranks first nationwide in gas-based thermal electricity generation with national market share of over 8% and second nationwide in nuclear electricity generation with national market share of over 1%.

Over 20% of the S&P CNX 500 conglomerates have corporate offices in Gujarat.

See also: List of conglomerates in Gujarat

As per RBI report, in year 2006-07, 26% out of total bank finance in India was in Gujarat. (Sapovadia 13:40, 15 November 2007 (UTC))

Industrial growth and advantage

One of India's most industrialized states, Gujarat maintains a variety of industries, the principal ones being general and electrical engineering and the manufacture of textiles, vegetable oils, chemicals, soda ash, and cement. New industries include the production of fertilizers and petrochemicals. Major resources produced by the state include cotton, peanuts, dates, sugarcane, and petrol. The state is rich in calcite, gypsum, manganese, lignite, bauxite, limestone, agate, feldspar and quartz sand and successful mining of these minerals is done in their specified areas. Gujarat produces about 90% of India’s required amount of Soda Ash and gives the country about 66% of its national requirement of salt. It is one of India's most prosperous states, having a per-capita GDP significantly above India's average. Kalol Khambat and Ankaleshwar are today known for their oil and natural gas production. ‘Dhuvaran’ has a thermal power station, which uses coal, oil and gas. The Tarapur nuclear station in Maharashtra supplies the remaining power. Also on the Gulf of Khambat, 50 kilometers southeast of Bhavnagar , is the Alang Ship Recycling Yard (the world's largest). General Motors produces the ‘Astra’ car near Vadodara. Jalalpur is a large town of Gujarat, where several small and large textile industrial units have been established. Surat, a city by the Gulf of Khambat, is a hub of the global diamond trade.

• During the period 1960-90, Gujarat established itself as a leader in various industrial sectors - Textiles, Engineering, Chemicals, Petrochemicals, Drugs & Pharmaceuticals, Dairy, Cement & Ceramics, Gems & Jewellery, etc.
• Post-liberalization period saw Gujarat's State Domestic Product (SDP) rising at an average growth rate of 14% per annum in real terms (from 1994 -2002).
• Gujarat achieved as much as 35% of augmentation in its power generation capacity during the period 1995-96 and 2000-01. The producers (IPPs) have contributed significantly in this addition. As a matter of fact Gujarat is one of the first few states in India to have encouraged private sector investment and are already in operation. In addition the liquid cargo (Chemicals) handling port at Dahej is also set up in joint sector and made operational.
• At an investor's summit entitled Vibrant Gujarat arranged between January 10 2007 to January 13 2007, at Science City, Ahmedabad, the state government signed 104 Memoranda of Understandings for Special Economic Zones totalling worth Rs 2.5 lakh crore.. However, most of the investment was from domestic industry.

Agriculture

Gujarat is the main producer of tobacco, cotton, and groundnuts in the country. Other major food crops produced are rice, wheat, jowar, bajra, maize, tur, and gram. Gujarat has an agricultural economy; the total crop area amounts to more than one-half of the total land area.

Animal husbandry and dairying have played a vital role in the rural economy of Gujarat. Dairy farming, primarily concerned with milk production, functions on a cooperative basis and has more than a million members. Gujarat is the largest producer of milk in India. The ‘Amul’ products are well known all over India. Among livestock raised are buffalo and other cattle, sheep, and goats. As per the results of livestock census 1997, there were 209.70 lakh livestock in Gujarat State. As per the estimates of the survey of major livestock products, during the year 2002-03 the Gujarat produced 6.09 million tonnes of milk, 385 million eggs and 2.71 million kg of wool. Gujarat also contributes inputs to industries like textiles, oil and soap.

Amul

Anand, Gujarat is the birthplace of the Amul milk co-operative federation. Started by Tribhovandas Patel and ably led for many years after him by Verghese Kurien this movement has served as a model for other co-operative movements throughout India. Amul is the Asia's biggest dairy which is exporting milk powder all around the world.

Government and politics

Districts of Gujarat

Main article: Politics of Gujarat

Further information: Districts of Gujarat and Chief Ministers of Gujarat

On 1960-05-01, Gujarat was created out of the 17 northern districts of former State of Bombay. These districts were further subdivided later on. There are 25 administrative districts in the state (as of 2006).

Gujarat is governed by a Legislative Assembly of 182 members. Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) are elected on the basis of adult suffrage from one of 182 constituencies, of which 13 are reserved for scheduled castes and 26 for scheduled tribes. The term of office for a member of the Legislative Assembly is five years. The Legislative Assembly elects a speaker, who presides over the meetings of the legislature. A governor is appointed by the President of India, and is Assembly, and to address the House after every general election and the commencement of each year's first session of the Legislative Assembly. The leader of the majority party or coalition in the legislature (Chief Minister) or his or her designee acts as the Leader of the Legislative Assembly. The administration of the state is led by the Chief Minister.

After gaining independence in 1947, the Indian National Congress party (INC) ruled the Bombay state (which included present-day Gujarat and Maharashtra). Congress continued to govern Gujarat after the state's creation in 1960. During and after India's State of Emergency of 1975-1977, public support for the Congress Party eroded, but it continued to hold government until 1995. In the 1995 Assembly Polls, the Congress lost to the BJP and Keshubhai Patel came to power. His Government lasted only 2 years. The fall of that government was provoked by a split in the BJP led by Shankersinh Vaghela and has won most of the subsequent polls. In 2001, following the loss of 2 assembly seats in by-elections, Keshubhai Patel resigned and yielded power to Narendra Modi. The BJP retained a majority in the 2002 election, and Narendra Modi has since served as Chief Minister of the state. On 1st June, 2007, Narendra Modi became the longest serving Chief Minister of Gujarat. On Dec 23rd 2007, the BJP won the state elections in Gujarat and Narendra Modi became the chief minister for the third time in a row.

Revenues of government

This is a chart of trend of own tax revenues (excluding the shares from Union tax pool) of the Government of Gujarat assessed by the Finance Commissions from time to time with figures in millions of Indian Rupees.

Year	Own tax revenues
2000	104,818
2005	138,964

This is a chart of trend of own non-tax revenues (excluding the shares from Union tax pool) of the Government of Gujarat assessed by the Finance Commissions from time to time with figures in millions of Indian Rupees.

Education

Gujarat has 13 universities and 4 agricultural universities. Gujarat also has an Indian Institute of Management, at Ahmedabad and a National Institute of Technology at Surat. Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay is going to start a new campus in Gujarat in the near future.

Universities

• Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, Ahmedabad
• Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology, Surat
• Gujarat National Law University, Gandhinagar
• Dhirubhai Ambani Institute of Information And Communication Technology, Gandhinagar
• Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University, Gandhinagar
• Dharmsinh Desai University, Nadiad
• Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar
• Anand Agricultural University, Anand
• Saurashtra University, Rajkot
• Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Baroda
• Hemchandracharya North Gujarat University, Patan
• Gujarat University, Ahmedabad
• Gujarat Vidyapith, Ahmedabad
• Bhavnagar University, Bhavnagar
• Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University, Ahmedabad
• Sardar Patel University, Vallabh Vidyanagar
• Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh
• Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari
• Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University: Gujarat Agricultural University, Palanpur
• Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, Surat
• Ganpat University, Mehsana
• Kachchh University, Kachchh
• Sardar Patel University, Vallabh Vidhya Nagar - Anand

Engineering institutes

L.D. College of Engineering, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Institute of Technology (SVIT), Dharmsinh Desai Institute of Technology (DDIT)[2] Nirma Institute of Technology, Dhirubhai Ambani Institute of Information and Communication Technology, Charotar Institute Of Technology (Changa), Sarvajanik College of Engineering and Technology,Surat,M.S university, Vadodara, Birla Vishwakarma Mahavidyalaya, Vallabh Vidyanagar are among the premier engineering institutes of west India. Gujarat also has reputed National Institute of Technology in Surat

The Institute for Plasma Research is an autonomous Physics research institute located in the capital city Gandhinagar and is involved in the research of various aspects of plasma science including basic plasma physics, research on magnetically confined hot plasmas and plasma technologies for industrial applications. The Ahmedabad Textile and Industries’ Research Association is also located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. <! Also Pandit Deen Dayal University , which is started by GSPC is offering undergraduate and management courses in petroleum fields which is one of the most leading fields. The undergraduate course college,IPTG(Institute of Petroleum Technology,Gandhinagar) has started its first batch of 240 strength.

Other institutes

Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute has been established under Council for Scientific and Industrial Research Govt. of India at Bhavnagar. It was inaugurated by Late Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the First Prime Minister of India on 10 April, 1954, with a view to carry out research on marine salt, and salt from inland lakes and sub-soil brine. It is working on reverse osmosis, electro membrane process, salt and marine chemicals, analytical science, marine biotechnology, and other related fields.

Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, one of the internationally reputed management research institute is located in Gujarat's commercial capital Ahmadabad and is the top ranked management institutes in the country [3]. B. K. School of Business Management is ranked 6th in terms of financial fanagement [4]

Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology, Surat is one of the best engineering colleges in India. It is one of the 20 NITs created by the central govt. and is a deemed university. It has students from all over India and some foreign students as well

Gujarat Science City

Gujarat Science City [5], is a government initiative to draw more students towards education in science, which hosts India's first IMAX 3D theatre, an energy park, a hall of science, an amphitheatre, and dancing musical fountains among others.

Main article: List of educational institutions of Gujarat

Tourism

Gujarat has a wealth of tourist spots. It has several temples, sunny beaches, the rann of kachchh, historic sites, beautiful cities, national parks, and sanctuaries.

Temples and religious sites

The world's first Swaminarayan Temple was built in Ahmedabad by the instructions of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

• Dwarkanath Temple is situated at Dwarka and is one of the important temples dedicated to lord Krishna.It is on the tip of the Arabian Sea and is famous for being the legendary home of Lord Krishna, the eighth Avatara of Vishnu, hero of the Mahabharata epic. Ancient ruins of a city and temple complex found underwater suggest a historical basis for the legend. The Rann of Kutchch covers a large portion of western Gujarat, and is world-famous for its rare ecosystem, fossils, wildlife and terrain.

• Palitana Temples are a complex of Jain temples situated 51 km south west of Bhavnagar. There are 863 temples from base to the peak of the Shatrunjaya hill, where the Palitana temples are located.

• Somnath Temple located in the Prabhas Kshetra near Veraval in Saurashtra, on the western coast of Gujarat, India is one of the twelve Jyotirlings (golden lingas)or symbols of the God Shiva. It is mentioned in the Rig Veda. Somnath means "The Protector of Moon God". The Somnath Temple is known as 'the Shrine Eternal', as the temple has been destroyed six times, but was rebuilt on each occasion.

• Modhera Sun Temple is famous for its rare position as specifically and uniquely designed for the worship of the Sun, Lord Surya. While the main temple is beautifully and intricately designed with complex architecture, painting and sculptures, there is a central pond and surrounding it stand 108 small temples for each of the Sun God's 108 names.

• Shankheshwar Jain Temples are dedicated to the 23rd Tirthankar, Lord Parshvanath. It is believed that this idol was revealed by Lord Krishna himself, by the teachings of Arisht Nemi the 22nd Tirthanakra. It is near Ahmedabad.

• Patan houses 84 magnificent Jain Temples built by Samrat Kumarpal, who was a staunch disciple of Hemchandracharya, a jain monk.

• Girnar is an epitome of communal harmony & amicable relations among jains & Hindus. This high-rising steep hill houses shrines of both major religions. One dedicated to Neminath or Arisht Nemi, the 22nd tirthankara, where he is believed to attain nirvana, and another dedicated to Guru Dattatreya,a Hindu deity.

Fairs

Around 3500 festivals are celebrated in Gujarat. Gujarat has always been known for its fairs and festivals. Some of these fairs and festivals are :

Bhavnath Mahadev Mela (February)

The Bhavnath Mahadev Temple, situated at the foot of Mount Girnar in the city of Junagadh is the site of the Bhavnath Mahadev fair held for five days in February, during the festival of Mahashivratri. The Mahapuja of Lord Shiva takes place at midnight in this temple on the 14th day of the dark half of the month of Magh. When the puja (prayer ceremony) starts, Naga Bavas (naked sages) living nearby, move towards the fair seated on elephants, holding flags and blowing conch shells. It is firmly believed that Lord Shiva himself visits the shrine on this occasion. Visitors are served free meals by the organizers. Special stalls sell idols, rosaries or holy beads brought by vendors from Ayodhya and Mathura, utensils of brass and copper, sweets and fruits. The Bhavnath Mahadev Temple is surrounded by many equally ancient and holy places.

Dangs Darbar (March)

Dangs Darbar is the name of the annual fair held every year in Ahwa, the most important town in the Dangs a few days before Holi. The Dangs is one of the most delightful districts of Gujarat and is located high in the Saputara hills, the original home of the adivasis, the tribal population of Gujarat. The name 'Darbar' dates back to the time of the British, when a darbar of Rajas and Naiks of neighbouring area used to assemble there. Today it is called Jamabandi Darbar and the District Collector officiates at it. Thousands of tribal people flock to Ahwa from all over the district, dressed in bright colours sounding the Shehnai and beating their drums. Folk dances, dramas and songs enliven the air during the festival.

Chitra - Vichitra Mela (March)

This fair, one of the largest, purely Adivasi (tribal) fairs attended by around 60,000 to 70,000 tribal people. It takes place every year in the village of Gunbhakhari in Sabarkantha district, very near the borders of Rajasthan. It is held a fortnight after Holi, the festival of colours. The site of the fair is attractive as the temple overlooks the rivers Sabarmati, Akul and Vyakul. The name of the fair is derived from Chitravirya and Vichitraviraya, the sons of King Shantanu, who are believed to have lived here and been cured of diseases which afflicted them. The fair attracts large numbers of Bhils (tribals) who come from all the surrounding districts using every imaginable form of transport. The Garasis and Bhil tribals dress in their customary colourful costumes. The costume of the men generally consists of a blue shirt, dhoti and a red or saffron turban. Women don ghaghras (embroidered skirts) which have a circumference of as much as 20 yards, and are covered from head to foot with ornate and heavy silver jewellery. They use liquid kumkum (vermilion) to colour their cheeks and lips a brilliant red, while their eyes are outlined with kajal (kohl). Every group that comes to the fair carries its own drum making the atmosphere come alive with the incessant beat of numerous drums. The women sing folk songs, and everyone dances. The dancing and drumming continue for hours until everyone is exhausted. Over a hundred stalls hold food and drink, and sweets of various kinds. Silver ornaments can be bought and household articles as well. Here, as in other fairs, there is a giant wheel, and a merry-go-round which never cease to spin.

Dhrang Fair (April)

Around 40 km from Bhuj, it is known for the samadhi of the famous saint Menkan Dada who served the community with great love and dedication and won their devotion. He was supposed to be the incarnation of Lakshmanji. A large fair is held on Magh Vad when a large number of Dada's followers from different parts of Gujarat and Rajasthan come to the Samadhi and participate in religious rituals.

Trinetreshwar Mahadev Fair (September-October)

The small hamlet of Tarnetar, about 75 kilometers from Rajkot, is the site for one of Gujarat's most well known annual fairs, held here during the first week of Bhadrapad (September-October). This fair is primarily a 'marriage mart' or 'Swayamvar' for the tribal youth of today who still visit Tarnetar, to find them a suitable bride. The tribal youth elegantly dressed in colourful dhotis, waistcoats and eye-catching turbans come to be chosen by village belles dressed in colourful finery. Like all-important tribal fairs, it is attended by tribes from the adjoining who indulge in dancing, competitive sports and other such forms of entertainment. There are over 300 stalls selling food, refreshments, exhibiting embroidery and cattle shows. The bachelors are usually identified by their large colourful embroidered umbrellas and their distinctive hairstyles. These umbrellas, which have become emblems of the fair, are embroidered by the tribal youth for over a year. The fair is held around the Trinetreshwar Temple dedicated to the three-eyed Lord Shiva, built at the beginning of the century. There is a kund (reservoir) here and it is popularly believed that a dip in its waters is as holy as a dip in the sacred River Ganges. The reservoir is also known as papanshu (the destroyer of sins).

Vautha Mela (November)

This magnificent fair is held every year at Vautha, where two rivers, the Sabarmati and the Vatrak meet. Like most fair sites in India, this also has both mythological and current religious associations. The Vautha Mela site is 3 square miles in area. Legends hold that Kartik Swami or Kartikeya, the son of Lord Shiva, visited the site. This is why the fair is held during Kartika Purnima, the full moon night of the month of Kartik, corresponding to November. The site, also known as Saptasangam, is at the confluence of seven rivers. The most important Shiva temple here is the temple of Siddhanath.

What is most significant about this fair is that it is the only major animal trading fair in Gujarat and is on par with the famous camel fair at Pushkar, Rajasthan. However the only animals traded here are donkeys. About 4,000 donkeys are brought every year for sale, usually by Vanjara (gypsy) traders. The pilgrims who visit Vautha during the fair are from several communities and include farmers, labourers and people belonging to several castes.

Shamlaji Melo (November)

The Shamlaji Melo, also called the Kartik Purnima fair is held in the month of November every year and lasts for about two weeks. It is attended by almost two hundred thousand people from adjoining districts and even from Rajasthan. Devotees belonging to various castes and communities including the Garasias and Bhils throng this festival. These pilgrims come in groups, singing devotional songs and carry religious banners to have a darshan (worship)of the deity at the Shamlaji Temple. The Shamlaji Temple is a renowned Vaishnav Shrine and the deity housed here is known by various names included Gadadhar (bearer of the mace) and Shaksi Gopal. The fair is also popular with the tribal people of the area, particularly the Bhils, who revere Shamlaji, the deity they refer to as 'Kalio Bavji', the dark divinity. The temple is of great archaeological significance as it was built in the 11th century. Apart from a darshan of the deity in the temple, the pilgrims consider a bath in the river Meshwo essential.

Festivals

Makar Sankranti and Kite Flying Festival (January)

It takes place in mid January and marks the time when the Sun’s direct rays reach the Tropic of Capricorn, after the winter solstice. It is celebrated with lots of folk music and dance as well as kite flying. People of Ahmedabad in numbers beyond all comprehension gather on terraces to fly kites of various colours to celebrate Makar Sanskranti or Uttrayana, the welcome to the sun after the cold winter months. The atmosphere at the festival is electrifying-glass strengthened threads of the Indian fighter kites are matched against each other in the air, and the kite fighter who cuts the other thread is the victor. At night, the activity does not end-kites with Chinese type lanterns are flown and held aloft, looking like bright twinkling stars. Typical food like Undiya, sugar cane juice and local sweets are served to celebrate the day. To promote the festival, Tourism Corporation of Gujarat organises a kite festival, with kite fighting matches, other competitions and exhibitions by kite flying clubs from the world over. Local sightseeing tours for members of kite flying clubs and tourists are organised before and after the festival. A trip to the Kite museum at Paldi, which is one of the few of it's kind in the world with over 100 kites collected by Bhanu Shah is part of the festival package.

Dance Festival -Modhera (January)

Resting on a knoll in the village of Modhera, the ruins of the 11th century Sun Temple are an impressive sight. The outer walls of the temple are covered with sculptures in which the figures of Lord Surya, the sun god are prominent. The Sun Temple is the site of an annual festival of Indian classical dances organized by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat. The idea is to present classical dance forms in an atmosphere they were originally presented in. The Kutch Mahotsav (Feb-March)

The ‘Kutch Festival’ or the ‘Rann festival’ is celebrated at the time of the Shiv Ratri in February/ March. The centre of the festival is Bhuj in Kutch. It has crafts, fairs and folk dances and music and cultural shows, all organized by the Gujarat Tourism. Tours are also conducted, out to the ruins of Dhola Vera, a city that was once a part of the Indus Valley civilization.

Holi (March)

Essentially a spring festival, there are several accounts of how Holi came to be celebrated . By one account demoness Hoda was killed by children, reducing her on a heap which was then lighted, thereby circumventing her boon of immortality. Another version treats it as day when child Krishna had sucked the demoness Putna to death. In yet another version which is popular in Gujarat, Pralhad, the son of the demon King Hiranyakashyap had emerged unhurt from the heap of fire he was made to sit on, in the lap of Holika, who got burnt instead. Thus on a full moon day of Phalgun Sud 15 Holi is celebrated to commemorate the event of one's belief. It is done by lighting a bonfire of wood and cowdung which is erected in a conical shape over a small pit which is dug at the bottom. Such fires are lit on almost all important cross-sections of roads or in the chowk of the villages. Elders predict the coming monsoon on the basis of the direction in which the flag planted atop falls. Devotees offer coconut to the fire and the youth retrieve them amidst an applause of bystanders.

It is also the principal religious festival of Adivasis in Gujarat. They abandon work and indulge in ceaseless folk dancing. The girls observe this festival by growing wheat in the bamboo baskets filled with earth and manure. In some tribes people indulge in the fowlest of abuse and mock fights.

Dhuleti (March)

The next day after Holi is Dhuleti or Dhuli Padvo. Literally it means throwing of mud, the practice which has given way to throwing of vermilion. At times the merrymaking lapses into unhindered revelry as youngsters indulge into throwing paste colours, not only on their friends but also on strangers taking advantage of the permissiveness granted on the occasion. As noted earlier Adivasis truly celebrate this festival. In the villages of Panchmahals Adivasi men play a martial game known as Gol-Gadheda in which the women after snatching a shoulder scarf from a man, ties it on a tree top with a lump of molasses. It is the job of the man to retrieve it from there not an easy task as the tree is vigorously guarded by women. The game goes on till one of the men succeed in securing the bundle. Such is the boundless merrymaking of the day.

Ashura (Varies according to Islamic Calendar)

Ashura (10th day of the First Islamic Month, Muharram) is the date when Muslims commemorate the Martyrdom of Prophet’s grandson, Husayn. The highlight of this Muslim festival termed as Ashura is the Tazia procession, which includes acrobats, drummers and singers. Miniature replicas of the martyr’s tomb are carried during the Tazia procession. The Tazia is made of bamboo and tinsel, and are double storied dome structures. There is competition among participants to offer the best Tazia, acrobatics, music and gymnastics. Tazia is a Persian term for weeping, and devout followers beat their chests to express grief. The Shia Muslims hold religious gatherings to commemorate the incidence of Karbala during the festival. For more info, see Battle of Karbala.

Janmashtami (August)

Janmashtami, the day Shri Krishna was born is celebrated with great devotion at the Jagat Mandir a temple built 1400 years ago in Dwarka. Devotees throng in thousands to celebrate this joyous occasion. Rows of lights are lit everywhere, kirtans and bhajans (devotional songs) are sung, sermons are delivered and Krishna is worshipped in his infant form. The temple of Ahmedabad the pilgrim towns of Dakore & Dwarka, the fairs of Bayayali & Dwarka, all throng with devotees of the great Lord Krishna. For celebrating Janmashtami the rituals begin on the previous day with fasting, prayers and celebrations.

Rath Yatra (August - September)

It is said in the Bhagvath Purana that Kansa had sent Akrur to Gokul for bringing Sri Krishna to Mathura as Krishna had left with his brother Balram by a chariot leaving behind the Gopis and Gopals weeping, the day is celebrated in remembrance of this most touching separation and farewell.

The mammoth procession of Rath Yatra at Ahmedabad is the biggest in Gujarat. It starts from the Jagdish Mandir situated in the Jamalpur area of the city early in the morning. There are three separate chariots for the idols of Krishna, Balram and their sister Subhadra. The chariots resemble those at Jagannath Puri and are adorned with garlands. Music bands and Bhajan Mandlis lead the procession. Decorated elephants also move with the procession and gymnasts and acrobats perform astonishing feats. Numerous sadhus of all Vaishnavite sects and devotees join in this procession headed by the Mahant of Jagannath Temple.

Raksha Bandhan (August - September)

This festival has a threefold significance. It is the day on which Brahmins change their sacred thread, Sisters tie Rakhi to their brothers, and Sea Faring communities worship the sea. On Shravan Sud 15 when the moon is in the constellation of Shravan, the Brahmins, while changing their sacred thread, rededicate themselves to study the Vedas and pursue spiritual upliftment. Whereas generally the day celebrated by all sections of the Hindu society as a day dedicated to love of sisters for their brothers. The practise of tying the rakhi or the protective knot symbolizing the good wishes, has been an ancient one. Kuntamata of Mahabharat had tied rakhi to her grandson Abhimanyu. Another important historic incident narrates how the queen Jhorabai of Mewad summoned the help of Emperor Humayun against the invading forces of Gujarat Sultan by sending him a rakhi.

The day is also celebrated as Nariyeli Poonam in the coastal areas of the State. The sea farers worship the sea by offering coconuts and set sail after the monsoon break.

Bhadra Purnima (September)

The full moon of Bhadrapad is one of the four most important festival days of the year, when farmers and agriculturists come to Ambaji, a place that derives its name from Goddess Ambaji whose shrine is located here. On this occasion, a large fair is organized on full moon days. In the evening, performances of Bhavai, the folk drama of the state is held and Garba programmes are organized. The devout attend readings of the Saptashati, the seven hundred verses in praise of the goddess and visit the temple for a darshan (worship) of her. The Ambaji shrine is the principal shrine of the goddess in Gujarat and its origins are still unknown. The Temple of Ambaji is recognized as one of the original Shakti Pithas (religious texts) where, according to the ancient Scriptures, the heart of the goddess Ambaji fell to earth when her body was dismembered. A triangular Vishwa Yantra, inscribed with figures and the syllable 'Shree' in the centre, represents the deity. There is no idol, which in fact testifies the temple's antiquity. Idol worship became popular much later.

Navratri (September-October)

Navratri, meaning nine nights is a colourful and ancient festival honouring the Mother Goddess- the Divine Shakti who supports the entire universe, protects worshippers, destroys evil and grants boons to her children. The mother goddess has seven well-known forms, including Kali one of her fiercest manifestations. Navratri is held annually in September-October and is celebrated with joy and religious fervour. An interesting feature of Navratri is the Garba and the Dandia-Ras dances. The costumes worn for the dances are traditional and extremely colourful. These dances start very late at night and end in the early hours of the morning. Ahmedabad is one of the greatest places to enjoy Navratri. All kinds of Rasa-Garbas, Dandia ras etc. are practiced in this period, feasting and fasting are important cultural aspects of this day, and various rituals are performed at temples of the 9 Goddesses of Hinduism. The atmosphere is electric and revelry is in the air.

Dussehra (September-October)

Dussehra, a ten-day festival in September-October is symbolic of the triumph of good over evil.

Diwali (October-November)

The last day of the Hindu year of the Vikram era is celebrated as Diwali or festival of lights all over the State. According to the Purana, Lord Vishnu had rescued Goddess Lakshmi from the hold of King Bali on this day. It is also believed that on this day Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya. Sathia(Swastik) and Rangoli (making of attractive designs by coloured powder) marks every courtyard with rows and rows of earthen lamps lighting up the surrounding area and giving a special touch of festivity. Merchants worship Goddess Lakshmi and the books of accounts. At night firecrackers of various types are burnt by youngsters. The next day or Kartik Sud 1, the first of the Hindu calendar is celebrated as New Years Day with great solemnity.

Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganesh is remembered on chauth or chaturthi, the 4th day of every month of the Hindu calendered, but most of all on Ganesh Chaturthi which is celebrated as his birthday. Ladoos are distributed on the day-by tradition ladoos were placed in different corners of the house and eaten before the meal. Milk is offered to idols of lord Ganesh at home and at temples, and Ganesh puja is performed at all temples and hi-house prayer rooms. Fasting, feasting and distribution of sweets offered to Lord Ganesh are important aspects of Ganesh chaturthi rituals in India. Hindus pray to images of Lord Ganesha, large and small, many of them made specially for the occasion by cottage industries and street side artisans, and those that do not wish to keep the idols alive by daily prayers, offerings and lighting oil lamps, immerse them in the nearest water body (all rivers, lakes and the sea which are sacred to Hindus). Centuries ago during a war between the Gods and the Demons, Lord Shiva was away for a long time. His wife, Goddess Parvati, afraid of being alone for an extended period used her divine powers and created a son, Ganesh, and gave him the responsibility of protecting the house. When Lord Shiva and his army, returned victorious to his home, Parvati was in her bath, and Ganesh had been strictly instructed not to allow anyone in. Angered by Ganesh's refusal to allow him in to the house, Lord Shiva and his army chopped off the boy's head. When Parvati came out of her bath, she was shocked and grieved to see her son dead. Lord Shiva, to pacify, her proclaimed that the head of Ganesh would be replaced by that of the first creature that came up the hill. As luck would have it the first visitor to the hill was an elephant and his head was promptly cut off and placed on that of Lord Ganesh, and life was restored to the son of Lord Shiva and goddess Parvati. To pacify his wife further and compensate for the act of killins own son, Lord Shiva bestowed upon Ganesh the powers of a God and blessed him that henceforth no activity will begin without invoking your name and blessings. Since then, it is said, no new venture - the inauguration of accompany, the opening of a shop, the foundation of a building, entering a new home - is deemed complete by Hindus without a Ganesh puja.

Holidays

Like every other state of India, Gujarat also celebrates all the festivals with great zeal and joy. It is known as the land of fairs and festivals. During the festive season, the people visit temples and pray, which is usually followed by a round of merrymaking. The state is swept away by the tides of festivity. There are some festivals which are celebrated particularly in this region only. These festivals provide an opportunity to learn about the cultural heritage of the people of Gujarat. On such occasions, all the government offices observe holidays.

National Holidays

• Republic Day (26th January)
• Independence Day (15th August)
• Gandhi Jayanti (2nd October)

Public Holidays

• Makarsankranti (Kite Flying Festival)
• Bansanta Panchami/Shree Panchami
• Guru Ravida's Birthday
• Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati Jayanti
• Holi (Holikadahana Dolyatra)
• Chaitra Sukhladi/Gudi Padava/Ugadi/Cheti Chand
• Ram Navami
• Vaishakhi
• Mesadl
• Avishu
• Rath Yatra
• Ganesh Chaturthi/Vinayaka Chaturthi
• Raksha Bandhan
• Hazarat Ali's Birthday
• Maharishi Valmiki's Birthday
• Dussehra
• Diwali
• Govardhan Puja
• Bhai Dooj

National parks and sanctuaries

Main article: List of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries of Gujarat, India

Gujarat has 4 National parks and 21 sanctuaries which include: Nal Sarovar, Anjal, Balaram-Ambaji, Barda, Jambughoda, Jessore, Kachchh Desert, Khavda, Narayan Sarovar, Paniya, Purna, Rampura, Ratanmahal, and Surpaneshwar.

Gujarat is the only home of Asiatic Lions. Outside Africa, Gujarat is the only natural habitat of lions. Gir Forest National Park in south-west part of the state covers only the part of lion's habitat. Besides lions, the other big cat can be found in the state are Panthers. Panthers are spread across large plains of Saurashtra and mountains of South Gujarat.

Historic sites

• Lothal is the site of the ancient ruins of the first Indian port, dating from the time of the Indus Valley Civilization.

• Dholavira, the ancient city, locally known as Kotada Timba, is one of the largest and most prominent archaeological sites in India, belonging to the Indus Valley Civilization. It is located on the Khadir island in the Kutch district of Gujarat - the island is surrounded by water in the monsoon season. The site was occupied from about 2900 BC for about a millennium, declining slowly after about 2100, briefly abandoned and then reoccupied, finally by villagers among its ruins, until about 1450.

While the city of Ahmedabad is a large and fast-growing modern metropolis, it was also the home of the Indian Independence Movement, with the Sabarmati Ashram of Mahatma Gandhi a standing legacy. Other major tourist sites include Palitana, Diu, Kutch, Jamnagar, Junagadh, and Rajkot([6]) in the region of Saurashtra; and Champaner and Pavagarh in the Panchmahal district.

Museums

Gujarat has the largest number of museums in India as compared to any other State. These are located at Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Dharampur, Rajkot, Jamnagar, Amreli, Bhavnagar, Junagadh, Prabhas-Patan, Bhuj and several other places.The Government of Gujarat has established a separate Department of Museums directly under its own administrative care and control, with a view to reorganizing and developing them and popularizing through them a study of Art, Archaeology and Science, besides developing a wide aesthetic sense among students and the lay public. The administrative centre of this unit is located at the Museum and Picture Gallery, Vadodara, which is the Principal State museum and the nucleus from which all activities emanate.

• Vadodara Museum, Vadodara
• Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum, Vadodara
• Watson Museum, Rajkot
• Gandhi Museum, Bhavnagar
• Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya, Ahmedabad
• Calico Museum of Textiles, Ahmedabad

Vadodara Museum (Vadodara) - The museum has a varied collection while the gallery has Moghul miniatures and also a collection of European masters.Located in the popular Sayaji Bagh, the museum houses a collection which belonged to the former maharaja Sayaji Rao Gaekwad. for details.. Click Here

Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum (Vadodara) - The Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum, located in the sprawling grounds of the palace complex, is a multi purpose museum and houses the Gaekwad family's rich collection of an treasures.In the museum royal art collection includes European works by Raphael, and exhibits of Graeco-Roman, Chinese and Japanese art as well as Indian exhibits

Watson Museum (Rajkot) - The Watson Museum exhibits copies of artifacts from Mohenjodaro, natural history, 13th century carvings, temple statues, costumes and design of the houses of the local tribal people. The Watson Museum also houses an excellent collection of traditional, archaeological items and coins. While the museum's archeology gallery also boasts of artifacts of per-historic period and the Harappan civilization in the archeology gallery, a treasure of sculptures belonging to erstwhile Ghumali - a capital of Jethwa - grace the sculpture gallery.

Gandhi Museum (Bhavnagar) - The Gandhi Museum displayed are documents, letters and Gandhiji's personal relics. The collection of audio-visual material includes microfilms, a voice library, prayers and lecture records. These recreate the significant events of Gandhiji's life.

Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya (Ahmedabad) - The museum's main objective was to house the personal memorabilia of Mahatma Gandhi. There are books, manuscripts and photostat copies of his correspondence, photographs of Gandhiji with his wife Kasturba and other ashram associates.

Calico Museum of Textiles (Ahmedabad) - The Calico Museum of Textiles established in 1948 which is one of India's leading museums. The museum is housed in two buildings, one displaying textiles of religious significance and the other traditional court fabrics, tents, carpets and costumes. The museum endeavours to present its collection in themes connected with the two great Indian religions: Vaishnavism and Jainism.

Shopping

Gujarat is one of the most vibrant states in India. It has rich cultural heritage, which is well rooted in its traditional value system. As a result, the traditional art forms have managed to survive in the state. The age old weaving techniques are practiced by the people with great zeal and pride. The state is a shopper's paradise and presents a wide variety to shop from. It is world famous for its handicrafts, handlooms and textiles, providing the perfect answer as to what to shop for. The exuberant shopping places of Gujarat are simply irresistible. You will be bound to pick something or the other, as a memoir of your trip.

The rich tradition of handicrafts in the state is alive and surviving and it also claims of a prosperous art and craft industry. It even has a flourishing textile industry, which is enhanced by the ancient embroidery work. The fabrics are adorned with distinct embroidery patterns in different colors and stitches. This makes each outfit unique and diverse. The sarees are a huge hit in Gujarat and there is no dearth of shopping places to buy sarees, embellished with Zari works, beadwork, mirrors, sequins, shells as well as tie-and-dye and block-printed designs.

This makes these sarees an exemplary piece of art and a must for every Indian woman's wardrobe. The state is also home to the world famous Patola Sarees Such a wide variety at your disposal is available only in the markets of Gujarat. The markets are thronged during the festive and the marriage season. State Emporiums provide excellent range of handicrafts and other items in a congenial environment. Both plastic and paper currencies are widely accepted throughout the state. Shopping from the road side vendor is also a fun experience, as you often find fantastic items at a good bargain.

• Gujarat Specialties
• Patola Silk Sarees
• Bandhnis and traditional Gagra-Cholis
• Marriage Costumes
• Wall Hangings
• Embroidered, Appliquéd Quilts
• Cradle Clothes
• Cloth Toys
• Embroidered Footwear
• Lacquer Furniture

Gujarati Cultural

Gujarati Wedding Ceremony

HINDU WEDDING

Marriage is a highly auspicious occasion in the Indian culture. According to the Vedas, the Hindu scriptures, marriage is a sacred life long commitment between a man and a woman. It is considered to be the strongest of all social bonds and is the initiation into a lifetime of togetherness. The Vedic wedding ceremony consists of prayers, invocations, and vows recited in Sanskrit, the most ancient surviving language. The Vedic wedding ceremony dates back to over five thousand years. The ceremony is performed under a decorated canopy, the Mandap. The four pillars that surround the madap represent the four parents. This signifies the important part they have played in raising their children to become the responsible adults they are today. The ceremony is performed before a sacred fire, or Agni, which is the eternal witness of the marriage and all vows taken.

HINDU WEDDING CEREMONY

Baraat (Wedding Procession) The original form of a baraat is a procession from the groom's house to the bride's house for the wedding ceremony. The joyous wedding day begins with the Mangal Vadya, the playing of Shehnai (a traditional wind instrument) and Dhol (Indian drum). Swagatam (Welcoming of the Groom and his Family) The groom and his family are greeted at the doors of the Mandir (Temple) by the bride's parents and family. The mother of the bride then greets and welcomes the groom and his family into her own family. She blesses the groom by placing a tilak (red dot) on his forehead. The groom is then led to the mandap where the wedding ceremony will take place.

Ganesh Puja (The worship of Lord Ganesh) Every Hindu ceremony begins with the worship of Lord Ganesh, deity of peace and wisdom. This is done so people can find strength within themselves to remove any obstacles that may arise. Madhuparka (Welcoming the Groom) While the groom is sitting under the mandap the Madhuparka is performed where his feet are washed by the bride's parents. He is then offered Panchamrut, a liquid composed of milk, yogurt, ghee, honey, and sugar.

Kanya Danam (Giving away of the daughter) The bride accepts her change of status from an unmarried woman to a wife by spreading turmeric powder on her hands. Kanya Danam is performed by the father (or uncle of guardian) of the bride in presence of a large gathering that is invited to witness the wedding.

Vivaaha (Wedding) The bride and the groom face each other, and the priest ties their garments (the bride's saree to the groom's shirt) in a knot, symbolizing the sacred union. The bride and the groom garland each other and exchange the rings.Next the nuptial fire, symbolizing the divine witness, and the sanctifier of the sacrament, is installed and worshipped.

Both the bride and the groom grasp their hands together and pray to God for His blessings. Samagree, consisting of crushed sandalwood, herbs, sugar, rice, ghee (clarified butter), and twigs is offered into the sacred fire to seek God's blessings for the couple.

Mangal Phera (The Circumambulation of the Sacred Fire) The groom holds the bride by the hand and both walk three times around the sacred fire. Both offer oblations and recite appropriate Vedic hymns to Gods for prosperity, good fortune, and conjugal fidelity. They touch each others heart and pray for union of their hearts and minds.

Satapadi (Seven Sacred Steps - Oaths) This is the most important rite of the entire ceremony. Here the bride and the groom take seven steps together around the sacred fire (Agni) and make the following seven promises to each other: As per the Vedic rituals, the groom sings "With God as our guide, let us take":

1. The first step to nourish each other
2. The second step to grow together in strength
3. The third step to preserve our wealth
4. The fourth step to share our joys and sorrows
5. The fifth step to care for our children
6. The sixth step to be together forever
7. The seventh step to remain lifelong friends
8. The perfect halves to make a perfect whole!
The Satapadi ceremony concludes with a prayer that the union is indissoluble. At the end of this ceremony, the groom and the bride become husband and wife.

Mangal Sutra The Mangala Sutra Dharana is the tying of the thread containing the marks of the Vishnu or Shiva on the neck of the bride by the groom.

Suhaag or Sindhoordana The groom places sindoor (red powder) on the bride's hair symbolizing her as a married woman.

Aashirvaad (Blessing) The groom's parents bless the couple and offer clothes or flower to the bride, symbolizing her joining the groom's family. All those assembled at the ceremony shower flowers on the couple and bless them completing the marriage.

Gujarati Dances

Dandiya Raas
Dandiya Raas is a very energetic, colorful and playful dance originating in the state of Gujarat. It's roots lay from the days of Lord Krishna who played raas on the shores of Yamuna river on a moonlit night with his beloved Gopis.

Men and women dressed in colorful clothes dance in two concentric circles - one moving clockwise, one moving counter-clockwise. Men and women carry two bamboo sticks called dandiyas in their hands. In addition to footwork, one of the most enjoyable part of this dance is the creative use of dandiyas.

The song sung on the occasion is essentially an amorous one. Raas is a very playful dance providing opportunity for acting and exchanging messages through eye contact. It is no wonder that many romances bloom during Navaratri and hence the popularity of the dance among the younger generation.

Garba
Garba is a very graceful form of dance mainly performed by females in a circular formation, it is in reverences of goddess Ambaji. The basics of the dance are singing and clapping rhythmically while going around the goddess. Today many modifications are prevalent to the basic pattern and even men are free to join in. Women are dressed in exquisitely embroidered, set in mirrors cholis, ghaghras and bandhani dupattas! Extensive jewelry in the form of necklaces, bracelets and anklets are also worn. The typical dress code of men is kehediyu, chudidar and a turban.

Garbi
Originally men use to perform this dance. It was on the way back from a battle that the victorious army would start dancing to couplets and amorous songs sung by the Charanswar, or the narrators who used to go to the front to raise the spirit during the battle by singing songs of valor. The dance was characteristic for its forceful movements which would fascinate viewers. Today, however, even females participate in the dance.

Padhar
It is performed by a rural community living around NalLake. In it, performers simulate the rhythmic movements of roving mariners and the undulating sea waves. The Bhil tribes, who live close to border tracts, and the Adivasis of Dangs district, have particularly lively folk dances.

Languages

Gujarat is inhabited by people belonging to varied castes, religions and communities. Due to this reason, a number of varied languages are spoken in the state. The official language of the state is Gujarati. It is an Indo-Aryan language derived from Sanskrit and was invented by Anand Kukadia. He had perfect knowledge of Hindi and other languages. Gujarati is the 26th most widely spoken language in the world. In addition to this, it has eleven dialects, spoken in different parts of the state.

Gujarat shares its borders with other neighboring states of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Therefore, there is a small population which speaks the respective languages of the different states also, namely Marwari, Hindi, and Marathi. Apart from this, Urdu and Sindhi are also spoken in Gujarat. Kutch is one of the important areas in the state. It has an independent identity and is growing popular amongst tourists. The mother tongue of the people of Kutch is Kachchi. It is an important language of the region.

Religions

In Gujarat, there have been several great religious figures. Sant Dadu Dayal (1554-1603), a saint-poet and a major Bhakti figure from Ahmedabad treated equally both Rama and Allah as names of God and became popular in Northern India. He wrote, "The illusion of Allah and Rama hath been dispelled by my mind ; since I see Thee in all."

Gujarat is also the home of Gandhi who preached the unity between all religions and became a world-wide figure for peaceful struggle against tyranny.

Hinduism

Gujarat is a part of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization.

Many Hindu religious traditions developed in Gujarat. Gujarat is the birth-place of Lord Shiva's avatar Lakulisa (Staff-God). He established the Pasupata Shaivite tradition (one of the six major schools of Shaivism) in 2 A.D. or 3 A.D. According to some traditions he was born in Kayarohana or Kayavatara in Saurashtra while other traditions hold that it was Karavana, in the modern-day town of Dabhoi Taluka near Baroda, another that it was Ulkapuri (modern Avakhal) and another that it was in Braoch or Bharuch. From Gujarat it spread north to Kashmir, South to Tamil Nadu, East to Nepal (where the Pashupatinath Temple stills exists popularly.)

Bhakti movement

The Bhakti movement was very popular in Gujarat where devotees of both Islam and Hinduism focused worship of God, trying to rid any separations based on faith in God.

Swami Chakradhara was another major figure of the Bhakti movement, born in Gujarat in 1194 A.D. and he is believed to be the avatar of Vishnu. Chakradhara Maharaja established the Manhubhava Vaishnavite sect which spread to Maharashtra as well. The sect still exists today in Gujarat and Maharashtra.

Sant Kilha was another Vaishnavite saint of Gujarat born to a Subedar (army man) father. He was the disciple of Krishnasdas (of Jaipur) and became his successor at the seat of Galta - Kilha's branch became known as the "Tapasa branch." Besides Ram Bhakti (devotion to Lord Rama), he was also inclined towards yog-saghana and this is why he was made acharya of the Galta Gaddi. He is said to be the founder of the Khati sect. Jalarama, a devotee of Lord Rama is another popular figure. Jalarama's birthday is still celebrated by Gujarati (in Gujarat and abroad) as Jalaram Jayanti.

Swami Sahajananda, better known as Swami Narayana settled in Gujarat from Uttar Pradesh. Today the Swami Narayana movement is very large in Gujarat.

Zoroastrianism

This religion founded by Zarathustra Spitma (better known as "Zoroaster") resembles Hinduism in many ways (although differing as a strict monotheism too.)

For example, in this religion, the cow is very sacred. In the 9th chapter of the of the Vendidad of the Avesta, the purificatory power of cow urine is dilated upon. It is declared to be a panacea for all bodily and moral evils. It is drunk as well as applied externally as is done by Hindus also. Urine of the bull, called "nirang" is brought to the house of an orthodox Parsi every morning and is (like cow milk) applied to the face, hands and feet.

They Zoroastrians a.k.a. Parsi and Irani due to their ancient heritage entered Gujarat from the Persian Empire.

They have many businesses in India and are economically very powerful.

Gujarat Cuisine

Gujarat is known for its traditional food the world wide over. Gujaratis are great gastronomes and enjoy food. The state provides immense variety in everything, be it tourism, shopping or food. The diversity you will find in the Gujarati cuisine is simply outstanding. So much of variation in just one state is an unusual phenomenon. The taste, preparation and type of food depend mainly on region, climate, location and lifestyle. So, one can say that Gujaratis strongly believe in 'Variety is the spice of life'. The South, North and Saurashtra region of Gujarat presents a completely different platter, which is delectable in its own way.

The food served in the South of Gujarat is influenced by the cuisine of Maharashtra. There is considerably less use of sugar in the dishes. In South Gujarat, people usually consume Jowar, whereas in Saurashtra and North Gujarat, the diet comprises mainly of Bajra and Maize. In Baroda, you will find a blend of all tastes due to its location. In earlier times, wheat was consumed only by the elite and by the middle class during the festive season. With changing time, things have changed. Today, wheat forms an integral part of the Gujarati platter and is used in a number of ways.

The Gujarati Thali is absolutely a treat for your taste buds. Apart from the taste, it is so attractive in appearance, that just a glimpse of it will bring water to your mouth. It contains all the four major components, namely Cereal, Pulses, Vegetables, Rice and supplements like pickle, chutney, papad, buttermilk and salad. There is ample use of ginger, garlic, green chilies and jaggery in various dishes. Sugar is also used at times. It is a completely delectable platter that cannot be resisted at any cost. However, the staple diet in Gujarat is Tuver Dal served with rice. There is an entire array of food items prepared in the state.

Sweets

• Basundi
• Doodh Pak
• Gajar Halwa
• Gulab Jamun
• Jalebi
• Ladoo
• Puran Puri
• Shrikhand
• Mohan Thal
• Magas
• Barfi

Snacks

• Batata Wada
• Bhajias
• Chana Dal Wada
• Dal Wada
• Dhokla
• Farsi Puri
• Gandhias
• Handvo
• Kachori
• Khandvi
• Muthias
• Sev-Usal
• Bhel
• Pani Puri

Pulses (Dals)Kadhi

• Mixed Dal
• Moong Dal
• Plain Dal
• Tuver Dal

Vegetables

• Batata Suki Bhaji
• Cabbage Peas
• Cauliflower-Green Peas
• Methi Mutter
• Okra
• Sev-Tomatoes

Transportation

Airports

Gujarat is served by ten airports, though the only one offering international flights is Sardar Vallabhbhai International Airport in Ahmedabad.

Sardar Vallabhbhai International Airport (Ahmedabad) Many domestic as well as international flights operate from here.

Domestic Airports

• Bhavnagar Airport - Bhavnagar Airport, 9 km from the city of Bhavnagar.
• Bhuj Airport - In the Bhuj city of Gujarat.
• Jamnagar Airport - 10 km from the City of Jamnagar.
• Kandla Airport (Gandhidham) - situated at Kandla, near Gandhidham, in Kutch district.
• Keshod Airport (Junagadh) - Keshod Airport is found 3 km from Keshod city in Junagadh District.
• Porbandar Airport - is situated 5 km from the city of Porbandar.
• Rajkot Airport - 4 km from the city of Rajkot.
• Surat Airport - This domestic airport of Gujarat was recently inaugurated in Surat, on Magdalla Road.
• Vadodara Airport - Another domestic airport can be found near Vadodara city in Gujarat.

Local Transportation

Bus
One of the most popular public transports in Gujarat is the City Bus. The only problem that can surface with the city buses is that the bus numbers and the route information is given in Gujarati. Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) is the primary body responsible for providing these services. It is a public transport corporation providing bus services and public transit within Gujarat and to the other states in India. Apart from this, there are a number of services provided by GSRTC.

• Mofussil Services - It connects major cities, smaller towns and villages within Gujarat.
• Intercity Bus Services - It also connects major cities - Ahmedabad, Vadodara (Baroda) and Rajkot.
• Interstate Bus Services - It connects various cities of Gujarat with the neighboring states of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan.
• City Services - GSRTC also provides city bus services at Surat, Baroda, Rajkot, Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad, within the state of Gujarat.
• Parcel Services - This service is used for transporting goods.

Apart from this, the GSRTC provides special bus services for festivals, industrial zones, schools, colleges and pilgrim places.

Auto Rickshaws
Auto rickshaw is an important and frequently used mode of transport in Gujarat. It is a convenient and comfortable way of traveling. Usually the drivers are helpful and understand English as well as Hindi.

Taxis
Taxis are another popular means of transport. There are taxi stands near the airport, railway station and bus stand. Here, you can book the taxis for the required period of time. The taxi driver stays with you for the complete journey. He normally understands English, for the convenience of the customers.

See also

• 2001 Gujarat earthquake
• 2002 Gujarat violence
• 2006 Gujarat earthquake
• Dholavira
• Gujarat in Lok Sabha
• Gujarati people
• List of Maitraka rulers of Gujarat
• List of Muzaffarid rulers of Gujarat
• List of people from Gujarat
• List of Solanki rulers of Gujarat
• List of Vaghela rulers of Gujarat
• Parsi

External links

• Government of Gujarat
• Gujarat at Curlie
• Template:Wikitravel
• Online Tribute To The Great Gujarati Author
• Introduction to Gujarat
• Gujarati websites
• Gujarat Airport Tips