GADHE KA BYAH

"Gadhe Ka Byah" is a folk culture based musical Hindi play depicting the culture of Uttranchal. The show starts with a tikka ceremony where tikka is applied to the audience and they are also given an Uttranchal cap, in order to create a homely atmosphere. Huduk music is played to depict the sowing of seeds in the field. Different cultures of Uttranchal are brought to light. The play shows a typical wedding ceremony that takes place in the province of Garwal. In a typically Garwal wedding, the broom acts as if he has won the bride. This is shown exquisitely with the help of white and red coloured flags that adorn the stage.

The people of Uttranchal send "Byoli Pitara" with the girl in her palanquin (dolki). This palanquin carries the bride's ornaments, dresses and the bride along with it. The farewell ceremony (bidai) is done under the shade of the stars"(taro ki chaon mein) quite literally! . The Groom's side (baraat) goes away and the music of Nagada Dhol plays in the background. Dances like Nyoli, Chanchri and Jhoda are performed by gilrs dressed beautifully in Pahadi clothes, adorning nose rings (naths). The climax of the play is not revealed to the audience. It clashes with the original climax of the story that has been penned by Haribhau Wadgaonkar, from which this play "Gadhe Ka Byah" is adapted.