Visitors to the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar can now enjoy Gujarat’s tribal cultural traditions through regular live performances. The Statue of Unity (SoU) Authority and the Gujarat Tribal Research and Training Society have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize this initiative. Traditional tribal dance and cultural performances will take place twice a month on Saturdays at the tourist destination, showcasing artists from tribal communities across Gujarat.
The program will feature 14 traditional dance forms representing various districts of the state. These include Rathwa, Gher, and Mewasi dances from Chhota Udepur; Kahadiya and Pawari dances from Dang; Folk Dance and Holi Dance from Narmada; Gamit Dhol Dance and Chaudhary Folk Dance from Tapi; Talwar Dance and Timli Dance from Mahisagar; Mandal Dance and Tur Dance from Navsari; and Kahli Dance from Valsad.
The performances are an extension of an initiative that began on ‘Gujarat Foundation Day’ on May 1, 2024. Tribal dance programs started being organized every fortnight at the Statue of Unity and have received positive feedback from visitors. The MoU aims to further enhance and institutionalize these cultural showcases at the site.
The agreement was signed by Gopal Bamaniya, Additional Collector of the Statue of Unity Authority, and Dr. C.C. Chaudhary, Executive Director of the Gujarat Tribal Research and Training Society. Gopal Bamaniya highlighted that the initiative seeks to introduce visitors to Gujarat’s diverse tribal culture and traditions through live performances. Dr. C.C. Chaudhary mentioned that tribal artists from different districts of Gujarat will present traditional dances and cultural programs regularly, aiming to provide wider recognition to the state’s tribal culture and offer a platform for local artists to display their talent.
The program is part of the state’s efforts, under the supervision of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and the leadership of Tribal Development Minister Naresh Patel and Minister of State, P.C. Baranda, to preserve and promote Gujarat’s tribal cultural heritage.
