Culture of Gwalior

Culture of Gwalior

        Gwalior has a rich cultural heritage. It is near Agra and a part of Bundelkhand. The city with its historical monuments (forts and royal mansions) reflects a blend of Bundelkhand culture and Braj cultures. Bundelkhand signifies a cultural region comprising of a larger part of Madhya Pradesh. Some part of it is even spread over Uttar Pradesh. The area was ruled by the Chedi rulers and is known for its folk culture. Braj comprises some part of the Uttar Pradesh State (Agra, Mathura, and Bharatpur). Braj culture is associated with Krishna cult. Gwalior comes under Bundelkhand region. But, the present day culture has been a mixture of the Braj and Bundelkhand culture. Hindi is the main spoken language here. 

     This fusion of culture could be seen through the prevailing art and activities of the region. Folk dance and music have been a part of Gwalior. Gwalior is the home for the Gwalior Gharana and the Drupad Gharana of music. Tansen, one of the Nine Jewels who adorned the Royal court of Akbar was buried here. He was a great singer. The tomb of Tansen is a tourist spot in Gwalior. Another singer of much fame Baiju Bawra also lived here during the Tomar rule. 

       Ahiri dance (practiced by the followers of Krishna), Baredi dance of Bundelkhand, Saharia dance, Dul- Dul Gori dance are some of the popular folk dances that is being practiced in Gwalior. The area has given birth to two folk poets namely Jagnik and Ghag. Recently, in 2005 a local sculptor named Aasutosh Panigrahi won international acclaim for his mural design by the Guinness book of World records. 

       The cuisine of Gwalior is mainly a mixture of Marathi and Mughal flavors. Morena Gajak (a sweet made of sesame seeds and sugar), and Moong Dal ki Halwa are the main sweet dishes to be tried in Gwalior.