The Thar Desert is also called the Great Indian Desert. It is located in between western India and southeastern Pakistan. It is mostly in the Indian state of Rajasthan, and also extends into the
southern part of Haryana and Punjab states and up to northern Gujarat state. The main occupation of the people in Thar Desert is agriculture and animal husbandry. In past years there has been increase in human population and animal population. The living standard of the people in the Thar Desert is low.
Jodhpur is the largest city in the region. Bikaner and Jaisalmer are also located in the desert. A colorful culture, rich in tradition, prevails in the Thar Desert. The people of Thar Desert like music. Every region has its own music and dance. The Ghoomar dance from Udaipur and Kalbeliya dance of Jaisalmer are popular all over world and have international recognition. Folk music is a great part of Rajasthani culture. Songs are mainly used to tell the legendary battles of Rajputs. Folk songs commonly relate heroic deeds, love stories and religious, devotional songs also known as bhajans and banis, often accompanied by musical instruments i.e. dholak, sitar, sarangi etc. Rajasthani clothes use lot of mirror -work. A Rajasthani traditional dress for females has an ankle length skirt and a short top and a piece of cloth that is used to cover the head. Rajasthani dresses are usually designed in bright colours. |
