No state in India can boast off a culture as vibrant
as that of Uttar Pradesh. The state has a very rich history that has
contributed in the consolidation of its vivid culture. The state has
been under the rule of various emperors and dynasties in the course of
history and almost every one of them right from Moguls to Nawabs have
contributed significantly in consolidating the cultural traditions of
UP.
A rich heritage of songs and dances is an integral part of any culture.
The same is true with Utter Pradesh too. The state has a distinct song
culture that includes various folk, classical, semi-folk and
semi-classical genres. The most famous among all these are Ghazal and
Qauwwali. The modern version of both these art forms owes their birth to
Uttar Pradesh. Equally popular if not more are Birha, Kajari and Chaiti.
While the former is based on mood the later ones are season based. Apart
from these other art forms such as Rasia, Khayal, Tappa and Thumari are
also very popular among the elites. Uttar Pradesh has produced some of
the masters of these music genres.
As far as dances are concerned, Kathak is considered as the state dance
of Uttar Pradesh. The dance form that originated from the courts of
Royals has traversed a long path since its inception. Another dance form
named Ras-lila is also very popular among the masses. This art form is
chiefly confined to Braj region and owes its existence to Lord Krishna.
Poetry also forms an integral part of day-to-day activity in Utter
Pradesh. This is primarily done in Hindi, Urdu and Awadhi. The state has
the pride to produce many laureates of this craft.
Talking of cuisines, Uttar Pradesh has quite a range to offer to the
visitors. The choice can range from Galawati and Kakori kabobs in Oudh
to Rampuri Fish and Tahri in Western Uttar Pradesh. Several sweet dishes
decorate this platter, which includes among others Petha and Peda from
Agra and Mathura respectively. So as you can see, UP has quite a lot to
offer at every front when it comes to culture; it will be more than nice
to give UP a try once.
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