In the serene valleys of Chamba and Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh, where nature sings its own melody, lives the vibrant Gaadi community. This community holds a treasure trove of traditions, one of which is the rare and captivating art form known as Nuvala. Rooted in faith and folklore, Nuvala is more than just a performance; it is a vivid storytelling medium that weaves together music, dance, and devotion.
During our journey to this culturally rich region, we encountered an extraordinary group of Nuvala performers. The ensemble consists of 12 women singers, 2 male singers, and 8 female dancers, all carrying forward a tradition that celebrates the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Through their songs and dances, the group narrates episodes from this celestial wedding, immersing their audiences in tales of love, devotion, and cosmic grandeur.
At the heart of this group is their Guruji, Janme Jai Singh Guleria Ji, a revered mentor who has dedicated his life to preserving and teaching this art form. Guleria Ji has even performed for Dharamshala’s radio station, adding further credibility to his artistic prowess. The younger members of the group have been trained under his guidance, ensuring that the nuances of Nuvala and other related art forms like Jamkaara (playful songs of marriage), Suhaag (songs for the bride), and Sehra (songs for the groom) are preserved for generations to come.
Their repertoire extends beyond Nuvala to include devotional songs dedicated to local deities, particularly Baba Ji, which they often perform at Jaagrans (night-long prayer gatherings) in Dharamshala. These spiritual renditions not only reinforce their faith but also resonate deeply with the local community.
Nuvala is a unique blend of song and dance, with performances centered around the mythical marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The songs narrate the various rituals and events of the divine wedding, offering glimpses into the rich folklore of the region. Titles like Shiv Kailasho ke Vaasi (Lord Shiva, the resident of Kailash), Bhole balle shaami ka byaah (Hail the wedding of Lord Shiva), and Jaanni Shiva teri hanjue bo hoi (Oh Shiva, may your wishes be fulfilled) are just a few examples of their traditional playlist.
Accompanying the singers are the female dancers, who enhance the storytelling with their graceful movements. Adorned in traditional Himachali bridal attire, the dancers bring alive the essence of the narratives. Their vibrant costumes include a flaring gown called Nuachadi, a dupatta known as reeda, and a black waistband or dori, symbolizing Lord Shiva’s ascetic attire. Intricately designed accessories such as Chidi (headgear), Maang Teeka (forehead ornament), Chandrahaar (silver necklace), Gojri (silver bracelet), and the iconic Nath (nose ring) complete their ensemble, adding authenticity and grandeur to their performance.
The group’s musical accompaniment is simple yet powerful. Instruments like the Dholak, Ghartaal, and Kaansi create an enchanting rhythm that complements their soulful singing. The music has a distinctive style, cherished by the local audience for its melodic appeal and infectious energy. It’s not uncommon for listeners to sway along with the tunes, captivated by the group’s harmonies and the dancers’ synchronized movements.
Despite their immense talent and dedication, the group faces significant challenges in sustaining their art form. They perform only one or two shows a month, with bookings often dependent on seasonal festivals like Baisakhi (Besoa) and Lohri (Khichdi), or weddings in the region. Payments for these performances are inconsistent, and the group sometimes performs for free, driven by their devotion to keeping the tradition alive.
Their limited financial returns stand in stark contrast to the cultural value of their art. For the group, the joy of sharing their heritage often outweighs monetary concerns, but the lack of sustainable income poses a threat to the survival of Nuvala in the long run.
The Gaadi performers see themselves as custodians of a rich cultural legacy. Each performance is an offering of devotion and a celebration of their community’s identity. They aim to evoke pride in their audience, not just for the beauty of their art but also for the deep spiritual and historical roots it represents.
The group’s artistry shines during festivals and social gatherings, where their songs transport listeners into a world of divine stories and cultural splendor. Their ability to connect with their audience is unparalleled, and their performances serve as a reminder of the timeless charm of folk traditions.
The Gaadi community’s commitment to Nuvala and related art forms goes beyond mere performance—it is an act of faith. By intertwining the folklore of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati with their cultural identity, they have created an art form that is both spiritually uplifting and culturally significant.
However, the group’s future depends on increased recognition and support. Efforts to document and promote Nuvala could ensure its survival and inspire younger generations to carry forward this beautiful tradition. Supporting such artists not only helps preserve their heritage but also enriches the broader cultural tapestry of India.
In the picturesque valleys of Himachal Pradesh, the Gaadi community’s Nuvala performances stand as a testament to the enduring power of tradition and faith. The melodies of their songs and the elegance of their dances transcend time, offering a glimpse into a world where art and devotion coexist harmoniously. By embracing and supporting such traditions, we not only honour the past but also secure the future of India’s rich cultural heritage.
