The Garbi-lamp, illustrated in the
reproduction on the opposite page, is a good example of metalware and
will refresh happy memories of the old tradition of original garba.
In the folk art of Gujarat, Garba and Garbi occupy a special place of
pride. This Garbi lamp of brass, made in Gujarat, is one, around which,
during the auspicious nights of the Navaratri festival, ladies dance in
circles, singing garbas or songs praising the Deity Amba (the mother
goddess) or garbis on the rythm of clapping. The lamp in this collection
is so designed as to have a peacock in the centre and twentyseven lamps
which can be lighted in a circle.
The reoccurance of ancient art forms and religious/ritualistic
practices in the modern period makes India a country which is as ancient
as it is new. Every in- dividual has his own religion and aesthetic
taste: thus variety of style, fashions and customs is the name of India. -
Padma Sudhi
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