How often do you find a people who don't just practice an art, but truly make it an integral part of their customs and lives? Kalbelias- the mysterious folk dancers of Rajasthan certainly fit the bill. But how much do you really know about them?
Usually recognized as a type of gypsy community native to Rajasthan, Kalbelias stand vastly distinguished compared to their contemporary nomadic tribes. Shifting constantly alongside the outskirts of villages in their makeshift deras, snakes (Cobra in particular) used to be the backbone of their economy.
Whenever a stray snake sneaked into a house, a Kalbelia (also called Sapera) was sent for to catch and take it away. They, in turn, kept the larger ones in cane baskets and released the smaller ones back to the forest. Their livelihood was earned primarily from street shows: a charming music played with a been or pungi and a sensuous dance performance built around the snake attraction. If the western world stereotyped India for ages as a land of Snake charmers and Elephants, you can thank these enigmatic performers for it.
Following the Wildlife Act of 1972, Kalbelias had to transition to their eponymous art form as the chief source of livelihood. The most recognized performer to have mastered this challenging dance form is Gulabo Sapera- an internationally acclaimed artist, former Big Boss 5 contestant (don't ask why) and a Padma Shri awardee in 2016. When she performs on stage, she transforms as if into the living embodiment of their serpent deity herself. The iconic image of a live wire lady adorned in silver and ivory with her swirling black skirt, boasting of humanly impossible flexibility- must surely ring a bell in mind.
Kalbelia girls literally practice dance moves which defy human physiology, starting from a very early age. While the men have mastered the knowledge of local flaura and fauna, treating common snake bites and associated ailments. Gradually joining the mainstream lifestyle, Kalbelias have now their own villages and Panchayats. As for the very art they are recognized for, it's barely surviving, largely due to the fascinated western artists. Scores of them have stayed over in India, learnt the dance and now perform it across the globe passionately.
One of these days, when you pass through a gypsy village somewhere in Northern India, keep an eye out. If you come across a carefree Kalbelia performance, rejoice and capture that magical moment. It will be one of those rare cherished sights you will ever behold in life.
These informative tales are amazingly fascinating.