|
The
Bhanjaras of Hyderabad
20 x
26", acrylic
on paper
"The Lambaris, Rabaris, and Bhanjaras are all groups of
nomadic Indian gypsies. As a
child, I remember seeing them set up camps near the dilapidated
ruins of old Hyderbadi palaces of the Nizams. The idea of their
nomadic life and adventure would fill me with such thrill and
excitement.
Bhanjara
women embroidered their colourful dresses with mirrors that glistened
in the sun. They wore backless blouses with heavy bone bangles on
their upper arms and lots and lots of silver jewelry.
Many also carried parrots in cages who picked tarot cards and
told your future."
In some
legends, the Bhanjaras originally came from Rajasthan.
Following armies, they became suppliers to the forces, providing
food and information, to either or both of the warring
parties. Today campfire songs are still sung about their
daring exploits. The men, lean and muscular, the women
vibrantly attired, all possessing the dignity of their Rajasthani
ancestors. |
