Maher Raas
We are the premier Maher Raas Performing Arts Group. Established before the 1950s we have been showcasing the culturally unique and traditional Maher Raas at public and private functions for generations. Our unique non-profit making status helps those that are less fortunate to achieve a better quality of life.
Maher Raas Group, Bakharla, Gujarāt, India.
Our History
Lets clear a few things up before we start. Maher Raas Group refers to the collection of performers (usually made up of individuals from the Maher cast) whilst Maher Raas refers to the Raas (folk dance) that is performed by the Maher Raas Group. Maher Raas is also known as Maniyaro Raas and the two terms are interchangeable primarily within the Maher cast, although the term Maher Raas is much more widely used term outside the Maher Cast. Folklore history denotes that the first Maher Raas Group was formed in the early 1950's (or earlier) in the gham of Bakharla though Maher Raas has been played in Bakharla for hundreds of years. It is well documented in Gujarāti Indian communities that Maher Raas in Bakharla Gham is historically mentioned to perform the best true display of Maher Raas in the whole of India and probably beyond. Our international recognition comes from having our Maher Raas Group perform outside of India and of particular noteworthy performance was in Russia with the then Indian Prime Minister's entourage (Circa. 1986).
Today
Our forefathers have ensured that despite all the modern advances we diligently continue our moral duty to preserve, protect and promote our cultural history. Thus today our Maher Raas Group in Bakharla remains in existence and thrives symbolising our rich cultural heritage which is keenly supported by youths showing determination to learn historical traditions. With group players from in-and-around Bakharla tending to their working / business activities during the day, practicing frequently tends to be in the late evenings and weekends to maintain perfection. As a time honoured tradition we’ve been performing Maher Raas (or Maniyaro Raas) at weddings, engagements, Navratri Festivals and other public & private functions. The advent of the Internet has given us a new platform upon which to perform which includes this informative website and our associated entertaining social media channels, which seek to reflect our public persona and sharing our performances.
Our Famous Maniyaro Raas
The Maniyaro Raas that you should see playing in the background (not on mobile phones) is the soul of and synonymous with the Maher cast and is enacted using small plain wooden sticks known as Dandiyas typically 1.5ft long. Traditionally played out with the addition of background music provided by the Dhol (similar to a two-face drum), Sarnai (similar to a Clarinet) and in these modern times there is also a vocalist singing a gutsy song (with the aid of a Harmonium) to match the beat and raise the tempo. The Maniyaro Raas includes various different rhythmic stepping moves, which includes lots of low & high speed 360° circular/rotating movements, leaping around 3 feet above ground level, etc. All players (between 12 and 16 pairings) taking part to complete all of the choreographed moves syncronised thus adding to the excitement. The costumes we wear for Maniyaro Raas are crisp white clothes: A long sleeved top that is fastened by front facing drawstrings (called an Angdi), the bottoms are loose at the waist whilst tight fitting around the ankles (called an Choini) – Pagdi (could be associated as a Turban though not in the strictest sense), a Red sash going across the chest and back (starting from front top left), a small necklace made out of red beads (of special tree) & shaped gold beads.
Maniyaro Raas and Bakharla.
Our Group of Performers
These brothers are just some of our performers in our group that are always keen to take part, display creative skills and continue our famous traditions.
Exceptionally talented performers.
Lakhanshibhai V. Khunti
Pramukh & RaasRambhai V. Khunti
Up-Pramukh & RaasPopatbhai S. Khunti
FacilitatorSureshbhai Odedra
cinematographyJayeshbhai D. Jethwa
dholliParbatbhai Ranavaya
Gayk KalakarHarbhambhai G. Odedra
rAAS & LolliRanmalbhai H. Khunti
Raas, Talwar & LolliHajabhai L. Khunti
Raas, Talwar & LolliBalubhai D. Khunti
RaasDhirubhai L. Khunti
RaasDhirubhai V. Khunti
RaasSarmanbhai R. Khunti
Raas & TalwarRajubhai V. Khunti
RaasRamabhai N. Odedra
RaasRambhai B. Khunti
RaasRambhai H. Khunti
RaasDudabhai N. Odedra
RaasRamdebhai L. Khunti
RaasRanjitbhai L. Odedra
RaasRajshibhai D. Khunti
Raas, Talwar & LolliRajubhai K. Odedra
RaasVimanbhai S. Khunti
RaasNagajanbhai B. Jadeja
RaasLakhmanbhai N. Khunti
RaasJivabhai M. Odedra
RaasPratapbhai V. Khunti
RaasRajabhai S. Khunti
RaasRambhai N. Khunti
RaasNaughanbhai K. Khunti
RaasBhimabhai Khunti
Raas & Lathi DarBharatbhai G. Khunti
RaasOur Charitable Work
In many respects our charitable work can only be facilitated by those who invite us to perform our shows at their functions. Each performance we enthusiastically complete brings us a small financial reward which we use to help those that are less fortunate to achieve a better quality of life. Our help extends to families and individuals as well as cattle that have been injured in roadside accidents. Everyone in our group is authorised to commit 5000 rupees to befitting causes without prior approval and with that in mind we look forward to your continued generosity as well as seeing you at one of our performances in the near future. Take a look at some of the numbers below and see how you've helped to make a difference to ordinary people's lives (Financial and data figures are updated annually).
Only together we can make a difference.
Rupees Raised
Shows Performed
Families Helped
Donated To Good Causes
Guests Entertained
Hospital Treatment Paid
Kilometres Travelled
Cups Of Chai!
Our Shows
Astounding displays of theatre and physical prowess, our group of performers accomplish the spectacularly traditional Maher Raas and its accompaniments with perfect choreography and thunderous background music that evokes the spirit of our customs in stunning performances.
Maher Raas is a culturally unique and awe-inspiring show.
Maniyaro Raas
Our showcase event played out with the addition of heart thumping music and vocals to match leaving the audience mesmerised.
Talwar
Twisting and simultaneously leaping body movements and spinning two swords fast with the hands accompanied by background music.
Lolli
With the Dholl beating, two or four team players are leaping over 3ft in the air from the ground-up using just pure body momentum.
Lathi Dar
Inspiring respect through the swift movement of the heavy Lathis whilst preserving balance and composure. Lathi Dar is a highly specialised skill.
Krishna Raas
Featuring unique and traditional folk music combined with Krishna Raas which will evoke memories of the times gone by. One to see and enjoy.
Vocal Artist
Our vocalist, Parbatbhai Ranavaya, delivers a variety of measured recitative compositions delivered with beautiful expressivity.
Gallery
Photos and videos of our performances will show you nostalgic passions that have passed through generations and which are very much alive today. Don’t take our word for it, just browse through our display of photos and videos below and click to enlarge a photo or play a video and see for yourself.
Artistic flair, grace and poise.
Our Message
Dear friends, Thank you for taking the time to visit our website. I'm pleased to say that in 2010 both Rambhai and I were elected as Up-Pramukh and Pramukh of our prestigious Maher Raas Group in Bakharla. Together with the rest of group members we take immense pride in every aspect of the cultural traditions and charitable status that we continue to take forward. With that responsibility upon us we are indeed honoured to be entrusted to serve our historic gham of Bakharla.
At least as long as our Gham's history dates back we've been performing shows at festivals such Holi & Navratri, weddings, engagements and other appropriate public and private events. Please contact us to discuss your personal requirements and help our charitable causes.
Lakhanshibhai V. Khunti & Rambhai V. Khunti
Contact us & Media Info.
To arrange a performance by our world famous group, please call us on the telephone numbers listed below, send us a message through the contact form below or via our email address, or just message us via our social media channels.
For Media Enquires. Representatives of Maher Raas are available for in-person interviews by prior arrangement throughout the world and selected Maher Raas events are open to media by appointment, including tours, discussion forums and performances. To set up an interview or or get more information, email us at - u2us@maherraas.org.
Our Address
- Lakhanshibhai V. Khunti and Rambhai V. Khunti
- Maher Raas Group
Bakharla Chowk,
Bakharla, Porbandar,
Gujarāt, 360579, India - +91 9879898688 and +91 9712493244
- u2us@maherraas.org
- www.maherraas.org
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