Gondhal comprises of a storytelling session, which involves Gondhali narrating a folklore related to the Gods interspersed with songs devoted to the goddess.
During Navaratri, Gondhal performance is a must in many Maharashtrian homes, especially in Worli Koliwada which has retained the traditional way of celebration. During the nine days, the Gondhalis (artists who perform Gondhal) are invited to homes to sing devotional songs accompanied by tuntuna, sambal and cymbals.
Gondhal comprises of a storytelling session, which involves Gondhali narrating a folklore related to the Gods interspersed with songs devoted to the goddess. For those who unaware of the Gondhal, it is the Maharashtrian version of North’s Mata Ki Chowki, where artists perform devotional songs and narrate kathas or stories for devotees.
It is said that Chhatrapati Shivaji was a great patron of this art form. He used to organise Gondhal performances in honour of Amba Bhavani of Pratapgadh.
For Shivdata Bhaye, a resident of Worli Koliwada, a Gondhala performance on the fifth day of Navratri marks a huge family gathering every year. “We have this tradition for ages. Earlier, the performance used to be staged at our ancestral house. Later we moved the base to our place of residence,” said Bhaye.
Meanwhile, a few homes in the Koliwada organised a Gondhal performance on the second day. One such family is Worlikars. “Ever since I was a child, I have seen Gondhal being performed at our home during Navratri. We organise Gondhal performances on Dwitiya. Gondhalis give performances depending on availability, though, most performances are held on panchami,” said Gaurav Worlikar.
While you may find one or two houses in every lane of Worli Koliwada where an idol of the goddess is worshiped, most houses worship a mask of the devi mounted on a ghat which is covered with a sari.
It’s time for some Gondhal music
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During Navratri, Gondhalis are invited to homes to sing devotional songs accompanied by tuntuna, sambal and cymbals
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| It is said that Chhatrapati Shivaji used to organise Gondhal performances in honour of Amba Bhavani of Pratapgadh |
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