TANA RIRI MAHOTSAV AT VADNAGAR

The state government organises the Tana Riri Festival in remembrance of two sisters Tana and Riri from Vadnagar. Both the sisters were renowned among locals for their powerful singing capability and their life story is part of Gujarati folk. During Akbar’s rule in India, his court musician Tansen, once sang Raag Deepak which is said to invoke fire and heat, causing deterioration of his health. As there was no cure except a counter musical therapy, the sister duo sang Raag Malhar for him, which cured Tansen from the effect. The Tana Riri Festival is dedicated to the rich music of India and musicians from across the nation join the festival to showcase the beauty of Indian music in various forms. Musicians are also honoured with Tana Riri award for their talent. The festival was initiated by the then chief minister Shri Narendra Modi in 2010 and in memory of sisters, a memorial has been built at Vadnagar. In 2021, over 110 artists made a world record by playing traditional instrument Bhungal, simultaneously for five minutes during festival. The artists belonged to Turi Barot and Nayak community of the state.