Maharashtrian Mangala Gouri Vrat - A traditional games and aerobics
In Mariam Thimma Sagar-MTS Colony, Karwar Road Hubli, Karnataka, during Sravana maasa, Smt. Chhhaya Sunkad mami and other Marathi-speaking mamis (that's how we addressed all regardless of caste, creed, or religion) would wear beautiful Nauvari Maharashtrian sarees, nath-nose pins, jewelry, and chuda-hair tied in a bun. In addition to singing, they would execute what could be described as "kind acrobatics" by twirling, twisting waists, holding hands, and frog-leaping. The Indian months of July and August, known as Shravana or Sravan Masa, are auspicious times. Married ladies, in particular, practice a ceremony known as Mangala Gouri Vrat. However, Maharashtra is unlike the other Indian states in its unique take on the Mangala Gouri vrataa. One of the best Vrats, or fasts, is the Shravan Mangala Gauri Vrat, also known as Mangala Gauri puja. Married and single women in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and a handful of other states and communities in Maharashtra observ...