

Gujarat has been a field of conquering races, which settled down here from
time to time. From ancient times western gateway of India has been a place
where lot of action, reaction and interaction between various ethnic and
linguistic forces has taken place, which in turn resulted in the synthesis
of many races and culture. Different races brought with them different
political institutions, unique social customs, varied cultures and creeds.
The Aryans came by land, Persians, Arabs and Africans came by sea through
Saurashtra ports for shelter, trade and at times, conquest. Then just before
and after Chinese era, lords of Kunanas, Hunas and other tribes descended on
Gujarat. The coming of these foreigners resulted in the fusion of various
cultures and traditions.
The cultural diversity of Gujarat
The people of Kachha, a low and arid region with less than 15 inches of
annual rainfall are hardy and endowed with a rare spirit of enterprise and a
wonderful gift for business organization.
The people of peninsular Saurashtra are artistic and have a wealth of
romantic and devotional literature.
The people of North Gujarat are simple, sober and more practical in their
outlook.
In contrast, the people of Southern Gujarat are soft, pleasure loving,
sophisticated and vivacious in their outlook.
The population of the highlands and the borderlands is wholly tribal but
hardy and simple.

All forms of arts and crafts in Gujarat
reflect the aggressive individuality and religious impulses of an average
Gujarati and his religious impulses. This very emotion has motivated the
individual to tune stone, brass, bronze, clay wood etc. into life like
objects that speak their own language. The various forms of arts and crafts
in Gujarat include
Sculpture and miniature painting
Calligraphy
Music and Stage Art
Dance
Wood Craving
Stone Carving
Metal Work
Pottery
Printing & Embroidery