arutavade

Arutavade is a genre of Marathi folk music that originates from the Indian state of Maharashtra. It is a type of devotional music that focuses on the worship of deities and the performances are often accompanied by dance and other forms of entertainment. The name Arutavade literally translates to "according to rules" or "as prescribed", which refers to the strict codes of conduct followed by the performers.

Arutavade music is characterized by its unique blend of cultural and artistic elements. It typically involves the recitation of devotional hymns, known as abhangs, and traditional folk songs, called lavani. The performances often feature use of percussion instruments such as dholki and mridangam, and are accompanied by elaborate costumes and makeup. Arutavade is also known for its dynamic and expressive dance styles, which are said to evoke strong emotions in the audience.

Historically, Arutavade was performed by traveling troupes of musicians and dancers who would travel from village to village, entertaining the local people and spreading the message of devotion. The genre was particularly popular in the cities and towns of Maharashtra during the 18th and 19th centuries. Although its popularity has declined somewhat in modern times, Arutavade continues to be an important part of Maharashtra's cultural heritage and is still performed at various festivals and events throughout the state.