QUE. Gujarat is very famous throughout the world for its art and culture, but in recent times the folk culture of Gujarat has been gradually fading away. In the context of this issue, write a letter to the editor of the newspaper *Kakhag* enclosing a discussion article that presents the concerns and possible solutions.

Ans.

 Ch. I. J.

 Address – 1

 Date

To,

The Editor,

A.B.C Newspaper,

Address – 2

Subject: Request to publish the enclosed discussion article

Respected Sir,

I respectfully wish to state that Gujarat is very famous throughout the world for its art and culture, but in recent times the folk culture of Gujarat has been gradually fading away. I humbly request you to publish the enclosed discussion article presenting arguments on this issue in your esteemed newspaper so that public awareness may be created.

Yours faithfully,

        A.B.C

Enclosure: Discussion Article

The Fading Folk Culture of Gujarat

Nature has blessed Gujarat with a rich geographical and cultural heritage, which gives Gujarat a place among the important regions of the country and the world that possess a rich folk culture. Gujarat has a variety of folk dances, folk songs, wedding songs, folk fairs, traditional musical instruments, Charani literature, traditional attire, cuisine, customs and traditions, all of which add pride to the identity of Gujarat. However, due to changing circumstances, folk culture is now struggling to preserve its very existence.

Traditional theatrical forms such as Bhavai are now on the verge of extinction or have become very limited. In earlier times, decorative tattooing was practised, but with the passing of the older generation, this folk art is also disappearing. Women used to spend their leisure time doing embroidery, but with the beginning of the digital age, the younger generation now shows very little interest in it. Just as the dialect changes every twelve villages, the attire also changed from region to region and from community to community. A person’s identity could once be recognized by his turban and traditional dress, but in the present time, traditional attire is seen only on rare occasions. Otherwise, jeans and denim have established their dominance. Many such traditions of folk culture are gradually disappearing, and this is certainly a matter of concern for society as a whole.

This is a unique kind of problem that demands a unique kind of solution. The younger generation will have to come forward and work to preserve and develop this rich heritage. At the same time, elders, parents, and social organizations must also accept the responsibility of preserving and promoting our culture. We must also accept that change is the law of nature, but by incorporating a few new elements into old traditions according to the demands of modern times, the younger generation can be attracted and encouraged to take an interest in them.