Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan, or the Central and Western Rajput States of India v2.c27.s2.78

v2.c27.s2.78

The Rāsmandal Dance.—This mystic dance, the rasmandal, appears analogous to the Pyrrhic dance, or the fire-dance of the Egyptians. The movements of those who personate the deity and his fair companions are full [544] of grace, and the dialogue is replete with harmony.² The Chaubes³ of Mathura and Vindravana have considerable reputation as vocalists ; and the effect of the modulated and deep tones of the adult blending with the clear treble of the juvenile performers, while the time is marked by the cymbal or the soothing monotony of the tabor, accompanied occasionally by the murali or flute, is very pleasing.