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Gujarati people facts for kids

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India Gujaratis
Portrait Gandhi.jpg
Total population
c. 40 to 60 million
Regions with significant populations
 India: States of Gujarat, Maharashtra 45.5 million
More than 40% of Asian Indians
Languages
Gujarati
Religion
Hinduism, Jainism, Zoroastrianism (see Parsis), Islam, Christianity

Gujarati people, often called Gujaratis, are a group of people who speak the Gujarati language. They originally come from the state of Gujarat in India. Many Gujaratis still live in India, but you can also find large Gujarati communities all over the world!

Who Are Gujaratis?

Gujaratis are people whose families come from the Indian state of Gujarat. They speak Gujarati, which is an ancient language. This group includes many different communities and traditions.

Where Do Gujaratis Live?

Most Gujaratis live in the state of Gujarat in India. You can also find many in Maharashtra, another Indian state. But Gujaratis have moved all over the world! Large communities live in the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and countries in East Africa like Tanzania and South Africa. They have also settled in places like Pakistan, Malaysia, Fiji, and Trinidad and Tobago.

Gujaratis Around the World

In some cities, like Jersey City in the USA, there are areas known as "Little Gujarat." These places are vibrant centers for Gujarati culture. They have shops, restaurants, and temples that celebrate their heritage.

Gujarati Culture and Traditions

Gujarati culture is rich and colorful. It includes unique music, dances, and festivals. Food is also a very important part of their culture.

Language and Religion

The main language spoken by Gujaratis is Gujarati. It is one of the official languages of India. Most Gujaratis follow Hinduism. However, many also practice Jainism, Islam, Zoroastrianism (especially the Parsis), and Christianity.

Festivals and Dance

One of the most famous Gujarati festivals is Navaratri. During Navaratri, people perform energetic folk dances like Garba and Dandiya. These dances involve spinning and clapping, often with colorful sticks.

Gujarati Food

Gujarati food is mostly vegetarian and known for its sweet and savory flavors. A popular dish is Vedhmi, which is a sweet lentil-stuffed flatbread. Meals often include a variety of breads, vegetables, and lentil dishes.

Famous Gujaratis

Many famous people from different fields have Gujarati roots. They have made big contributions to India and the world.

Leaders and Thinkers

  • Mahatma Gandhi: He was a very important leader who helped India gain independence. He developed the idea of Satyagraha, which means non-violent resistance.
  • Muhammad Ali Jinnah: He was a key figure in the creation of Pakistan and became its first Governor-General.
  • Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel: He was India's first Deputy Prime Minister. He played a big role in uniting India after independence.
  • Narendra Modi: He is the current Prime Minister of India.
  • Morarji Desai: He also served as a Prime Minister of India.
  • Dayananda Saraswati: He was an important Hindu philosopher and founder of the Arya Samaj movement.

Scientists and Business Leaders

Artists and Performers

Philanthropists

  • Abdul Sattar Edhi: A famous philanthropist who founded the Edhi Foundation in Pakistan, known for its social welfare services.

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Gujarati people Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.