Jaipur, Jan. 20 -- Gavri, a traditional 40-day ritual of Rajasthan's Bhil tribe, might have been overlooked by mainstream society over the years, but it always exemplifies a 'democratic' and 'inclusive' culture, former Indian Administrative Service officer Aditi Mehta said on Monday. "Many mainstream societies feel that the Gavri is similar to many folk performances in North India, and it is only about mythology. However, the Bhil community finds it completely wrong. They formed the stories and narratives in their own way, which the mainstream has overlooked over the years. There is still barely any awareness. But, Gavri is extremely democratic and inclusive," she said. Mehta was in conversation with historian and architect Rima Hooja in a session titled 'Gavri of the Mewar Bhils: Playing with the goddess' at the 19th Jaipur Literature Festival on Monday. Bhils, who mainly live in southern Rajasthan, perform Gavri-a form of local dance drama-during a 40-day carnival every year. "Gavri transcends caste and class boundaries and brings together the entire Bhil community with their neighbouring caste groups. These are also known as mahina ka khel, which is performed for the goddess, Gorkhiya Mata, whose favoured offering or Chandawa is humour, parody, fun, song, and dance," Mehta said....