The Raas is a popular dance form of the Saurashtra region of Gujarat. It has many variations and is performed in different formats in each region of Gujarat. The Maniyaro Raas is the oldest and is performed by many communities. However, it is the Mehar community of the Saurashtra peninsula that has popularised the dance form.
The dancers use dandiya (sticks) and drums during the performance. The fast-paced dance is accompanied by pleasing songs. The songs begin with shehnai performance followed by the singing of verses like the chhands and dohas. The Maniyaro Raas is a martial dance performed by males and is meant to showcase the valour and bravery. The Mehars use swords and shields during the performance of the Maniyaro Raas to symbolize valour. The dance is performed to a musical taal or beat.