RABARI TATTOOZ
Ancient Tribal Tattoos from Gujarat & Rajasthan – Now in Mumbai
Rabari tattoos – known as godhna – are one of the oldest surviving tattoo traditions in India. They come from the Rabari community, a nomadic tribe from Gujarat and Rajasthan, who have been hand-poking these intricate symbols into skin for centuries. Every motif means something. Every line is a language.
Traditionally worn by Rabari women, these tattoos marked marital status, spiritual identity, and protection from evil. They were not chosen for aesthetics – they were earned through life. The scorpion that wards off harm. The sun that sustains all living things. The weighing scale that demands justice. Each symbol a story permanently worn.
At Ace Tattooz, we specialise in custom Rabari-inspired tattoos that honour the tradition behind the art. Whether you want a single symbol on your wrist or a full ankle composition, we create each piece from scratch – no templates, no copying – in consultation with you about what you want to carry on your skin.
Frequently asked questions
What is a trajva tattoo?
Trajva is the Gujarati word for the traditional tattoos of the Rabari and Mer communities of Kutch and Rajasthan. They are built from dots and fine lines into geometric motifs – scorpions, camels, suns and borders – and were traditionally worn as permanent jewellery that could never be taken away.
Is godna the same as a Rabari tattoo?
No. Trajva is the Rabari and Mer tradition of Gujarat and Rajasthan. Godna is the tattoo tradition of tribal and Dalit communities in Northern and Central India – the Gond, Baiga, Dusadh, Oraon and others. They are separate traditions with different motifs, regions and meanings, and the names are not interchangeable.
How much does a Rabari tattoo cost in Mumbai?
It depends on size, placement and whether it is hand-poked or machine work. A single small symbol starts low; a full ankle or forearm composition is priced by the session. Send us a WhatsApp with a rough idea and placement and we will give you a real number.
Can men get Rabari tattoos?
Yes. In the Rabari tradition men were tattooed too – most commonly the camel, on the back of the right hand or the shoulder. It was a smaller vocabulary than the women’s, but it existed.