Set at the edge of the Thar desert, the imperial city of Jodhpur
echoes with tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the desert.
Once the capital of the Marwar state , it was founded in 1459 A.D.
by Rao Jodha-chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs who claimed to be
descendants of Rama - the epic hero of the Ramayana.
The massive 15th century A.D. Mehrangarh
Fort looms on the top of a rocky hill, soaring 125 Mts. Above the
plains. The city is encompassed by a high wall -10 km long with 8
gates and innumerable bastions.
A major trade centre of the 16th century
A.D. the fortress-city of Jodhpur is now the second largest city of
Rajasthan.
While the graceful palaces , forts and temples strewn
throughout the city bring alive the historic grandeur, exquisite
handicrafts , folk dances music and the brightly attired people lend
a romantic aura to the city.
The jumble of wide winding streets are flanked with
pavement stalls.
The lifestyle in jodhpur is unusually fascinating
with folks wearing lovely multihued costumes,artistically designed.
Women folk wear wide gathered skirts and a hip length jacket, with
three quarter length sleeves , covering the front and back. The
colorful turbans worn by the men folk add more color to the city .
It was from here that the popularity worn baggy - tight , horse
riding trousers- ‘ Jodhpurs’ took their name.
Shopping in Jodhpur bazaars is a heady experience
with a colorful display of the rich collection of exquisite
handicrafts. The tie and dye fabric, embroidered ‘jutis’ or slippers
in suede, cancel skin, velvet and more color to the city.it was form
here that the popularly worn baggy-tight horse riding trousers,-"
Jodhpurs" ,took their name.
Countless festivities celebrate the rich past and
culture of the princely state. The Marwar Festival held annually is
one such spectacular bonanza.
Jodhpur,
India
