The Rajasthani’s love for colour and joyous celebrations is proved
by the elaborate rituals and the gay abandon with which he
surrenders himself to the numerous fairs and festivals of the
region. In addition to the festivals celebrated by the Hindus,
Muslims and others, there are also the traditional fairs.
There are animal fairs, there are religious fairs and there are
fairs to mark the changing seasons. In fact, celebrations occur
almost round the year and are a splendid opportunity for the visitor
to gain an insight into the life of the Rajasthani. Other than the
traditional fairs, recently established festivals which involve
elephants, camel races, dance and music have been specially
organized for the tourists. Among the better known fairs of
Rajasthan are:
Nagaur Fair, Nagaur
(Jan-Feb.): Essentially an animal fair, it provides
an opportunity to participate in some of the local sports.
Desert Festival, Jaisalmer (Jan-Feb.): One of
the most popular of all festivals it is a journey into the heart of
the desert, the golden city of Jaisalmer that has a charm of its
own. A true show on the sands which attracts even the much traveled
visitor.
Baneshwar Fair, Baneshwar (Jan-Feb.): A
religious festival with simple and traditional rituals. This fair is
the centre of attraction of a large number of tribes from the
neighboring states of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat who join their
brethren from Rajasthan in offering prayers to Lord Shiva.
Gangaur, Jaipur (March-April): A
festival devoted to Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. It
is time for young girls to dress up in their finery and pray for
grooms of their choice while the married women pray for the
well-being of their husbands. This 18-day festival is laced with
various activities and culminates in a grand procession marking the
arrival of Shiva to escort his bride home.
Mewar Festival, Udaipur (March-April): A
festival to welcome the spring season. There is song, dance,
processions, devotional music and fireworks where almost everybody
participates.
Elephant Festival, Jaipur (March-April): A
festival to celebrate Holi, this is a great occasion for the visitor
to watch several elephant sports and also play this festival of
colors. A show is organized with the elephants turning out in their
best finery.
Urs Ajmer Sharif,
Ajmer
(According to Lunar Calendar): Held in the memory of the revered
Sufi saint Khawaja Moinuddin Chisti, it is an occasion for
thousands of believers to congregate at the shrine and offer their
prayers. All of Ajmer seems to take on a festive air and several
programs are organized to mark the festivals.
India
