Abhaneri Festival

‘Abhaneri festival’ is named after the village Abhaneri in the Dausa district which is around 90 km from Jaipur on the Agra road. This two-day festival has gained immense popularity amongst the tourists around the globe. This year, it will commence from 17th September to 19th September with various Rajasthani & local folk performances like Kachhi Ghori, Kalbeliya, Ghoomar, and Bhawai. Festival was initiated by Rajasthan Tourism in 2008, it is of great significance for Rajasthan. The village of Abhaneri was originally named Abha Nagri, meaning "city of brightness”. The place is popular for the Chand Baori-step well, one of the largest step wells built over a thousand years ago. Be a part of the celebrations at Abhaneri and dip into the rustic charm of traditional Rajasthani music.

History of Abhaneri Festival
Abhaneri village is thriving despite its minuscule size, since 9th century. It had great value in terms of historic elements and social beauty. This is very clear, thanks to the sculptures and structures of ancient times. The main element of all is the step well, which holds more than 2500 steps, built in perfect symmetry. One need to descend 20 m to reach the bottom of the well. The wells were built in a strategic manner to store as much water as possible during monsoon and to serve as a public arena for womenfolk to enjoy, during summer season. Indication of this festival can be found in many historic monuments, which were built thousands of years ago. Some believe that the festival welcomes monsoon.

Events in Abhaneri Festival
This festival is perfect for planning a short getaway especially from Delhi and neighbouring areas to experience the colour, vibrancy and richness of Rajasthan. The range of attractions here will immerse you in their rustic charm and engulf you in its warm hospitality. Look out for the following:

Kalbelia Dance
This traditional snake-charmer dance is performed to make any joyous occasion in Rajasthan. Sensuous moves, rhythmic beats and an exotic aura is sure to make you tap a few steps to its tunes.

Langa Singing
Performed by the Manganiyars with their lyrics speaking of the stories of valour of Alexander the Great, the rajas and maharajas of Rajasthan, Langa singing of Rajasthan is world renowned. Singers, poets and musicians invoke the blessings of Krishna to play enthralling music on percussion instruments, ghungroos and sarangi.

Kachhi Ghodi Dance
How can one miss this famous folk dance of Rajasthan, performed by male dancers on dummy horses? They carry naked swords in their hands, sing of the heroic deeds of Bavaria bandits of Shekhawati region and even perform acts of daredevilry such as playing with fire. The upbeat vibe of the drums at this festival is sure to enliven up even the most mundane of times.

Bhawai Dance
The Bhawai folk dance of Rajasthan has skilled women dancers in bright ghagra-cholis and silver neckpieces and armlets, performing twirling dance while balancing a pile of pots. It is a must-watch while visiting Abhaneri festival.

Raas Leela
Varied performances on the lives of Radha and Krishna are depicted through Raas Leela.

Puppet Shows
Puppetry is an art which is widely practised in Rajasthan for quite long. Witness interesting stories enacted through expressive puppets with their animated movement and gestures.