Category Archives: Fair Festival & Events

Fair Festival & Events, General Information

The Festival of Lights History and Significance of Diwali

Deepawali or Diwali is the biggest and the brightest of all Hindu festivals. It is the festival of lights: deep means “light” and avali “a row,” or “a row of lights.” Diwali is marked by four days of celebration, which literally illuminates the country with its brilliance and dazzles all with its joy.

The Diwali festival occurs in late October or early November. It falls on the 15th day of the Hindu month, Kartik, so it varies every year.

Each of the four days in the festival of Diwali is separated by a different tradition. What remains true and constant is the celebration of life, its enjoyment, and a great sense of goodness.

THE ORIGINS OF DIWALI

Historically, Diwali can be traced back to ancient India. It most likely began as an important harvest festival. However, there are various legends pointing to the origin of Diwali.

Some believe it to be the celebration of the marriage of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, with Lord Vishnu. Others use it as a celebration of her birthday as Lakshmi is said to have been born on the new moon day of Kartik.

In Bengal, the festival is dedicated to the worship of Mother Kali, the dark goddess of strength. Lord Ganesha—the elephant-headed god, and symbol of auspiciousness and wisdom—is also worshiped in most Hindu homes on this day. In Jainism, Deepawali has the added significance as marking the great event of Lord Mahavira attaining the eternal bliss of nirvana.

Diwali also commemorates the return of Lord Rama (along with Ma Sita and Lakshman) from his fourteen-year-long exile and vanquishing the demon-king Ravana. In joyous celebration of the return of their king, the people of Ayodhya, the capital of Rama, illuminated the kingdom with earthen diyas (oil lamps) and burst crackers.

THE FOUR DAYS OF DIWALI-

DHANTERAS: THE TRADITION OF GAMBLING

Some people refer to Diwali as a five-day festival because they include the festival of Dhanteras (dhan meaning “wealth” and teras meaning “13th”). This celebration of wealth and prosperity occurs two days before the festival of lights.

The tradition of gambling on Diwali also has a legend behind it. It is believed that on this day, Goddess Parvati played dice with her husband Lord Shiva. She decreed that whosoever gambled on Diwali night would prosper throughout the ensuing year.

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF LIGHTS AND FIRECRACKERS

All of the simple rituals of Diwali have a significance and a story to tell. Homes are illuminated with lights and firecrackers fill the skies as an expression of respect to the heavens for the attainment of health, wealth, knowledge, peace, and prosperity.

According to one belief, the sound of firecrackers indicates the joy of the people living on earth, making the gods aware of their plentiful state. Still another possible reason has a more scientific basis: the fumes produced by the firecrackers kill many insects and mosquitoes, which are plentiful after the rains.

THE SPIRITUAL SIGNIFICANCE OF DIWALI

Beyond the lights, gambling, and fun, Diwali is also a time to reflect on life and make changes for the upcoming year. With that, there are a number of customs that revelers hold dear each year.

Give and Forgive. It is common practice that everyone forgets and forgives the wrongs done by others during Diwali. There is an air of freedom, festivity, and friendliness everywhere.

Rise and Shine. Waking up during the Brahmamuhurta (at 4 a.m. or 1 1/2 hours before sunrise) is a great blessing from the standpoint of health, ethical discipline, efficiency in work, and spiritual advancement. It is on Deepawali that everyone wakes up early in the morning. The sages who instituted this custom must have cherished the hope that their descendants would realize its benefits and make it a regular habit in their lives.

Unite and Unify. Diwali is a great unifying force and it can soften even the hardest of hearts. It is a time when you will find people mingling about in joy and embracing one another with love.

Those with keen inner spiritual ears will clearly hear the voice of the sages, “O Children of God unite, and love all”. The vibrations produced by the greetings of love, which fill the atmosphere, are powerful. When the heart has considerably hardened, only a continuous celebration of Deepavali can rekindle the urgent need of turning away from the ruinous path of hatred.

Prosper and Progress. On this day, Hindu merchants in North India open their new account books and pray for success and prosperity during the coming year. Everyone buys new clothes for the family. Employers, too, purchase new clothes for their employees.

Homes are cleaned and decorated by day and illuminated by night with earthen oil lamps. The best and finest illuminations can be seen in Bombay and Amritsar. The famous Golden Temple at Amritsar is lit in the evening with thousands of lamps placed all over the steps of the big tank.

This festival instills charity in the hearts of people and good deeds are performed everywhere.

This includes Govardhan Puja, a celebration by Vaishnavites on the fourth day of Diwali. On this day, they feed the poor on a most incredible scale.

Illuminate Your Inner Self. The lights of Diwali also signify a time of inner illumination. Hindus believe that the light of lights is the one that steadily shines in the chamber of the heart. Sitting quietly and fixing the mind on this supreme light illuminates the soul. It is an opportunity to cultivate and enjoy eternal bliss.

FROM DARKNESS UNTO LIGHT…

In each legend, myth, and story of Deepawali lies the significance of the victory of good over evil. It is with each Deepawali and the lights that illuminate our homes and hearts, that this simple truth finds new reason and hope.

From darkness unto light—the light that empowers us to commit ourselves to good deeds, that which brings us closer to divinity. During Diwali, lights illuminate every corner of India and the scent of incense sticks hangs in the air, mingled with the sounds of firecrackers, joy, togetherness, and hope.

Diwali is celebrated around the globe. Outside of India, it is more than a Hindu festival, it’s a celebration of South-Asian identities. If you are away from the sights and sounds of Diwali, light a diya, sit quietly, shut your eyes, withdraw the senses, concentrate on this supreme light, and illuminate the soul.

Celebrate Diwali in Rajasthan

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Rajasthan Tour Package, Fair Festival & Events, Travel Deals

Rajasthan Diwali Tour

Duration : 04 Nights / 05 Days
Destinations Covered : Jaipur – Pushkar – Udaipur

1 Day, :  Arrival in Jaipur
Jaipur: Founded in AD 1727 by Sawai Jaisingh II, Jaipur the capital of Rajasthan is popularly known as the Pink City with broad avenues and spacious gardens. The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is steeped in history and culture. Here the past comes alive in magnificent forts and palaces, blushed pink, where once lived the maharajas. The bustling bazaars of Jaipur, famous for Rajasthani jewellery, fabric and shoes, This fascinating city with its romantic charm takes you to an epoch of royalty and tradition. Jaipur has been recommended in the ancient Indian treatise on architecture. Each grid consists of a square, and these have been planned so that, at the heart of the city is the City Palace. Spread around it, in rows, are public buildings, the residences of noblemen, the living and trading quarters of merchants and artisans. Straight, wide roads run through the city, while a high, crenelated wall that forms its defense is pierced with seven gateways that serve as entry points. Today, these walls may be more difficult to spot since the city has grown far beyond its original plan, but they are still there.Transfer to hotel.check in to hotel,take rest ,rest of day free for leisure, overnight stay at hotel in Jaipur.

2 Day,  : Jaipur- Diwali Celebrations at Jaipur
After breakfast visit to the impressive Amber Fort: situated on a ridge just outside Jaipur City. At the foot of the hill you will mount your caparisoned elephant for the slow but steady climb up to the main gate, making your entrance in the time honored fashion. The Fort, completed in the early 18th century, took over 100 years to build and now, although deserted, offers a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of the Moghul ruling families.
Afternoon tour of the City – “The Pink City” is spectacularly set within surrounding rugged hills, dotted with ancient ruined fortresses. Your tour will include the imposing City Palace, still home to the Maharaja although several of the rooms are now open to the public. Many antiques and artifacts belonging to the ruling family are housed here, including a collection of weaponry. You will also visit the Hawa Mahal “Palace of the Winds”, and the open-air, Jantar Mantar Observatory to see the vast astronomical instruments. Enjoy a stroll through the colourful .

3 Day,  :  Jaipur – Pushkar (145 KM – 3 HRS)
After breakfast, check out from hotel then drive to Pushkar:15kms from Ajmer, is a sacred town for the Hindus, situated 11 kms. to the North-West of Ajmer.Evidence points to its having existed during the fourth century B.C. lake in the inhospitable surroundings of a desert is no less than a miracle.Brahma is supposed to have performed sacrifice at this lake on Kartik Purnima (the full moon day of the Kartik month) hallowing the place. Sacred to Brahma, Pushkar boasts of its temple dedicated to him, which is the only one of its kind in the world.
A dip in the waters of Pushkar and worship at his temple ensure salvation. So thousands flock to Pushkar to observe the ritual on kartik Purnima, or on any of the four days preceding it. Arrive at Pushker ,transfer to hotel,check in to hotel, take rest ,Later visit the most famous is the Brahma Temple, said to be one of the few temples in the world dedicated to this deity. It’s marked by red spire, and over the entrance gateway is the hans, or goose symbol, of Brahma, who is said to have personally chosen Pushkar as its site. Also visit the Pushkar Lake. Overnight stay at hotel in Pushkar.

4 Day,  : Pushkar – Udaipur (300 KM / 6 HRS)
After breakfast, check out from hotel then drive to Udaipur, Udaipur :formally known as the city of lakes and Venice of East. Udaipur, the capital of the former princely state of Mewar is a beautiful city in Rajasthan, India. Udaipur is also referred to as the “Venice of the East” , the “Most Romantic City of India” and the “Kashmir of Rajasthan”. Udaipur the “City of Lakes” is one among the most romantic and most beautiful cities of India. The city of Dawn, Udaipur is a lovely land around the azure water lakes, hemmed in by the lush hills of the Aravalis. A vision in white drenched in romance and beauty, Udaipur city of Rajasthan state is a fascinating blend of sights, sounds and experiences – an inspiration for the imagination of the poets, painters and writers. Their reflection in the placid waters of the Lake Pichhola is an enticing sight. Enroute visiting Ranakpur temples with their beautiful carvings and the marble complex of Adinath shrine that has 1444 columns. Ranakpur is one of the most important five pilgrimage places of rajasthan, it is the pilgrimage hub of Jainism.It is known for peaceful nature of the flowers of Jainism. Arrive at Udaipur, transfer to hotel,check in to hotel,take rest,free for leisure,overnight stay at hotel at Udaipur.

5 Day,  : Udaipur
After breakfast visit to sightseeing tour of Udaipur. Enjoy picturesque lake Pichola set on the backdrop of Aravali hills, established in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh, is nick named as ‘Kashmir of Rajasthan’ or ‘Venice of the East’, owing to its natural beauty; enchanting location and picturesque surroundings. The City Palace museum, the Jagdish temple, Sahelion Ki Bari (Queen’s resort for their friends) Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandir (Folk art museum) and the Pratap Memorial. Later back to hotel .
After noon, check out from hotel & transfer airport or railway station for onwards journey.

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Rajasthan Tour Package, Camel Fair Pushkar, Fair Festival & Events

Pushkar Fair Packages

Duration : 07 Nights / 08 Days
Destinations Covered : Jaipur – Pushkar – Udaipur – Jodhpur – Jaipur

Day 1:  – Arrive in Jaipur
On reaching Jaipur, meet our representative who will assist you while taking a transfer to the hotel. Check-in to the hotel and freshen up. Later, leave for sightseeing around the city. You can begin with a visit to the City Palace which is known to be the formal residence of a royal family. After sightseeing around the palace, you can visit attractions like Chandra Mahal and Shri Govind Deo Temple. Don’t miss to visit the City Palace Museum which houses the private collection of Jaipur Maharajas. You can also visit Jantar Mantar which is a stone observatory and the largest observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh. Return back to the hotel after this long tiring day and stay overnight.

Day 2:  – Jaipur
Have your breakfast and then leave for a sightseeing tour around Jaipur. The first attraction which you visit today is the Amber Fort which is located 11 kilometers away from Jaipur. On your way, you visit the Hawa Mahal. Explore the glorious past of Rajasthan with a visit to these historical attractions. Later, you can go for shopping in the colorful bazaars of Jaipur. In the evening, you can go for a drive through the city and also visit the famous Laxmi Narayan Mandir. Return back to the hotel for dinner and have a comfortable stay at night.

Day 3 : – Jaipur To Pushkar By Road
After an early Breakfast proceed by Road to Pushkar. The Holy city of Pushkar is the Venue of the annual Pushkar fair also known as the Pushkar camel and cattle Fair or just Pushkar Mela by the locals. Reach Pushkar and Check into your hotel / Tented Camp . Afternoon Free to Explore the streets by-lanes and temples of Pushkar . Overnight at the hotel/camp

Day 4:  – Full day sightseeing at the Pushkar Fair.
After breakfast visit The Pushkar fair Grounds and see The colours, sounds, and sights of Rajasthan come alive. Watch village folk in their finery wearing bright coloured clothes, Bangles, Jewellry and trinklets, Men wearing their turbans supporting big Moustaches and smiles. Witness the trading of camels , cattle, horses and other livestock. Take a camel ride or a camel cart ride and watch performances and local sports like turban tying competition, Tug of War, Moustache competition. Evening back to hotel f/campor night stay. . ( All Cultural programmes and cultural activities can vary from day to day . The programme is finalised by Rajasthan Tourism)

Day 5:  – Pushkar – Udaipur
Have your breakfast and then check out from the hotel. Start driving towards your next destination, Udaipur. Udaipur is a beautiful city of Rajasthan, located at a distance of 283 km from Pushkar. Udaipur, the City of Lakes is well-known as the historic capital of the Mewar Kingdom. The place takes every visitor through the Rajput era. On reaching Udaipur, check-in to the hotel. In the evening, you can go for a stroll around the place. Have a comfortable stay at night.

Day 6: – Udaipur
Munch some healthy breakfast and then leave for a sightseeing tour around Udaipur. You can begin with a visit to Saheliyon-Ki-Bari. Post that, you can visit attractions like Museum of folk art which is famous for its wide collection of puppets, folk dresses, dolls, ornaments, paintings and folk musical instruments. Later, you can visit the City Palace which is known to be the biggest palace complex in India. In the evening, enjoy a boat ride at Pichola Lake which is the star attraction of Udaipur. Later, return back to the hotel for dinner and stay overnight at the hotel.

Day 7:  – Udaipur -Jodhpur
After having your breakfast this morning, leave for your next destination, Jodhpur. En-route, visit the famous Jain Temple of Ranakpur. The temple is known to have 200 pillars which are uniquely carved. The temple also has 29 halls which showcase beautiful carvings and sculptures. On reaching Jodhpur, check-in to the hotel and afternoon leave for your Jodhpur sightseeing tour. Jodhpur is a major tourist attraction in Rajasthan. The place has a number of tourist spots to offer to the travelers including Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada. Overnight stay at Hotel

Day 8:  Jodhpur – Jaipur
Have your breakfast and then drive to Jaipur, On reaching Jaipur, take a transfer to the airport/railway station to continue with your onward journey. The tour ends here..

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Rajasthan Tourism, Camel Fair Pushkar, Fair Festival & Events, Rajasthan Tour Package

Pushkar Fair 2023

Pushkar Fair 2023 The famous Pushkar fair in Rajasthan, India’s foreign tourists Dromedary( Untoni) milk products are extremely attract. Fair Dromedary( Female Camel) soap made from the milk of the attraction for the people. Skin disease is being claimed that the soap does not.

Camel milk, used medicinally for centuries by nomadic people, is the closest to human mother’s milk and contains 10 times more iron and three times more vitamin C than cow’s milk, according to The Huffington Post. Camels possess unique, powerful immune-system components, which are contained in their milk. Camel milk might potentially benefit disorders including diabetes and autism. As with any natural remedy, consult your doctor before drinking camel milk.

Many shops in the heart-shaped soap about being claimed that it will not skin allergies and skin diseases are the second problem can be overcome. Dromedary milk, coconut oil and many kinds of flavors including Dromedary( Female Camel) clay soaps are in great demand. Also muffler made of camel hair, gloves, carpets and other materials is also a massive hit.

110 to Rs 200 detergent

Dromedary (Untoni) milk soap made from 110 to 200 rupees in the Pushkar Fair is Available. VAT rates vary according to the soap. Also made from camel dung paper, diaries, cards, letter head and plenty of people are like.

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Camel Fair Pushkar, Fair Festival & Events, Pushkar Cattle fair, Pushkar Fair, Pushkar Fair Festival, Pushkar Fair Tour, Rajasthan Tourism

Things to do In Pushkar

Pushkar, a rare grouping of sand dunes, tarn, hills and wooded area, is a quaint little town around Pushkar Lake. There’s a lot more to this oasis town than the Camel fair that it is mostly linked with. Walk through the labyrinth of alleys and lanes, its bazaar and the Ghats to discover the magic of this tranquil town. A few among the many reasons to visit Pushkar include its religion – taking a dip in the holy Pushkar Lake and visiting the only Brahma Temple in the country; its natural marvels – mesmerizing sunrise and gorgeous sunset over the sand dunes and the lake; its food – cafes overlooking the lake serve a variety of food shopping – some of the best variety of silver jewellery, traditional clothes and rose products can be purchased from Pushkar’s vibrant bazaars; photography – cheerful people dressed in vibrant dresses in the surrounding villages provides ample opportunities for some amazing pictures for photography enthusiasts art – find Bhopa musicians playing Ravanhatha in the market, around the lake or the desert and Kalbelia ladies performing dance in the dunes.

The dunes around Pushkar can be best explored on a camel. Riding through the desert atop a camel is an amazing experience. It’s a bumpy but a rhythmic ride through the quiet desert, the loudest sound being the swish of camel feet on the sand. I love to chat with enthusiastic camel men who are always happy to share their stories. If you want to know about the life in a desert village, these are the best people to talk to. Hear the mesmerizing stories sitting 10 feet above the ground, gently sailing through the desert.

These slow moving camels will take you through dunes to a point from where you can watch the beautiful golden ball dipping beyond the horizon and the sky changing colour from evening red to violet and then darkness slowly engulfing the whole expanse.

You can hire camels from the fairground or can ask your hotel to arrange for one. There is an option of camel cart too if you want to enjoy the ride with your friends or family. The best time to go on the safari is before the sun sets.

If you are in Pushkar around the fair you must take a balloon ride. This gives you an chance to avoid the crowds and at the same time experience the fair. Glide gently above the crowd over the vast expanse of the dunes to get an amazing bird’s eye view of the fair and the desert. Drift over the lake and the temples of this ancient sacred town and feel the magic of floating over this motley people.

The balloon ride is usually prearranged towards the end of the fair. The best time to take a ride is at sunrise when the soft rays of the sun slowly light up the temples, Ghats and the antique buildings surrounding the lake. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience and capturing it all in the morning light is a dream-come-true for any photographer. Advance booking is recommended to get the best time slots.

Evenings at Pushkar are best spent sipping hot coffee by the lake side. Watch the day bidding farewell and a beautiful evening taking over. As the golden sun dips behind temples, the lake’s water mirrors the changing hues of the sky from blue to orange and then red and slowly black takes over transforming the day into a beautiful night.

Spend some quiet hours sitting on the stairs of the lake listening to the music coming from all directions – hymns and chimes from the temple, Negara beats from the ghat, gentle strumming of a guitar from some cafe and the sound of Ravanhatha being played by some bhopa musician sitting just next to you. While you are lost in the music, the lake turns gorgeous with the reflection of town lights and numerous stars. I love watching the day end by the lake side and being just with me; slowly pilgrims leave temples, tourists go back to the market or the hotels, sanyasis go hiding into their kutiya and you are left alone on the stairs gazing at the glittering sky and the lake. The calm cool air from the lake fills you with tranquility.

Travelers with a penchant for adventure must try jeep safaris. Jeep safari takes you through the rugged paths to explore interesting destinations of Rajasthan. Not only will you drive through barren desert landscape but you will also get an opportunity to explore the hidden charm of some of India’s most remote and colorful villages, ruins of magnificent forts and palaces, antique temples and uncommon wildlife. A refreshing dip in the local waterfall hidden in the trees refreshes you thoroughly after a tiring trail of approximately five to six hours.

Music is in the soul of Pushkar. While strolling around the lake in evenings, you can find many people learning and playing their favourite instruments. Around Gangaur ghat, look for coke-studio-fame Nathu Lal Solanki, the master drummer teaching the beats to drumming enthusiasts. You can join him and learn to play these local drums called Nagara. He still charges a negligible amount that he used to charge some 20 years back to teach Nagara. He considers this place his karmabhumi from where he has achieved the name and fame and it’s his tribute to the place and the art.

Do hike up the Ratnagiri hill in south-west of the lake if you have time. It’s a moderate hike of around 1.5 kms and takes around two hours to reach the top. Located on the top is the Savitri Devi place of worship dedicated to the wife of Lord Brahma. The breathtaking panoramic view of Pushkar town from here is worth the effort. Evening hours are best for this trek as you get an amazing sunset view from the temple.

If you like hiking and are game for some more, on a smaller hill on the northern side of Pushkar town is Gayatri Devi temple. It takes around 45 min for this trek and offers a lovely sunrise view.

Go for a good retail therapy session once you are done with all other designed activities. A good mix of ethnic and hippie culture reflects in Pushkar market. There’s a lot to shop for, so keep at least half a day exclusively for shopping. Pushkar is known for its traditional silver jewellery, ethnic clothes, leather bags and rose products. T-shirts, harem pants, wrap-arounds, kurtis, bandanas and funky accessories are also available in abundance at a very reasonable price. Do not forget to bargain to get the best prices. You can also shop for souvenirs like puppets, antique silverware or pottery stuff.

The main places to shop are Baza Bazar, Sarafa Bazar, Sadar Bazar and Kedalganj bazaar.

Pushkar is heaven for foodies with a range of roadside restaurants, rooftop cafes and eateries serving a wide variety of food. Some of the not-to-miss foods in Pushkar are malpua and kachori at Sarweshwar at mithai wali gali, Gulkand Lassi near the steps of Brahma Temple, lafa and falafel at Ganga restaurant near Rangji temple, muesli and fresh fruit juice at Sonu juice near bus stand and pizzas at La-pizzeria.

Pushkar is such a place where you can spend days just having good food and relaxing in cool cafes. Some of Pushkar’s most popular cafes are Honey & Spice, Funky Monkey Cafe and Out Of The Blue Cafe.

Collector’s Paradise is the only museum and art gallery in Pushkar where you get some rare cultural gems collected over 20 years by the recipient of numerous awards and camel decorator, Ashok Tak. The collection includes traditional dresses and textiles collected from Rajasthan, Gujarat, Pakistan and Afganistan and some rare stuff used for camel beautification. If you are fascinated by hand embroidered traditional textiles, then do take the time to go through the exhibits on display. A chat with Ashok Tak would give further insights into his journey and his passion for both camels and clothes.

The best way to relax after a fun filled day is to enjoy the Kalbelia dance performance. It is one of the most sensuous dance forms of Rajasthan performed by the lively Kalbelia tribe, a nomadic community that was essentially a community of snake-charmers until it was outlawed by the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. With their charm, unbelievably flexible serpentine shimmying and their lovely traditional black attire, they have the talent to absolutely mesmerize you. The beats and the movements will surely instigate you to join them in their dance.

Many hotels arrange the dance performances in their premises for their guests. Sai Haweli near Varah Ghat Chowk arranges this every Saturday. You can also contact the dancers directly and ask them to perform in the evening near dunes. You can find them roaming around in the market and the desert area .

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Fair Festival & Events, India Tourism

Kumbh Mela-Allahabad-2018, 2019

Kumbh Mela

Kumbh Mela is a mass Hindu pilgrimages of faith in which Hindus gather to bathe in a sacred river. It is the world’s largest religious gathering. It is held every third year at one of the four places by rotation: Haridwar, Allahabad (Prayag), Nasik and Ujjain.

Thus the Kumbh Mela is held at each of these four places every twelfth year. Ardh (“Half”) Kumbh Mela is held at only two places, Hardwar and Allahabad, every sixth year. The rivers at these four places are: the Ganges (Ganga) at Haridwar, the confluence (Sangam) of the Ganges and the Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati at Allahabad, the Godawari at Nasik, and the Shipra at Ujjain. Mini Kumbh(Magh) Mela is held every year in Allahabad only

Kumbh Mela-Allahabad-2018, 2019

The Magh (Kumbh) Mela is one of the greatest annual religious affairs for Hindus. Hindu mythology considers the origin of the Magh Mela to be the beginning of the Universe. An important occasion, the Magh (Kumbh) Mela is held every year on the banks of Triveni Sangam (the confluence of the three great rivers Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati) in Prayag near Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh.

In accordance with the traditional Hindu calendar followed in North India, this holy fair is organised every year during the Hindu month of Magh (corresponding to mid January – mid February of the Gregorian calendar); hence the name.
The Magh Mela is, however, not confined only to the month of Magh and the important bathing dates are spread over a period of 45 days. The Magh Mela is actually a smaller version of Kumbh Mela. Hence it is also known as mini Kumbh Mela. Every year, the Magh Mela commences on the day of Makkar Sankranti in January, which is the first important bathing day according to the religious Hindu calendar. It begins with multitudes of pilgrims taking a holy dip at the Sangam on auspicious dates.

A large number of people arrive here annually and stay in makeshift houses or tents at the Sangam, spending the entire month of Magh in prayers. This period is known as “Kalpvas”. Those who religiously observe the “Kalpvas” are known as “Kalpvasis”. The ancient Hindu Vedas mention a “Kalp” to be the period equal to the total number of years in the four yugas – Satyug, Treta, Dwapar and Kalyug. This adds up to several millions of years. It is said that by piously observing a “Kalpavas”, a devotee overcomes the sins in his/her previous birth and escapes the cycle of Janma(birth) and Karma (actions).

During each day of the Magh Mela, a Kalpvasi has to take a dip at the Ganges on sunrise praying to the rising sun. Majority of the Kalpvasis partake only a meal a day. After observing 12 Kalpavas, a Kalpavasi has to donate his/her bed and all his belongings (a ritual known as “Shayya Daan”).

The Uttar Pradesh government annually makes special arrangements for the devotees during this time. A greater number of buses ply to let the pilgrims have their journey in peace and without any inconvenience. A township of tents specially come up on the banks of the Sangam to provide shelter to the visiting millions who turn up from all over the country. Adequate medical and security arrangements are made to avoid any untoward incidents. “Lost and Found” camps are also set up and manned by the local police to prevent anyone getting missing during the days of the fair. Every twelfth year, the Magh Mela is transformed into the Kumbha Mela. Uttar Pradesh is flooded with millions of pilgrims who arrive here during this time to attend this grand event.

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Fair Festival & Events, Rajasthan Tour Package, Travel Deals

Rajasthan’s Best Contemporary Art Galleries

Rajasthan has undergone a rapid transformation into a burgeoning cultural capital in recent decades and the city’s art scene has benefited hugely; becoming the most vibrant and exciting on the subcontinent. The city, still called Sun city by many locals, is now home to a host of independent contemporary art galleries, which feature the work of renowned and iconic Rajasthan artists as well as cutting edge contemporary figures. We look at 10 of the best of these galleries in Rajasthan.

1. Jaipur Gallery Art chill: One of the biggest and most pioneering contemporary art galleries in Rajasthan, Artchill Art Gallery became active on the Jaipur Rajasthan art scene in 1994, as a space where upcoming Rajasthani artists could express their creativity. Today it features the work of both recognised and young, emerging Indian painters. Located at the top of the hill within Amber Fort, Jaipur’s famous heritage monument, it provides a visually and spiritually unique experience. On its premises, the Eternity Museum showcases national art treasures, such as the original artworks of Jamini Roy and Ram Kinker, alongside a collection of works by Paritosh Sen, Karmakar, Gue, Shamshad, and many other prominent Indian painters.

2. Samanvai Art Gallery Jaipur: Standing tall in the heart of the ever-busy M.I. Road in the heart of the Pink City, this contemporary art gallery draws the attention of Jaipur artists and art lovers from all over India. Established in 2003, Samanvai Art Gallery boasts a large collection of contemporary Indian paintings and modern art in oil, watercolour and mixed media by renowned and promising artists from various Indian states such as Bengal, Kerala, Goa and, of course, Rajasthan. The gallery also provides a haven for artists from across the country who wish to conduct workshops and exhibitions, organised throughout the year.

3. Naila Art Gallery Jaipur: A meeting point for art lovers and critics, Naila Art Gallery showcases the works of several distinguished artists, which range from traditional to abstract art in various mediums and eclectic styles. Managers of the gallery and accomplished artists Thakur Dushyant Singh and Thakurani Usha Sing are among them. Located within the premises of the Naila Bagh Palace, one of Jaipur’s heritage hotels, this tranquil art space provides a stunning natural environment and welcomes artists wishing to stay and work in its peaceful ambience – in fact, the gallery aims to become a peaceful space of symbiosis for artists and their audiences.

4. Modern Art Gallery Jaipur: Nestled in the lush green gardens of Ram Niwas Bagh, planned by Maharaja Ram Sigh as a famine relief project in the 19th century, this small but exquisite art gallery makes a difference. The Modern Art Gallery was added to the extensive park in 1983 as a platform to promote the state’s diverse cultural events. It showcases the exclusive works of some of the most well known sculptors and modern artists of Rajasthan. Cosy but authoritative, the gallery makes for a perfect stop on a stroll around Ram Niwas Bagh.

5. Nidhi Art Gallery Jaipur: Spread over a large area of 4000 square feet, the Nidhi Gallery for modern and contemporary art houses a vast collection of stunning canvases, water colours and graphics by established painters, as well as promising emerging artists. The gallery has so far successfully organised 21 shows, while the latest additions to its growing collection can always be viewed in the gallery’s exhibition hall. Nidhi displays art that ranges from abstract to semi-abstract, surreal to figurative, in addition to landscapes, portraits, graphic and historical works in all mediums, surfaces and sizes. In an effort to show that art is a universal language, which cuts across borders and regions, Nidhi displays the work of both Rajasthani and pan-Indian artists.

6. Adroit Art Gallery Jodhpur: An artistic blend of Indian cultural heritage which incorporates Western concepts, is the defining characteristic of Adroit Art Gallery, nestled in the heart of the Cultural Capital of Rajasthan, Jodhpur. The cosy art space inspires its artists to create inventive designs and cutting-edge quality paintings. Art seems to know no bounds here, with formats and styles as diverse as traditional Rajasthani painting, figurative art, contemporary experiment and still life. Rashmi Soni, the main artist featured at Adroit Art Gallery, creates original abstract paintings, murals and replicas.

7. Kaman Art Gallery Jodhpur: In an effort to promote innovative artistic trends and achieve a global perspective and Indian ethos within art, Kaman Art Gallery has held several significant exhibitions over the years, featuring some of the most gifted and exceptional artists on India’s contemporary art scene. Founded by Mitendra Singh, the gallery displays original artworks as well as prints and sculptures, executed in different mediums ranging from charcoal and pastels to bronze and stone. Kaman Art space successfully ventures to popularise the vibrant and eclectic art creations of brilliant Indian artists living and working across the world.

8. Palette Art Gallery Jodhpur : The first contemporary art gallery in Rajasthan, Palette Art Gallery is one of a kind, its unique collection of marvellous paintings showing off a richness of colour and idea. Visitors to the gallery soon realise that ‘art is and will remain the most astonishing activity of mankind born out of struggle between wisdom and madness, between dream and reality in our mind.’ The gallery portrays different kinds of art from all over the country, from miniature paintings, wood craft and ceramic, to iron and many more. Its inspiring collection is the fruit of its skilled and experienced artists, who are renowned not only in India but also abroad. The gallery’s meticulously designed products seem to reflect the regal Jodhpur’s complex heritage.

9. Kamal Sharma Art Gallery Udaipur: Kamal Sharma was established by an artist with a vision; the skilful and adaptable creative mind behind the venture, Kamal Sharma, took Udaipurian art one step further by developing traditional sketches and portraits into 3D paintings, using mainly oil, acrylic and watercolours. Kamal Sharma Art Gallery often hosts exhibits of its founder’s latest abstract art creations, as well as his extraordinary marble paintings and artefacts. This deeply experimental artist has participated in several national and international exhibitions in an effort to carry forward – and update – the great legacy of his ancestors.

10. Pristine Art Gallery Udaipur: Pristine Art Gallery exhibits a wide-ranging collection of the best picks from Udaipur’s rich crop of contemporary artists. It specialises in many small pieces by Shail Choyal, a guru of contemporary Indian painting, alongside many other highlights, such as the work of Shahid Parvez, a local fine artist. The paintings here represent a clear attempt to bring out humour, which comes from the perception and depiction of the incongruities of existence that are always present in folk and tribal art forms. However, Pristine also manages aptly to convey the flux of modern existence, as well as to fathom new aesthetics and contemporary urbanity.

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Fair Festival & Events

Raksha Bandhan ! Festival of brother-sister bond

‘Raksha‘ means protection and ‘Bandhan‘ means binding or bound. According to Hindu calendar, full moon day in the month of Shravana is a day to celebrate Raksha Bandhan. It is also known as Shravana Purnima. Since ages, it has been considered that Shravana is a holy month to celebrate festivals like rakhi. Being a festival of rainy season it rejoices the bond between a brother and a sister, and all those who care for each other. Raksha Bandhan 2017 falls on 7th August in the Gregorian calendar this year.

About Raksha Bandhan

Raksha bandhan, an Indian festival is all about the day to celebrate the bond between families. If they are distant from each other, everybody gets together by pushing the pending work on the next day. The bond of love and protection between brothers and sisters is honored on the day of rakhi. This is a day to pray for protection against all the evils by tying a sacred thread. It is not just a piece of thread, but has a lot of value to it.

Preparations for this day begins few days ago. Sisters engage themselves in finding the best rakhi for her brother. She also shops some amazing outfits for herself. Few days ago, some apply mehendi on their hands too. The brother on the other hand, tries to find the best rakhi gifts for sister as the festival approaches.

The trend to tie a rakhi has been carried forward from history. A sister decorates a rakhi thali that includes a diya, sweets, kumkum and a beautiful rakhi. The proceedings are followed as per the muhurat, an auspicious time as per the Indian calendar. That is the very time when the brother gets himself seated and the sister lights up the diya. She then performs her aarti and applies a kumkum tikka by sprinkling some rice grains over him. He then puts forward his right hand for his sister to tie a rakhi. Later, both share sweets and gifts.

But, this is not a day just for brothers and sisters. It is a day for all those people who immensely love each other. It is for those who want to protect each other from all the hurdles. Celebration is for all. Blood relations are not necessarily important.

 

History of  Rakhi

 

There are various mythological and historicalstories for calling Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi a big day.

One of the mythological stories is of Krishna and Draupadi that is quite popular. This was the day when Draupadi tore a piece of her saree and tied it to Lord Krishnas? index finger to stop it from bleeding. Getting all sentimental, Lord Krishna promised Draupadi to protect her from all the hurdles she faces.

Another such story is that of the Mahabharata, when queen Kunti ties a simple thread called rakhi to Abhimanyu and Arjun during the battle for their protection. The queen here, was a grandmother of the sons of Subhadra – Abhimanyu and Arjun.

Another story is that of Indra and Indrani signifies that Raksha Bandhan is not the day solely meant for brothers and sisters. But, it is also meant for two people who are deeply concerned about each other and want to protect each other in every possible stage of life. This is a story wherein King Bali was winning against Indra. Here, Indra?s wife, Indrani was worries and prayed Lord Vishnu. He handed her a holy thread that had to be tied on Indra?s wrist. Once Indrani tied the thread to Indra, King Bali started losing the battles. Ultimately, Indra won the war.

The story of Rani Karnavati and Humayun is known by most of them. Humayun received a rakhi from Rani Karnavati when Bahadur Shah attacked Chittorgarh. She sent that sacred thread with a note to Humayun to save her and the empire. He immediately rushed to Chittorgarh with his force to protect Rani Karnavati. But, Rani and the other women happened to commit a suicide before Humayun reached Chittorgarh. Humayun was thrilled to know that and thereby took every step to protect Chittorgarh from Bahadur Shah.

Goddess Lakshmi and King Bali also share their contribution in creating a historical story. This is a story when Goddess Lakshmi requests King Bali her protection as her husband had been out for work. She did that in the outlook of a Brahmin woman. King Bali protects her by giving her a place to stay. She took immense care of her every day. On Poornima, she tied a holy thread to King Bali for his protection. Bali grants her a wish. That is when she requests him to free the gatekeeper who was her husband. Once he freed him up, Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu (Gatekeeper) reveal their true identities.

 

Celebration

The festival is celebrated in different forms in different areas and is also known by different names. As per traditions, on this day the sister prepares the Puja Thali with a Diya, Rice, Roli and Rakhis. She worships the Gods, ties Rakhi to her brother and prays for his well-being. In return the brother accepts the love with a promise to protect her sister and gives her a gift. Traditionally, they then share and eat sweets like Kaju Katli, Jalebi, and Burfi. This festival strengthens the bond of love between the sisters and brothers.

Know about fair & festival of Rajasthan 

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Fair Festival & Events, Rajasthan Tourism

Fair & Festivals In Rajasthan 

1. Camel Festival Bikaner:

The BikanerCamel Festival is organized in the beautiful city of Bikaner, Rajasthan by the state’s Tourism Department. The desert town of Bikaner is located in the Northern part of Rajasthan. The festival is organized every year in the month of January or late December to emphasize the value of ship of the desert – “Camel”. The two day festival is marked by different interesting activities. This
festival starts off with a magnificent procession of bedecked camels against the red sandstone backdrop of the Junagarh Fort (1588-1593) in the town.

2. Nagaur Fair:

Nagaur Fair is the second biggest fair in India. The fair goes on for eight days. NagaurFair, Rajasthan is held every year during the month of Jan-Feb.  It is popularly known as the Cattle fair of Nagaur. This is because the Nagaur Fair is mainly all about trading of animals. Approximately 70,000 bullocks, camels and horses are traded every year in this fair. The animals lavishly decorated and even their owners dress up wearing colorful turbans and long moustaches.

3. Kite festival:

Kite festival of Jaipur is observed on the day of Makar Sankranti or Uttarayan. Celebrated on 14th of January to mark the transition of the sun from dhanu rashi (Sagittarius) to makara rashi (Capricorn), the day is considered auspicious. It is said that Uttarayan or northward journey of the sun begins on the day of Makar Sankranti. A prominent one out of the festivals of Rajasthan is the Kite Festival. Certainly, it’s a festival that is unique in its own way. The colourful kites hovering over whole of Rajasthan brighten up the skies. This festival is largely celebrated in Jaipur and Jodhpur. The kites-with-lights flown add to the fancy of the festival. If you like kite flying, this is the festival for you.

4. Baneshwar Fair Baneshwar:

BaneshwarFair is a five days event starting from Shukla ekadeshi of Magh month, as per the Hindu calendar. This is the unique and biggest tribal fair of the country that attracts lakhs of devotees. This fair is annually held in Dungarpur, Rajasthan. The name Baneshwar is derived from the holy Shiva Linga located in the Shiv temple in Dungarpur. ‘Baneshwar’ in the local language Vagdi means ‘master of delta’. The fair is organised at the delta formed by rivers- Mahi and Som. The fair continues till Shukla Purnima of Magh. Baneshwar is situated 24 kms away from Aspur, which is in the Dungarpur district.

5. Gangaur Festival:

Gangaur is one of the most vivid festivals rejoiced with great enthusiasm and happiness all over the Indian state of Rajasthan. In the word Gangaur, ‘Gan’ is the synonym for Lord Shiva whereas ‘Gaur’ stands for Gauri or Goddess Parvati. But mainly, this festival is held in the honors of Goddess Parvati as she is regarded as the epitome of marital love, strength, courage, power and excellence. During the festivities, married women worship Goddess Parvati for the long life, well being and wealth of their husbands while the girls pray for getting a smart and an understanding life partner.

6. Mewar festival:

Mewarfestival is observed to welcome the arrival of spring season with all zest and dedication in Udaipur, Rajasthan. During the days of festival, the whole city of Udaipur gets drenched in colors of festivity. Local markets and shops beautify their frontage with bright lights and decorations. Coinciding with the Gangaur festival, Mewar festival is equally significant for the womenfolk of Rajasthan.

7. Elephant Festival:

The ElephantFestival is an annual festival which is held every year in the Pink City, Jaipur. This matchless event is organized on the full moon day of Phalgun Purnima which falls in the month of February/March. The Elephant-headed God, Ganesha, believed to be the remover of obstacles and foremost to all the gods, is revered and devotedly worshipped in all the parts of India. its venue got
changed in 2011 and has been shifted to Jaipur Polo Ground which is opposite to the Sawai Mansingh Stadium.

8. Urs Ajmer Sharif, Ajmer:

The DargahSharif Ajmer, located at the foot of a barren hill, is the place where the Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti mortal remains lie buried. The Dargah (tomb) with a marble dome is situated in the center of a courtyard and is surrounded by a silver platform. It’s believed that the shrine is a place of wish fulfillment for those who pray with devout and pure hearts. People of all religious faiths visit the Dargah and make offerings of rose and jasmine flowers to seek the blessings of the Khawaja.

9. Teej Festival:

festival is Teej, which falls in the monsoon months of July-August. On this occasion, married women pray to Lord Shiva and Parvati to bless them with happy and long married life. Celebrated in and around Rajasthan this festival of swings welcomes monsoon.

10. Kajli Teej:

As per the Hindu calendar, Kajli Teej is celebrated on the third day of the fifth Hindu Month ‘Saawan/Shravan’. On this day Lord Krishna is honored by the women by singing prayers and devotional songs and performing the scared ritual of ‘Neem Puja’. Kajli Teej celebrations in Bundi, Rajasthan is the most popular one. In Bundi, it is celebrated on the third day of the Hindu month ‘Bhadra’. This day is completely dedicated to the Goddess Teej. Although Kajli Teej takes place for two days, its celebrations are generally extended till Janmashtami (Lord Krishna’s birth anniversary).

11. Dussehra Festival:

Dussehra is the beloved festival that is celebrated almost all over India but Dussehra inKota certainly sets it apart with 75 feet tall effigies of the demons Ravana, Kumbhakarana and Meghnath that are burnt here on Dussehra day. Villagers dress themselves in colorful dresses and offer prayers to Lord Rama. There is a dazzling procession that mesmerizes the onlookers that come here from the surrounding villages and provide a ripe opportunity for the traders to display their wares. Cultural Programmers are organized and one can see the scintillating performances by the prominent artistes who come here from all over the country.

12. Marwar Festival, Jodhpur:

The most popular Jodhpur festival is the Jodhpur Marwar Festival. It is held every year in memory of the heroes of Rajasthan. Marwar Festival of Jodhpur, Rajasthan was originally known as the Maand Festival. The festival is held in the month of Ashwin. Ashwin is a Hindu month between September-October. The venue of this festival includes the famous Umaid Bhawan Palace, Mandore and Mehrangarh Fort.

13. Pushkar fair:

The sprawling annual festivities of the 100 year old Pushkar Mela through its dramatic collage of diversified pictures, mirrors the vibrancy of the gracious state of Rajasthan. It is celebrated for five days from the Kartik ekadashi to Kartik Poornima, the full moon day of Kartik (October–November) in Hindu calendar.

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Fair Festival & Events, Jaipur Tour Packages

Celebrate Teej Festival In Jaipur Rajasthan (19 August 2023)

The festival Teej is celebrated with ultimate thrill and enthusiasm. The festival is celebrated with the outbreak of the monsoon season which is generally called as “Sawan Festival”. The festival is dedicated to the divine couple of Lord Shiva and goddess Parvati. The festival is highly celebrated in Rajasthan India and is highly popular in Jaipur. The state of Rajasthan, Punjab, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh celebrates the festival at the arrival of monsoon after long summer season.

On the day of Teej festival married women pray to goddess Parvati for the well being of their husband. Colorful costumes, fasting for the whole day, song and dance with the religious procession are the most striking feature of the festival. The religious procession of the festival is the most attractive feature of the festival. Basically there are three types of Teej and they are as under:

Hariyali Teej: The festival of Hariyali Teej falls in Shukla Paksha of Sawan month. It is celebrated at the beginning of monsoon season. On this day, women wear green colored clothes. They worship moon, Lord Krishna and goddess Radha.

Kajari Teej: Kajari Teej is celebrated on the dark half (Krishna Paksha) of Shravan month (according to Hindu calendar). On this day women sings devotional songs and gathers near the Neem Tree and worships it. Special procession is carried on and goddess Parvati is decorated very beautifully.

Hartalika Teej: The day is having the most importance in the entire Teej festival. The Hartalika teej is celebrated for three days and for the three days married women observes fast and second day its Nirjara Fast which meaning ‘fast without water’ for the great devotion and lifelong prosperity for their husband.

Importance: Teej is the most awaited festival for the womenfolk which is as always the most colorful, attractive and vibrant. Both married and unmarried women perform the many joys and rituals of the Teej Festival to make it colorful and vibrant. Teej is the time to adorn oneself like a newly dressed bride. Therefore women shop for new clothes, jewelry and accessories. Mahanadi is another attraction for the women who keep fast for their husband and to be husband.

During the Teej festival the magnificent collection of Heena comes in the market. Teej is also known as the ‘festival of swings’ which marks the advent of the monsoon season. Sawan Teej festival is the time for the fun and jollity while performing the rituals and traditions.

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