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Fair Festival & Events

12 Major Festivals in Rajasthan

12 Major Festivals in Rajasthan is a royal state which has truly exhilarating festivals. While the royal pleasures give you enough reasons, travel to Rajasthan has a number of excellent reasons per their interest. Festivals in Rajasthan are among the significant lures that draw people from across the world. Impressive traditions, colors, sights, and experiences are open to all tourists.

Representing the royal state’s history, culture, and charm, you must attend Festivals in Rajasthan. To showcase Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage, major festivals take place across the state in different months on different themes.

These varieties of fairs and festivals infuse life into the barren land of Rajasthan and fill the colors of joy all around. Out of all of such festivities, some of the major ones are Ashwa Poojan, Navratri, Guru Purnima, Mt. Abu: Summer and Winter Festival, Pushkar Fair, Gangaur Festival, Nagaur Festival, Kite Festival, Kumbhalgarh Festival, Teej, Marwar Festival, Summer Festival, Baneshwar Fair, Sheetla Mata Fair, Elephant Festival, Camel Festival, Desert Festival, Pushkar Fair and Urs Fair, that are celebrated in different parts of Rajasthan. Also, Hindus one of the biggest festival Dussehra and Diwali are also celebrated with much grandeur and the display of fireworks.

To add more fun to these celebrations there are various activities and competitions that are organised like turban tying competition, puppet shows, camel races, Mr. and Miss. Desert competition, folk music and dance performances, cock and bull fighting, camels and cattles trading. These occasions serve as an exceptional platform to showcase state’s traditional artifacts and handicrafts where the shopaholics and art lovers can gather a lot of fun.

12 Major Festivals in Rajasthan

Desert Festival, Jaisalmer

A three-day event organised by the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation in the month of February, it is an absolute bonanza that celebrates the delights of the desert. The atmosphere is alive with song and dance, with the artists dressed in bright colours and traditional finery, depicting the tragedies and accomplishments of the desert. A showcase of desert rituals and life, camel races, gymnastic stunts, several competitions like the longest moustache, turban tying, Mr Desert etc, delicious food and interesting stalls selling handicrafts and other souvenirs will make it a memorable 3 days of your life

Location: Sam Dunes (42 kilometres from Jaisalmer)

12 Major Festivals in Rajasthan

Pushkar Fair, Pushkar

The Big Daddy of all desert festivals, Pushkar Fair is a spectacular five-day camel and livestock fair held in the town of Pushkar, on the banks of the Pushkar lake in Rajasthan. It also coincides with the religious celebration of Kartik Ekadashi, when the Pushkar lake was supposed to be created by Lord Brahma. Primarily a livestock fair for the buying and selling of camels,

the Pushkar fair attracts hordes of tourists making it a true cultural bonanza of art, music, dance, puppet shows, gypsy dance, races, competitions with a host of vendors selling delicious snacks including camel milk cheeses and cakes, jewellery, shawls and other titbits. The entire festive and spiritual atmosphere completely lights up the desert in these five days.

Location: Pushkar Fair Ground, Pushkar, Ajmer, Rajasthan

12 Major Festivals in Rajasthan

Teej Festival, Jaipur

One of west India’s biggest festivals, Teej commemorates two things – a woman’s love for her husband and the advent of the monsoon season. The festival is marked by colourful celebrations where the womenfolk observe fasting and apply mehndi designs on their hands, enjoy long swing rides, song and dance with other women, tell stories and deck up in festive attire to celebrate the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

The markets and bazaars of Jaipur are filled to the brim with attractive clothes, jewellery and sweets like Ghewar and Malpua. A procession of a decorated idol of Goddess Parvati is carried through Jaipur, and thousands of devotees and tourists throng to see the procession and the antique palanquins, chariots, bands, folk music and dance and soak in the cultural revelry.

Location: Chaugan Stadium, Jaipur, Rajasthan

12 Major Festivals in Rajasthan

Gangaur Festival, Jaipur

Another festival that commemorates the goddess Parvati and her home-coming, it is celebrated with huge fanfare in Rajasthan by women. Processions of a decked up Goddess Gauri are carried all over the city and everyone participates in these processions, often accompanied by elephant processions, old palanquins, chariots, folk song and dance and often ends with fireworks. It coincides with the Mewar Festival in Udaipur. This is a very famous festival of Rajasthan.

Location: Across Jaipur

12 Major Festivals in Rajasthan

Jaipur Literature Festival

Perhaps not as glamorous as some of the other festivals on this list, JLF is the world’s largest free literary festival. Nobel laureates, Booker prize winners, debut novelists – the who’s who of the literary world come together for five days of readings, discussions and debates at the Diggi Palace in Jaipur. A great platform that provides access to some of the greatest authors and thinkers on this planet and gives courage to young minds to dream and imagine, it is not a chance anyone should miss.

Location: Diggi Palace, Jaipur

12 Major Festivals in Rajasthan

Nagaur Fair, Nagaur

The second largest fair in the country, it is essentially a cattle fair that attracts more than two lakh animal owners to bring their horses, cows, bullocks, oxen, camels etc. to be a part of a large trade show. A lot of animal races and cockfights in the day, followed by some dance and music in the nights attracts tourists and animal owners alike. Organised by the Department of Animal Husbandry, it brings out the true Rajput flavour of Rajasthan.

Location: Nagaur, Jodhpur

12 Major Festivals in Rajasthan

Kite Festival, Jodhpur

A 3-day festival to celebrate the spirit of Makar Sankranti, the Jodhpur International Desert Kite Festival, is simply put, a kite-flying competition. In reality, it is a colourful and extravagant spectre of kites, of myriad shapes, colours and sizes that deck up the desert sky. A number of helicopters release kites in the sky and children release balloons, making it a truly magnificent and spectacular event.

Location: Jodhpur Polo Ground, Jodhpur

12 Major Festivals in Rajasthan

Camel Festival, Bikaner

Organised in the honour of the ship of the desert, the Camel Festival is a spectacular festival celebrated in Bikaner. Just like the other celebrations of Rajasthan, this festival kicks off with great pomp and show. Celebrated every year in the pleasant January, the Camel Festival is a two-day long affair with a colourful parade of the decked up camels against the backdrop of the magnificent Junagadh Fort. It includes camel race, camel games and other cultural performances.

Though celebrated to glorify the camels of Rajasthan, this festival also includes the traditional Rajasthani folk performances. The festival concludes with an awe-inspiring display of fireworks, illuminating the majestic skies of Bikaner.

Location: Karni Singh Stadium, Bikaner

12 Major Festivals in Rajasthan

Mewar Festival, Udaipur

The city of Udaipur comes alive with colours of festivities during the Mewar Festival which marks the advent of spring in the region. It is a major Rajasthan festival and people from all over the globe flock to Udaipur to witness the glory of the town during this time. The whole town is decorated with bright lights and a joyous mood reigns in the air. This festival includes a number of practices, like dressing the idols of Isar and Gangaur and carrying them in a traditional procession through various parts of the city. People also engage in cultural dance and songs, revealing the colourful culture of Rajasthan.

Location: Across Udaipur

12 Major Festivals in Rajasthan

Kumbhalgarh festival

The Kumbhalgarh festival is a celebration of Maharana Kumbha’s contribution toward art and culture. It is celebrated in his place of residence, the Kumbhalgarh Fort. The Kumbhalgarh Fort is beautifully decorated during this time, with all the chandeliers being brought out for display along with other royal works of art. Traditional artists are called from all parts of India to showcase their craftsmanship from jewellers to potters. The festival is divided into three days with different themes on each day.

There are also different competitions held each day, to bring out the enthusiasm of the visiting tourists. Kalbeliyas, Langas, Kachi Ghodi and Odissi dancers often hold dance sessions. The festival is a joint venture of the government of Rajasthan and the Department of Tourism to give a feel of India to foreigners.

Location: Kumbhalgarh

12 Major Festivals in Rajasthan

Bundi Utsav

The Bundi Utsav is the main festival in Rajasthan and major attraction of the town of Bundi. It is located 39 km, Northwest of Kota. It is a little off beaten track for tourists. The town of Bundi sets a beautiful backdrop for this festival. It is dotted with palaces and forts which make you feel like you’re in a fairy tale. The nearby river of Chambal gives ample opportunities for water sport activities. As the entire festival is a celebration of the town, the stalls and shops set up of the natives themselves.

Seldom are people called from outside. It also hosts various competitions like the turban weaving and moustache competition. The festival has various food stalls, shops selling souvenirs and traditional art. The festival also showcases cultural programs, ethnic sports, Shobha Yatra and the famous Fold Dance. The fireworks display marks the end of the festival and is absolutely breath-taking.

Dates: November- December (month of Karthik)
Location: Bundi, Haodati District

12 Major Festivals in Rajasthan

Brij Holi, Bharatpur

The most loved festival in India is celebrated in a grand and elaborate style, a few days ahead before Holi, in Bharatpur located in the Brij region of Rajasthan. The spirit of the city comes alive during this festival, with people dressed in their brightest attires and singing colourful songs. Lord Krishna is worshipped in this festival, thus the entire love story of Krishna and Radha is showcased in the form of a dance, which is the unique feature of this festival. The entire region is immersed in the colours of Holi during this time and the people are at their merriest self. Tourists from far and wide come to Bharatpur to experience the out of the world festivities.

Location: Brij, Bharatpur

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Places To Celebrate Holi Festival In Rajasthan

Places To Celebrate Holi Festival In Rajasthan is the festival of colors that have come to symbolize the cultural appeal of the country perfectly. Many tourists who visit India are enamored by the vibrant festive vibe of Holi and find the traditions and customs attached to this festival fascinating. For people in India however, Holi often becomes sadly just another holiday since they are all too familiar with the routine of the festival having celebrated it year after year.

To break this pattern and enjoy the fun of Holi just as you experienced it for the first time, one of the best ways is to travel. The different surroundings, people, and unfamiliar customs can bring the charm back into the festivities for you, and the best place to do it is by attending the celebrations of royal Holi in Rajasthan. Rajasthan is a beautiful state that is unique in many ways due to the rich history, atypical landscape, food habits, and religious customs. The royal Holi celebration in Rajasthan is yet another example of the great cultural diversity of the state.

The Holi in Udaipur is also called Dhulandi which means festival of colors and there are tons of reasons to celebrate this Holi in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Holi is one of the famous festivals of India and there are various types of Holi celebrated across the country. So plan your Holi in Udaipur the best travel in Rajasthan and book your Rajasthan Tour Packages to enjoy the warm hospitality of Rangeelo Rajasthan and many other tourist places to visit in Rajasthan.

Places To Celebrate Holi Festival In Rajasthan

Dhulandi Holi – Jaipur

Dhulandi marks the end of Winter and beginning of Spring but the legend has another tale associated with it. And it’s about Krishna turning blue after drinking demon’s milk. It was only after his mother Yashoda suggested him to color Radha into the same color that he found the perfect solace and ever since then Holi is celebrated to commemorate the event. During the festival, temples all around are decorated and the entire Braj can be seen basking in Myriad of colors. Dhulandi Holi, primarily celebrated in Jaipur, exhibits the true essence of Rajasthani Holi Places To Celebrate Holi Festival In Rajasthan.

Places To Celebrate Holi Festival In Rajasthan

Holi festivities in Pushkar

The holy town of Pushkar celebrates Holi with much vim and vigor. The main square hosts a grand party here with lively music and color-bathed people enjoying. Their excitement is further upped with bhang thandai or lassi. The scene of color bombs being thrown around and the pulsating crowd all set to enjoy the day to its max Places To Celebrate Holi Festival In Rajasthan.

Holi celebrations in Pushkar begin with the traditional Holi bonfire on the eve of Holi. The view of Holika Dahan is worth enjoying as with wooden logs and garlands thrown into fire, the flames rise higher and higher. Cheers add to the delight of the environment. After the fire extinguishes, people take embers to their homes to symbolize auspiciousness. The next morning witnesses the peppy play of colors, making the town look like flamboyant heaven.

Places To Celebrate Holi Festival In Rajasthan

Royal Holi Celebration, Udaipur

To witness Holi celebrations in royal style, do visit Udaipur. Holi in Udaipur is an imperial affair that involves the participation of the royal family. The celebrations begin with Holika dahan, where the local Maharaj lights the ceremonial bonfire in the royal palace’s courtyard. This is known as Mewar Holika dahan. Next, the locals perform ‘Gair’- a folk dance, around the bonfire. After that, a royal procession takes off from Shambhu Niwas Palace and concludes at Manek Chowk royal residence. The royals are seated on bedecked elephants, horses, and camels in the parade, accompanied by the royal music band. The palace now serves cocktails and dinner to its guests. Finally, the celebration culminates with amazing fireworks.

The next day people rejoice with the play of colors. Traditional sweets are prepared in households, and people enjoy sharing the sweetness of the festival. The festivities are not confined to the royal palace and Manek Chowk but also to the narrow alleys of the city. Overall, the Holi celebration in Udaipur is an experience to be a part of Places To Celebrate Holi Festival In Rajasthan.

Places To Celebrate Holi Festival In Rajasthan

Brij Holi – Bharatpur

Celebrated primarily in Brij region in Bharatpur which was founded in the earlier 18th century by Raja Surajmal, Brij Holi is a big Holi celebration that precedes the festival. The grandeur and opulence of this festival celebrated in March is noteworthy. Lord Krishna is worshipped during the festival and various dance and stage shows are organized.

The Raslila dance by men and women dressed as Krishna and Gopis is the highlight of the festival. There is an atmosphere of glee and spirit of the festival can be felt everywhere around. A holy dip in the Banganga river is the most auspicious thing to do as it is believed to cleanse your soul Places To Celebrate Holi Festival In Rajasthan.

Places To Celebrate Holi Festival In Rajasthan

Dolchi Holi – Bikaner

Believed to be an ancient tradition of Holi celebration, this one dates back to 300 years back. Dolchi Holi follows a custom in which men throw water on other men in a vessel called Dolchi – made from camel skin. Quite interestingly, this tradition started with a dispute between two communities. The reason for the dispute, it is believed, was over food.

Men from different communities started throwing water on each other to find a seek a resolute and this gradually became a practice and later an important tradition. The Holi is specifically played by men while women and children only look over Places To Celebrate Holi Festival In Rajasthan.

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Dussehra Festival Rajasthan

Dussehra Festival Rajasthan This Hindu festival commemorates the killing of Ravana (an evil king from Sri Lanka) by God Rama (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu). The festival is preceded by nine days Navratri celebration in which Goddess Durga is worshipped in order to seek her blessings for a good harvest season.

According to Hindu mythology, Ravana abducted Sita, the consort of Lord Rama while they were in exile. Lord Rama not only killed Ravana but also established an indelible reason for the Hindu devotees to celebrate his triumph as a day of Dussehra. For the celebration of Dussehra, large effigies are created which are later burned to ashes as a symbol of the defeat of the evil. All around the country, these effigies are made and burned; prayers are also offered and plays are performed as a part of the celebration both in Rajasthan as well as across the country.

The large size of the effigies of the ten-headed Ravana, Kumbhkarna (Ravana’s brother), and Meghnath (Ravana’s son) make the celebration of Dussehra in Kota, Rajasthan exceptional. The effigies are about 75 feet in height making them the highest in India. A fair is also held in Kota around Dussehra festival where artisans from across the state come. Apart from Kota, Jaipur also celebrates Dussehra with all pomp and show Rajasthan Budget Tours.

Festival Dates/Months: Dussehra is celebrated in the month of October or November, however there is no fixed date.

Special highlights of the festival:

  • Large effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkarna are built and burned on Dussehra
  • Plays based on the killing of Ravana by Lord Rama are performed
  • In Kota, the highest effigies of 75 feet are built
  • A fair is held in Kota on Dussehra
Dussehra Festival Rajasthan

History of Dussehra

There is beautiful folklore associated with the Dussehra festival. The story behind the celebration of Dussehra is, the demon king ‘Ravana‘ abducts ‘Sita‘, the wife of Lord ‘Rama‘. Then Lord Rama took the help of God ‘Hanuman‘ and his small Sena and cross over to Lanka to kill the Demon King Ravana. Lord Rama fought the battle for his wife and won. Along with Ravana, Lord Rama killed Ravana’s brother ‘Kumbha Karna‘ and son ‘Meghanada‘. Thus, Dussehra marks the victory of good over evil. Here, good symbolizes Lord Rama the god and evil represents Ravan the demon king Dussehra Festival Rajasthan.

Dussehra Festival Rajasthan

Attractions of Dussehra in Kota

Dussehra Festival in Kota has occupied a significant position in the tourism map of Kota. Located on the banks of the Chambal River, Kota celebrates a number of festivals. However, this festival of Dussehra bears a distinct appeal altogether. The whole area boasts an attractive during this festival. Dussehra is not only a great festival for the fun it offers. It has a huge religious significance in Hindu religion. The mythical association of the festival states that it is to celebrate the victory of Lord Rama over the Demon King Ravana. According to the Hindu religious beliefs, the battle was won by Ravana after a fierce battle of 10 days.

Witnessing the Dussehra Festival of Kota is a unique experience for the tourists. The theatrical representation of the encounter is a great show to experience. The theatrical representation is given shape by active participation of people from different age groups This is primarily done to suit the different characters. The drama holds so much importance among the local people and has so much appeal that spectators start chanting in the name of Lord Rama during the show. The climax of the drama holds most excitement as it ends with setting fire to gigantic effigies of 10 headed Ravana. The effigies are packed with crackers and once set in fire; they burst to create an extravagant show.

The festival of Dussehra Kota is one of the major attractions of Kota tours. It is a must visit during Kota tours. Hence, if you are planning to visit Kota, try to plan it during the time of this festival and visit the Dussehra festival in Kota. The festival is celebrated during the Hindu month of Ashvin. This month falls between September and October You will surely have a great experience Dussehra Festival Rajasthan.

Dussehra Festival Rajasthan

How to Reach Kota

By Air : Kota is 245 km from Jaipur airport and is the nearest airport from Kota.

By Rail : There are some very efficiently managed super fast train services running through Kota from various parts of the country. Kota lies on the Delhi-Mumbai route.

By Road : The main bus depot is located on Bundi Road. Bus services are also available from Ajmer, Chittorgarh, Jaipur, Udaipur, which are all about six hours away from Kota by road, Dussehra Festival Rajasthan.

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Places to Visit in India to Janmashtami

Places to Visit in India to Janmashtami also known as Krishnashtami, Gokulashtami, Srikrishna Jayanti, Janmashtami, Ashtami Rohini or Saatam Aatham is an annual celebration of the birthday of the Hindu deity Krishna, the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu. The festival is celebrated on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) of the month of Bhadrapada (August–September) in the Hindu calendar. Krishna Janmashtami is an important festival which is celebrated with great fervor. The magical festival is celebrated in numerous ways in different parts of India. Young kids are dressed up as Krishna and Radha is also a specialty of the day.

As a child Sri Krishna was very naughty and he was very fond of butter. In states like Maharashtra people enact incidents from Krishna’s childhood by placing an earthen pot high above the ground and then forming a human pyramid to try and break it. Many youngsters participate in this activity with great enthusiasm. This ritual of breaking the pot is known as Dahi Handi. The crowds at Dahi Handi, street performances of singing and dancing and night celebrations in the temples are the most exciting activities to be explored during the festival Places to Visit in India to Janmashtami.

features 6 places to visit in India to celebrate Janmashtami in the grandest way. Krishnashtami is the prime festival for these places & temples and the celebrations offer unforgettable experience to visitors. Some of these places are associated with Krishna’s life and witness tremendous crowd on this festival day.

Places to Visit in India to Janmashtami

Mathura

One of the best places to visit in India during Janmashtami is Mathura. According to the legends, Lord Krishna was born in Mathura. Therefore, it is one of the most important places for the Hindu community in India. And as we talk about Janmasthami, the festival is celebrated with great zest. There are two parts in which the celebration takes place. The first part is Jhulanotsav and the second is Ghatas. In Jhulanotsav, people put swings for Lord Krishna in their homes. The idol of Lord Krishna is bathed with honey, curd, and milk and people even apply ghee to the idol. This happens early in the morning and the name of the ceremony is Abhishek.

Once the bathing ceremony is done, people decorate the idol with new clothes as well as ornaments and place it in the swing. The swings can be found in the courtyards of the temples and houses in Mathura and the idols of Lord Krishna are swung on them. Another beautiful thing about Janmasthami in Mathura is Ras Leela. Kids not older than 10-12 years perform drama describing the various stages of Lord Krishna’s life. People from nearby towns and cities also visit Mathura to see Ras Leela, Places to Visit in India to Janmashtami.

Without any doubt, Mathura is the best place to visit in India for Janmashtami any day.

  • Janmashtami pooja at Mathura

The pooja time is between 12:00 am to 12:48 am, the birth time of Lord Krishna. There are 400 temples in Mathura, and all the temples have different festive vibes on the day of Janmashtami. Many celebrations are carried out, such as the reading of Bhagavad Gita, performing Raas Leela, DahiHandi, etc.

  • How to reach Mathura

Mathura is the main railway junction. You can find many train options to Mathura, and it is well-connected with major metro cities like Hyderabad, Jaipur, Delhi, Lucknow, Kolkata, etc.

You can also go by air. The nearest international airport is Delhi, and the closest domestic airport is Agra. And, from the airport, you can book a taxi to Mathura.

  • The best time to Visit Mathura for Janmashtami Celebration

The best time to enjoy this festival here is during Janmashtami day, either in August or September. The whole day is enjoyable when you are here in Mathura for Places to Visit in India to Janmashtami.

Krishna Janmashtami in Mathura Vrindavan

Vrindavan

It was at Vrindavan that Lord Krishna spent his initial days of life when he was growing up. When Krishna went to Gokul, Kansa sent his army to kill Krishna. To escape the army of Kansa, Krishna was brought to Vrindavan. It was at this very place that he started performing Krishna Leela and dancing with his friends, also known as gopis.

Some of the best places to visit in Vrindavan to witness the enthusiasm of Janmashtami include Prem Mandir, ISKCON Temple, and numerous other temples that are present here. It really gets crowded during this time of the year at Vrindavan but it also makes the atmosphere lively. People of Vrindavan celebrate Janmashtami by chanting mantras, singing songs, organizing dance and dramas, playing with curd and turmeric, preparing special dishes, etc.

Are you also willing to pay a visit and enjoy Vrindavan Janmashtami 2021? If yes, this will be the best decision taken, as Vrindavan is one of the most preferred places to visit in India for Places to Visit in India to Janmashtami.

  • Janmashtami pooja at Vrindavan

Lord Krishna spent his earlier days in Vrindavan. The holy town is located on the banks of the Yamuna river, the place where Lord Krishna used to play Raas Leela with his Gopis. In Vrindavan, the Janmashtami celebration starts before ten days itself, and the professional artists perform Raas Leela, enact the life scenes of Lord Krishna and epic scenes of Mahabharata. The pooja time is between 12:00 am to 12:45 am on the day of Janmashtami.

  • How to reach Vrindavan

The nearest domestic airport is Agra, and the closest international airport is Delhi. You can easily hire taxis from the airport to reach Vrindavan.

And, one can also catch a train to Mathura. You can hire auto-rickshaws, taxis, or even take a suburban train from Mathura to Vrindavan, Places to Visit in India to Janmashtami.

  • The Best Time to Visit Vrindavan for Janmashtami Celebration

Generally, the best time to visit Vrindavan is during the winter months, but it is recommended to travel here at Janmashtami time, which can fall in August or September Places to Visit in India to Janmashtami.

Places to Visit in India to Janmashtami

Dwarka

Dwarka is a historical city in India. The word Dwarka means doors to salvation and is the top place to visit in India for Janmashtami. Janmashtami in Dwarka is celebrated like no other place in India. Dwarka is one of the four Char Dhams, ruled by Lord Krishna and known as the golden city. The buildings were made out of gold, crystals, and diamonds. Krishna lived here for 100 years, and soon after this death, a part of Dwarka immersed into the water.

During Janmashtami time, the celebration starts with mangala aarti, and the temples distribute Utsav Bhog and Banta Bhog after midnight (the birth time of Lord Krishna). You can check Dwarka with Somnath Tour Packages listed on our website and plan a trip here. Plan a visit to Dwarka for Janmashtami to witness something grand this year Places to Visit in India to Janmashtami.

  • Janmashtami pooja at Dwarka

The day starts with a mangalarti at 7 am. The priest offers Banta Bhog (milk & milk products) to Lord Krishna and cleanses Lord Krishna’s face with water. And then the devotees can do their darshan.

  • How to reach Dwarka

Jamnagar airport is the nearest one, around 135 km from Dwarka City. Dwarka has a railway station well-connected with major cities (Ahmedabad, Jamnagar, Surat, Mumbai, Goa, Vadodara, etc.). And, you can also travel by road to Dwarka, Places to Visit in India to Janmashtami.

  • The best time to Visit Dwarka for Janmashtami Celebration

August & September are the best months to plan a visit to Dwarka for the Janmashtami celebration Places to Visit in India to Janmashtami.

Places to Visit in India to Janmashtami

Gokul

Gokul is certainly one of the top attractions in Janmashtami since Lord Krishna was taken immediately to this place after his birth. Janmasthami in Gokul is called Gokulashtami and is celebrated one day after the rest of the country celebrates this festival. During the celebration, devotees chant mantras, sing bhajans, ring chimes, blow shells, etc. A road trip to Gokul will not only give you the pleasure of witnessing the beautiful celebration of Janmashtami but you can also see rural India Places to Visit in India to Janmashtami.

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Sri Krishna Janmashtami Festival

Sri Krishna Janmashtami Festival has a lot of importance in Hinduism. The birth anniversary of Lord Shri Krishna is known as Krishna Janmashtami. According to religious beliefs, Lord Shri Krishna was born on the Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha of Bhadrapada month and in Rohini Nakshatra. The festival of Shri Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated with great pomp. On this day, Lord Krishna’s child form Laddu Gopal is worshipped. A fast is also observed on this day.

Krishna Janmashtami (Lord Krishna birthday) Mathura is a world famous festival in India. Krishna was born in Mathura. So, especially at Mathura –Vrindavan where the lord spent his childhood, birthday (Krishna Janmashtmi) is celebrated with Great Spirit, devotion and pleasure all over India.

Celebrations of Krishna birthday (Janmashtami) takes place at midnight as Krishna god is said to have made his divine appearance in that hour. Krishna janmashtmi celebrations are performed at the all temples of Mathura Vrindavan but at Dwarakadhish temple some special events in the form of Jhulanotsava and ghatas…

Sri Krishna Janmashtami Festival

Important information

  • Krishna Janmashtami 2022
  • Thursday, 18 August 2022
  • Ashtami Start Tithi : 18 August 2022 at 09:21 pm
  • Ashtami End Tithi : 19 August 2022 at 10:59 pm
  • Did you know: It is the 5249th birth anniversary of Lord Shri Krishna. On Janmashtami, devotees usually observe fast through the day and the night.

Sri Krishna Janmashtami Festival also known as Krishnashtami, Srikrishna Jayanti or sometimes merely as Janmashtami, is an annual celebration of the birth of the Hindu deity Krishna, the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu. Krishna belonged to the Vrishni clan of Yadavas from Mathura (Uttar Pradesh) and was the eighth son born to the princess Devaki and her husband Vasudeva. Lord Krishna reciprocates in unique, personal ways with every devotee who offers Him love. He is the most adorable, mischievous son, the most romantic lover, the most compassionate friend as described in ancient scriptures.

The festival is celebrated on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) of the month of Shraavana (August-September) in the Hindu calendar. The dramatic enactments of the life of Krishna, Rasa lila, are organised in different regions of Mathura, Vrindavan, and regions following Vaishnavism in Manipur and many other places across the world. The Dahi Handi event also celebrate God’s playful and mischievous side, where teams of young men form human towers to reach a high-hanging pot of butter and break it, Rajasthan Budget Tours.

Sri Krishna Janmashtami Festival

Birth of Lord Krishna

King Kansa, Devaki’s brother, ascended the throne by imprisoning his father, King Ugrasena. There was a prophecy which predicted that Kansa would be killed by Devaki‘s eighth son. Kansa got scared of that prophecy and locked Devaki and her husband in a prison cell. After Kansa killed the first six children, and Devaki’s apparent miscarriage of the seventh child, Lord Krishna was born as eighth child to the couple Sri Krishna Janmashtami Festival.

Just after the birth, Lord Vishnu ordered Vasudeva to take Krishna to Nanda and Yashoda in Gokul so that Krishna can live and grow up safely there away from his Uncle Kansa. Vasudeva took Krishna with him and crossed river Yamuna and reached Gokul. When everyone was asleep, Vasudeva quietly exchanged him with Yashoda’s daughter and returned. Kansa, thinking her to be Devki’s eight child, threw her on a stone.

But she rose into the air and became the lightning in the sky and announced that Shri Krishna has already incarnated, and his destiny is in His hands and He is going to kill him and then she disappeared. Krishna grew up in Gokul with his brother, Balram and returned to Mathura and killed Kansa with the help of Balram.

Sri Krishna Janmashtami Festival

Celebrations

Janmashtami is celebrated all over India and abroad with great enthusiasm. The celebrations start from early morning and go past midnight, the time when Krishna is believed to have been born. The temples are decorated with flowers and lights. The idols of Krishna and other deities in the temple are bathed with a variety of auspicious liquids including yogurt, honey, ghee in a kind of ablution ceremony called abhisheka. After that they are decorated with new clothes and jewellery Sri Krishna Janmashtami Festival.

Images and idols of Krishna’s infancy are placed in swings and cradles in temples and homes. Before midnight, devotees gather around in the temples and sing devotional songs and dance in the praise of Lord Krishna. At midnight devotees welcome the birth of Lord Krishna and exchange sweets and gifts. Children also enjoy dressing up as Radha, Krishna and their associates, and re-enacting Krishna’s pastimes and childhood events.

Janmashtami Fast & Puja Vidhi

  1. The celebration begins with the fast & Puja of Ashtami, and ends with the Parana on Navami.
  2. One who is observing fast must have some light Sattvic food a day before i.e. Saptami. Avoid any physical intimacy with the life partner on the following night and keep all the senses under control.
  3. On the day of fast, get ready early in the morning and pay homage to all the deities; then sit facing East or North.
  4. Take Sankalp of the fast while keeping holy water, fruit, and flowers in hand.
  5. After that, sprinkle the water mixed with black sesame over yourself and make a labor room for Devki Ji.
  6. Now, place a baby bed in this room and a holy Kalash on it.
  7. Additionally, place an idol or picture of Devki Ji feeding milk to Krishna.
  8. Perform the Puja by taking the names of Devaki, Vasudeva, Baladeva, Nand, Yashoda, and Lakshmi Ji respectively.
  9. This fast is opened only after the midnight. Grains are not consumed in this fast. Only fruits and something like that can be taken e.g. fried balls of Kuttu flour, sweets made of condensed milk, and Halwa made of water chestnut Sri Krishna Janmashtami Festival.
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Independence Day

Independence Day On August 15, every year, India celebrates its Independence Day, which marks the event when it attained freedom from the British rule. Independence Day celebrations are centred in the national capital, Delhi, where important government landmarks are bedecked and roads are decorated with the National Flag. Moreover, the ceremonial National Flag hoisting takes place at Red Fort from where the Prime Minister delivers a speech to the entire nation. The day is observed as a National Holiday all over the country, and people across the nation fly kites to celebrate their liberation.

“At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom.” These were the famous words said by Independent India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, in his maiden speech as the leader of the country. And rightly so, India broke free from the shackles of colonialism after waging a long fight against the British. Many key revolutionaries and leaders emerged during the movement, chief of whom was Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, who has been honoured with the title of ‘Father of the Nation.’

Independence Day

Independence Day Celebration 2022 Special Facts

  • This year we are going to celebrate the 76th anniversary of its independence with great enthusiasm on 15th August in 2022.
  • To mark this glorious year, the day has been named Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.
  • The Amrit Mahotsav of Azadi started 75 weeks ago from 15 August 2022.
  • This year the Indian flag will be hoisted in every house under the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga Abhiyan’.
Independence Day

What happens on Independence Day?

Every year, the Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag at Delhi’s Red Fort and makes an address to the nation, which is followed by a military parade. The President of India also delivers the ‘address to the nation’ speech. In honour of the occasion, twenty-one gun shots are fired.

This day is observed as a national holiday across India, with offices, banks and post offices remaining closed. Independence Day is observed with flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades and cultural events in all Indian states and Union Territories.

Preparations for the Independence Day start a month in advance. Schools and colleges organise cultural events, competitions, debates, speeches, and quiz competitions.

Independence Day

Background of the Independence Day

India’s struggle for independence started in 1857 with the Sepoy Mutiny in Meerut and it gained momentum after the First World War. In 20th century, under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, the Indian National Congress (INC) and other political organisations launched a countrywide independence movement and revolt against the oppressive British rule.

During the Second World War in 1942, the Indian Congress launched the Quit India Movement demanding an end to the British rule which prompted colonial rulers detaining many campaigners, nationalists, and ministers including Gandhi.

During the partition of India in 1947, violent riots, mass casualties, and displacement of nearly 15 million people took place amid religious violence.

History of Indian Independence Day

The British Empire’s rule started in India in 1757, followed by the English East India Company gaining control over the entire country by winning the Battle of Plassey. The Indian independence movement began during World War I and it was led by renowned leader Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi staunchly advocated a noncooperation, nonviolent method of protest, after which the civil disobedience movement took place.

After relentlessly long campaigns for independence, India’s struggle paid off. Britain had weakened after the two world wars and began thinking of ending its rule in India. In 1947, the British government declared the transfer of all powers to India by June 1948, but continuing tensions and violence between Muslims and Hindus led to a consensus for the partition of India into two separate states. To deal with this, the British government proposed on June 3, 1947, that any constitution framed by the Constituent Assembly of India will not be applicable to parts of the country that refuse to accept it.

On the same day, a plan for partition was put into action by Lord Mountbatten — the then viceroy of India. Mountbatten’s plan was agreed to by both the Congress and the Muslim League. As new borders were drawn and the world map changed forever, between 300,000 and 500,000 people died on both sides. On August 15, 1947, at midnight, India gained independence and was concluded by the iconic speech by Jawaharlal Nehru, “Tryst with destiny.”

The great British rule over India came to an end with the powers transferred to the newly independent entities Pakistan and India. Lord Mountbatten became the first governor-general of the new Dominion of India and Jawaharlal Nehru became the first prime minister of Independent India. The Constituent Assembly that was set up in 1946 became the Parliament of Indian Dominion.

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Raksha Bandhan Festival

Raksha Bandhan Festival is a special occasion, which celebrates and honors the love and relationship shared between sisters and brothers. It is celebrated in India and Nepal with massive joy and excitement. Its festivity includes a really unique Tikka ceremony, in which sisters apply Tikka on their forehead, tie Rakhi on their brothers? wrist, and pray for their successful life. In return, brothers present exciting gifts to them, and make this special day more exciting for them. This traditional knot, called Raksha Bandhan Festival, symbolizes immense love and protection.

It serves as a mark of the promise made by brothers to protect their sisters forever. After the Tikka ceremony, all the family members sit, have amusing discussions, and have lunch together, which produces a sense of togetherness. The Rakhi festival is, undoubtedly, one of the most awaited joyous occasions in India.

Raksha Bandhan is celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Shravan, which falls in August, as per the Gregorian calendar. It has been majorly considered as a non-religious occasion, as it is widely celebrated by people of all religions. This festival is more about celebrating human values and emotions than following old rituals, just to retain its traditional value Rajasthan Fair Festival.

Raksha Bandhan Festival

RAKSHA BANDHAN 2022: DATE AND TIME

  • Raksha Bandhan: Thursday, August 11, 2022
  • Pradosh Time Raksha Bandhan Muhurat: 08:51 PM to 09:14 PM
  • Duration: 00 Hours 22 Mins
  • Raksha Bandhan Bhadra End Time: 08:51 PM
  • Raksha Bandhan Bhadra Punchha: 05:17 PM to 06:18 PM
  • Raksha Bandhan Bhadra Mukha: 06:18 PM to 08:00 PM
  • Purnima Tithi Begins: 10:38 AM on Aug 11, 2022
  • Purnima Tithi Ends: 07:05 AM on Aug 12, 2022
Raksha Bandhan Festival

RAKSHA BANDHAN 2022: HISTORY AND SIGNIFICANCE

The history of this day lies in the Hindu mythological epic of ancient India, Mahabharata. During that period, Lord Krishna got his finger cut accidentally on the Sudarshan chakra. And princess Draupadi noticed it and tied a piece of cloth around the wounded part of the hand. Later, Lord Krishna was impressed by the actions of the princess and promised to protect her from all the evils in the world.advertisement Raksha Bandhan Festival.

He named it Raksha sutra. He protected her when Kauravas tried to shame her with the act of Chirharan. Krishna appeared out of nowhere and saved her from all the humiliation and dishonour she was facing. The day plays a significant role in the lives of brothers and sisters Rajasthan Budget Tours.

Raksha Bandhan Festival

Reason for the celebration of this festival

The festival of Raksha Bandhan is observed as a symbol of duty between brothers and sisters. The occasion is meant to celebrate any type of brother-sister relationship between men and women who may not be biologically related.

On this day, a sister ties a Raksha Bandhan Festival around the wrist of her brother in order to pray for his prosperity, health and well-being. The brother in return offers a gifts and promises to protect his sister from any harm and under every circumstance. The festival is also celebrated between brother-sister belonging to distant family members, relatives or cousins.

Origin of Raksha Bandhan Festival

The festival of Raksha Bandhan Festival is known to have originated centuries before and there are several stories related to the celebration of this special festival. Some of the various accounts related to the Hindu mythology are described below:

Indra Dev and Sachi- According to the ancient legend of Bhavishya Purana, once there was a fierce battle between Gods and demons. Lord Indra- the principle deity of sky, rains and thunderbolts who was fighting the battle on the side of Gods was having a tough resistance from the powerful demon King, Bali. The war continued for a long time and did not came on a decisive end. Seeing this, Indra’s wife Sachi went to the Lord Vishnu who gave her a holy bracelet made up of cotton thread.

Sachi tied the holy thread around the wrist of her husband, Lord Indra who ultimately defeated the demons and recovered the Amaravati. The earlier account of the festival described these holy threads to be amulets which were used by women for prayers and were tied to their husband when they were leaving for a war. Unlike, the present times, those holy threads were not limited to brother-sister relationships.

King Bali and Goddess Lakshmi- As per an account of Bhagavata Purana and Vishnu Purana, when Lord Vishnu won the three worlds from the demon King Bali, he asked by the demon king to stay beside him in the palace. The Lord accepted the requested and started living with the demon king. However, Goddess Lakshmi, wife of Lord Vishnu wanted to return to his native place of Vaikuntha.

So, she tied the rakhi around the wrist of demon king, Bali and made him a brother. On asking about the return gift, Goddess Lakshmi asked Bali to free her husband from the vow and let him return to Vaikuntha. Bali agreed to the request and Lord Vishnu returned to his place with his wife, Goddess Lakshmi.

Santoshi Maa- It is said that the two sons of Lord Ganesha namely, Shubh and Labh were frustrated that they had no sister. They asked for a sister from their father who finally obliged to their sister on the intervention of saint Narada. This is how Lord Ganesha created Santoshi Maa through the divine flames and the two sons of Lord Ganesha got their sister for the occasion of Raksha Bandhan Festival.

Krishna and Draupadi- Based on an account of Mahabharat, Draupadi, wife of Pandavas tied a rakhi to Lord Krishna while Kunti tied the rakhi to grandson Abhimanyu before the epic war.

Yama and the Yamuna- Another legend says that the death God, Yama did not visit his sister Yamuna for a period of 12 years who ultimately became very sad. On the advice of Ganga, Yama went to meet his sister Yamuna who has very happy and performed hospitality of her brother, Yama. This made the Yama delighted who asked Yamuna for a gift. She expressed her desire to see her brother again and again. Hearing this, Yama made his sister, Yamuna immortal so that he could see her again and again. This mythological account forms the basis of festival called “Bhai Dooj” which is also based on the brother-sister relationship.

Celebration of Rakhi across India

India is a renowned country around the world owing to its diverse culture and traditions. The festivals here are big celebrations with so much exhilaration and happiness. With India divided into different states, follows diverse culture and traditions leading to their celebrations in multifarious ways. Such is the case with the festival of Raksha Bandhan; the day of Rakhi Purnima is said to be very auspicious to carry out various rituals in the Hindu religion.

Apart from the regular rakhi tying ceremony observed on this festival, there are multiple customs and traditions followed by a diaspora of people celebrating this day in their own ways.

Raksha Bandhan in North India: Rakhi festival is another reflection of rich culture and traditions in the regions of North India like Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and other states. Though the festival is celebrated in the traditional way in these states involving a Rakhi tying ceremony performed by sisters and brother, some states also observe other rituals as well based on their customs and traditions.

Uttarakhand: In Kumaon district of this state, the festival also observes men changing their “Janeyu” threads apart from the usual Rakhi celebrations.

Jammu: The celebrations of Raksha Bandhan commence a month before the actual day of Raksha Bandhan Festival in which people indulge themselves in the kite flying festival. The sky gets covered with colorful and beautiful kites that are flown with the help of the special strings “Gattu Dor” by the locals.

Rajasthan: The Marwari community of the state observes the tradition of Lumba rakhi in which a sister ties these beautiful Rakhis on the wrists of her brother’s wife or Bhabhi. As she is the one who takes great care and prayers for the well-being of her brother so that he can take good care of his sister, therefore, she deserves equal respect and loves just like him from sisters.

Haryana: The festival of Raksha Bandhan is celebrated as “salono” in this state in which an amulet is tied around the wrist of people by the priests of the temples. The usual ceremony of Raksha Bandhan Festival tying is also observed in this region, but the above ceremony is the main attraction of this state on Rakhi Purnima.

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6 Amazing Festivals of Jaipur

6 Amazing Festivals of Jaipur Famously called the Pink City, one among The explanations why it attracts many tourists per annum is because of its vibrant heritage culture of Jaipur. Jaipur is legendary for its lively people that bring the town to life by celebrating a variety of fairs and festivals. Rajasthan has different sorts of folk entertainment, customs, and attires which vary from region to region holding faithful the maxim of unity in diversity. People rejoice and revel with great joy keeping alive the age-old traditions within the sort of festivals within the capital city of Rajasthan.

Festivals are the simplest thanks to nourishing the bonds between people coming from different regions, religions, caste, and creed in Jaipur. A number of the famous festivals celebrated with lively merriment in Jaipur are Teej, Diwali, Gangaur, Kite Festival, Elephant Festival, Camel Festival, etc. Originating from old traditions, these festivals and fairs are being rejoiced since ages. The lively colors and therefore the means of merriment during these festivals bind the people with harmony and peace. Crammed with interesting ceremonies, rituals, and awe-inspiring performances, Visiting festivals of Jaipur are one among the simplest activities to try to to in Jaipur.

Rajasthan is home to majestic forts and palaces which play host to the foremost fantastic festivals with cultural celebrations, delicacies and a number of entertaining performances.
The celebrations of festivals in Jaipur have boosted tourism within the state as most of the people come here to rejoice and forget their worries enjoying the lively and joyous events. These merrymaking events have made famous the traditions and customs of Rajasthan on the planet map. Over the past few years, these festivals have taken the shape of grand celebrations becoming the foremost fancy and interesting thing for tourists. The marvelous festivals and places of Jaipur should definitely get on your bucket list if it isn’t till now Rajasthan Budget tours.

6 Amazing Festivals of Jaipur

Teej Festival

Teej is one of the important monsoon festivals in India, and the most rejoiced festivals of Jaipur celebrated in the month of July-August. This festival is dedicated to Hindu God and Goddess Shiva and Parvati. Though not celebrated all over India, Teej is a significant festival of women in Bihar, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab. And primarily, the people of Jaipur observed it on a massive scale in the form of a fair, known as Sawan Mela. Married women fast for the long life and happiness of their husbands and girls fast for a desirable match 6 Amazing Festivals of Jaipur.

During this festival, women dress up in traditional outfits, wear bangles and Mehandi and carry Goddess Teej in a procession across the city. Decorated elephants, bullock carts, and chariots add to the spectacle. One can also witness a lot of singing, dancing and enjoy traditional Rajasthani cuisine during the festival as part of Jaipur Tour Packages.

6 Amazing Festivals of Jaipur

Gangaur Festival

Observed during the month of March-April, Gangaur Fair is one of the most colorful festivals celebrated with great fervor and devotion not only in Jaipur but also throughout the Rajasthan & is a must-see event, especially for urban travelers. The festival is a celebration of the onset of spring, along with the harvesting period of the farmers. Also, the festival, which is about a hundred years old, is a celebration of marital fidelity. This 18-day festival is marked by the worshipping of Lord Shiva and Goddess Gauri by carving out beautiful clay idols of Gods and Goddesses.

Married women pray for the long life of their husbands while unmarried women pray to get the man of their dreams. On the final day of celebration, the newly carved idols are taken to johars and baori on a procession. The procession of Gangaur starts from the Zanani-Deodhi of the City Palace, among the top places to visit in Jaipur, and goes to various parts of the city and concludes at a place near Talkatora where women bid them farewell with the hope of marital bliss 6 Amazing Festivals of Jaipur.

6 Amazing Festivals of Jaipur

Kite Festival

Every year on 14th January, all of Jaipur is hidden under the shadows of the colorful kites that fill the skyline. The day of Makar Sankranti is considered as an auspicious day as the sun enters into the Uttarayan phase and marks the beginning of the new year according to the Indian calendar. The festival has gained so much popularity that an international kite-flying competition is held for three days and the winner gets some precious prize every year in Jaipur, one of the popular places to visit near Delhi.

While kites fly high in the sky in different shapes and sizes, lights and fireworks in the night sky also add to the beauty and splendor of the celebrations. The entire city comes together to celebrate the festival and is truly an amazing sight for all kite lovers 6 Amazing Festivals of Jaipur.

6 Amazing Festivals of Jaipur

Jaipur Literature Festival

Apart from the religious festival, the city of Jaipur is also famous for the Jaipur Literature Festival. This festival began in 2006 and has now become the largest literary festival conducted in the Asia Pacific. This five-day festival is attended by lakhs of people from both national as well as international boundaries. This festival usually takes place in January each year. Both national, as well as foreign authors, indulge in reading and discussion sessions. The audience gets a chance to get autographed books from various authors 6 Amazing Festivals of Jaipur.

Apart from this, a wide range of stalls of handicrafts and food can also be seen during the festival. In the evening, various music performances take place here. Many renowned socialites can be spotted in Jaipur during the festival.

Kajli Teej Festival

One of the most popular festivals of Jaipur is Kajli Teej which is celebrated all over Rajasthan with great fervour. The festival begins with the procession of goddess Teej in an ornamented palanquin and included decorated elephants, camels, performers, musicians and people in colourful attires. There are impressive performances by various artists and many cultural programmes are organised for entertainment of the people. People decked up in their colourful attires come from different places to take part in the spectacular festivities. For married couples, the festival holds special significance and reflect the rich culture of the place.

The festival showcases the vibrant rural culture of Rajasthan that celebrates it with gaiety to revive marital ties. There are local fairs, bazaars etc held across the city where different artisans come to sell their brilliant handicrafts. Kajli Teej resembles a huge carnival of sorts with the merriment lasting till a week. Rajasthanis are known for their bright colours and resplendent costumes.

Sitla Mata Fair

Sheetla Mata fair may be a pilgrimage to appease the Shitla Mata. the assumption during this area of Rajasthan is that the deity if not pleased causes a little pox epidemic. The deity Sheetla Mata fair is represented by a red stone.

Held on Sheetla Ashtami day within the month of Chaitra, i.e. March April per annum, the fair in Jaipur is sort of big, attended by nearly one lakh people. the present time at the situation of the fair, Seel-Ki-Doongri in Jaipur Rajasthan is believed to possess been erected by Maharaja Madho Singh of Jaipur.
Sheetla Mata may be a Puranic goddess. The word ‘Sheetla’ comes from Sheetal meaning calm. the assumption is that Sheetla Mata appears within the sort of small pox to calm the sufferer after he had been afflicted with a high fever.

A cattle fair also comes up at an equivalent time and therefore the atmosphere is that of a picnic. Rajasthani folk attend this in large numbers with their camels and beautifully decorated bullock carts. Trade is administered in clothes, shoes, food items, utensils and agricultural implements.
Lasting for every week, bullocks, horses, and camels are traded at the fair and awards are given to the simplest breeders.

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Diwali Celebrations in Rajasthan

Diwali Celebrations in Rajasthan, also known as ‘Deepawali‘ is celebrated with whole enthusiasm and devotion in Rajasthan like every part of India. Known as ‘The Festival of Lights’, Diwali is almost celebrated by all religions in Rajasthan. Diwali is celebrated for many reasons. Some celebrate Diwali as it is believed that it marks the starting of the Hindu New Year according to the Lunar calendar. But most people celebrated it as the victory of Goodness over Evil.

The enthusiasm with which people celebrate this festival in Rajasthan elaborates on their zest, passion and importance of this festival. Even a small town of Rajasthan celebrates this festival with tremendous gusto, but the cities of Jodhpur, Udaipur and Jaipur give a whole new meaning to the words festivals and celebrations during Diwali Celebrations in Rajasthan.

Diwali Celebrations in Rajasthan

History of Diwali : How Diwali Started

According to the Hindu epic ‘Ramayana’, Diwali was celebrated for the first time when Lord Ram returned to his home ‘Ayodhya’ after killing Ravan.

It is believed that when returned to Ayodhya along with Laxman, Sita, and Hanuman, people of Ayodhya lit up oil lamps in their homes and turned the dark night into a light festival.

From that day, every year Diwali or Deepawali (Deep mean oil lamps) is celebrated to mark the victory of goodness over evil Diwali Celebrations in Rajasthan.

Diwali Celebrations in Rajasthan

When is Diwali?

The Festival of Lights is known as Deepavali (deep – lamp, vali – array). This is the name of the festival in Southern India and is how the festival is referred to in other Asian countries such as Malaysia and Singapore. In Northern India, it is more commonly known as Diwali Celebrations in Rajasthan, but they are essentially the same celebration.

In these countries and for Hindus around the world, the celebration revolves around the triumph of good over evil, purity over impurity, light over darkness. It is one of the most important Hindu festivals.

Diwali Celebrations in Rajasthan

The Five Days of Diwali

Diwali is a five-day festival that straddles the new moon. Though widely celebrated across all of India, the days may have different names and have additional meanings in some parts of India, there is enough commonality to briefly describe each of the days:

1. Dhanteras

Dhanteras marks the beginning of the five-day festivities of Diwali. On this day, it is customary for people to clean their houses, so they are ready to welcome in Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity, whose Puja is performed in the evening. This is an auspicious day and a lucky day for buying expensive goods, though it is also a day to consider charity for those less well off. Diwali Celebrations in Rajasthan Small clay lamps, called diyas are lit to drive away the shadows of evil spirits.

2. Naraka Chaturdashi

According to Hindu tradition, the demon Narakasura was killed by Lord Krishna on the second day. Marking the coming end of the year in some regions of India, customs on this day are about cleaning the slate before the start of a new year and getting rid of anything bad. People get up early and wash and put on clean or new clothes. In parts of Southern India, this day is celebrated as the main day of Diwali Celebrations in Rajasthan.

3. Diwali

The third day is celebrated on the new moon in Kartik. In most parts of India, this is the most important day of the festival and is the last day of the year in many regions of India. On this day, Lord Rama rescued his wife, Sita, from the demon Ravana and returned home after a long exile. Diwali Celebrations in Rajasthan Candles are lit to celebrate his victory and to light his way home after the battle. In the evening, it may seem like the whole of India is lit by explosions as people set off many fireworks.

4. Balipadyami

The fourth day of Diwali is also the first day of the new year in the Vikram Samvat calendar and may also be known as Pratipada, Govardhan Puja or Annakut. Annakut means ‘mountain of food’, which is a giveaway that today is all about feasting. Tradition has it that on this day, Lord Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill to give shelter from torrential rains to local villagers. Diwali Celebrations in Rajasthan Today, Hindus prepare a great deal of food and take it to the temples to celebrate the beginning of the new year and give thanks to Krishna for his benevolence.

5. Bhai Bij

This is the fifth and last day of Diwali festival. This day celebrates the relationship between brother and sister. Read more about Bhai Bij.

Best places to visit in Rajasthan for Diwali

Diwali is the time when you go home to your family and loved ones; when you buy gifts for each other, light diyas and phuljadhis (sparklers) with the kids in the house. But in some cities and states in India, these pan-India celebrations reach the all-time-high, the grandest form, that calls for a must-visit! Below we have listed Diwali celebrations in some Indian cities where the fervor is electric and welcoming!

Jaisalmer

During Diwali, Jaisalmer becomes magical with colors and shimmers. The city shines brightly with firecrackers, lights, diyas and sweets. In the Sam Sand Dunes, people enjoy stay and have fun with music, dance, camels and sand dunes. On the evening of Diwali, a parade marching through the city can be witnessed, Diwali Celebrations in Rajasthan.

Jaipur

Jaipur looks just wow during Diwali. The way it is decorated with lights is worth watching for every tourist. The glittering bazaars are filled with lights and many offers to attract the customers. There is a Diwali Carnival which is an exhibition running for a week where several shopkeepers gather to create a perfect arena for shopaholics. After celebrating Diwali in Jaipur, you can enjoy the Rajasthan tour packages from Jaipur. You can also visit the Nahargarh Fort at the top of the hills of Jaipur to see the panoramas of gleaming Jaipur.

Pushkar

Pushkar is as usual a peaceful place even during Diwali. This city is a perfect place for those who wants to relax and stay away from noise pollution and hustle-bustle of the city life. The Pushkar Lake is a major attraction to see this time when it is illuminated with diyas. Also, the homes and streets are lighted and geared up for Diwali celebrations. All the cities are getting for Diwali at this time Pushkar gets busy in getting it prepared for upcoming Pushkar fair which is just after 15 days of Diwali Celebrations in Rajasthan.

This fair is the largest cattle fair in the world. Several competitions and contests can be enjoyed during this time. It is an ideal time to catch the glimpses of royalty and grandeur of Rajasthan and get connect with its culture and traditions by booking Rajasthan travel packages.

Udaipur

Just like other cities of Rajasthan, Udaipur is also filled with lights and diyas at every home and street. The City Palace looks beautiful and charming with the illuminating lights. In the evening, people reach at the lakes to float the diywas in the water of a lake. The views are mesmerizing when thousands of diyas float in water.

People celebrate Diwali by exchanging gifts and sweets with other families and friends. Younger ones seek blessings from their elder ones. Locals wear traditional attire on this day and adorn themselves with gold and silver ornaments. The best way to witness Diwali celebration is by staying with a local family to get a deep insight of this festival, Diwali Celebrations in Rajasthan.

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Jaipur Literature Festival

Jaipur Literature Festival has been described as “the greatest literary show on Earth” and it’s certainly the one every writer hopes to be invited to. It’s larger, louder, brighter and more bombastic than any festival I’ve ever attended, with drums, dancing, non-stop food and drink and unbelievably exotic parties thrown in forts and palaces. The flow of alcohol reaches Hemingway proportions. Quite frankly, it makes Hay or Edinburgh look like afternoon tea with the vicar.

It’s free, and draws crowds from all over India. Jaipur And by crowds, I mean as many as 30,000 people in one day, many of them sleeping in the street or on the platforms of Jaipur railway station to attend. Stars this year included Tom Stoppard, the irreverent Briton-basher Shashi Tharoor, Bollywood superstar Nawazuddin Siddiqui and former Afghanistan president Hamid Karzai. I got a 45-minute slot, too, as well as visiting a couple of local schools; the children I met formidably intelligent and informed Jaipur Literature Festival.

Jaipur Literature Festival

History of Jaipur Literature Festival

Jaipur Literature Festival, 2022 though widely popular in and outside India will just be celebrating its 10th year in 2016. The festival was initiated on modest grounds in the year 2006 with only 18 writes including William Dalrymple, Namita Gokhale, Shobhaa De and Hari Kunzru and 14 other authors and only 100 attendees Jaipur Tour Packages.

In the subsequent years, the attendance to the festival grew while more famous and distinguished names from the literary and other relevant disciplines began to participate in the extravaganza, which was acquiring a wider dimension now. In the year 2009, about 12,000 people attended the Jaipur Literature Festival with over 140 authors and speakers including Vikram Seth, Shashi Tharoor, Hanif Kurieshi, Ashok Vajpayee, Tariq Ali etc. speaking or participating in the event.

However, in the year 2012, the festival ran into difficulty when author Salman Rushdie cancelled his complete tour of India over the possible threats to assassinate him over the readings of his controversial book, The Satanic Verses. Later on even the Government of India intervened to stop the proposed video link between the author and the festival participants Jaipur Literature Festival.

For 2015, there were 181 speakers including the Nobel Laureate V.S Naipaul, Amish Tripathi and Chetan Bhagat etc. This year the festival also expanded beyond its usual boundaries of Diggi Palace, hosting over 300 events at 10 separate venues like Clarkes Amer, The Jaipur Attractions BookMark at Narain Niwas and also Amer Fort and Hawa Mahal as well. Again 2015 marked a new beginning for the festival when its spread its wings to London’s Southbank and Colarado in United States.

Jaipur Literature Festival

Jaipur Literature Festival Tickets

Jaipur Literature Festival is a free un-ticketed event, but registration for the same is compulsory. However, the Evening Music Sessions at Clarks Amer are ticketed and you need to contact the press office if you want to attend these events.

Timings for the Jaipur Literature Festival

The usual timings for the Jaipur Literature Festival are from 9.30 am-10 pm, including all the musical performances. However, for any change in the schedule or for more information you can contact us.

Jaipur Literature Festival

Sightseeing Around Jaipur Literature Festival

Since you would be in Jaipur for the Jaipur Literature Festival, you would want to explore the other destinations in the Pink City. The Hawa Mahal, a pyramidal palace built of red and pink sandstone, is the foremost attraction. Amber Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a masterpiece and assumes majestic proportions. Another example of outstanding architecture is the Jal Mahal Palace in Jaipur.

The Albert Hall, built in honor of the Princes of Wales, depicts the culture of Meenas, Bhils and Lohars. For the delights of shopping, head to places like Tripolia Bazaar, Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar. The Doll Museum, which showcases dolls clad in various attires representing different cultures, is definitely worth visiting. Birla Planetarium, which showcases various facets of astronomy to the general public, also attracts tourists in large numbers.

How to Reach

People from all parts of the world come to observe the beauty and to know about cultural legacy of Jaipur Literature Festival. Being the major city of the country, Jaipur is well connected to almost every corner of India via different means of public transport including air, rail and road.

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