Festivals of Rajasthan
The fascinating magical land of Rajasthan pulsates with numerous traditional festivals that paint the entire state in multihued shades of celebrations that enthrall one and all. The harsh climate and sweltering heat is all forgotten by the people who celebrate all facets of life as religious occasions. Each occasion becomes a thoroughly enjoyed festival that is observed according to the traditional customs of the charming Rajasthani culture. The people of this state celebrate festivals with great joyous spirit no matter which religion or caste they belong to. On the occasion of various festivals, the markets are decorated in various colors and illuminated with lights at night. Men, women and children don new clothes that make the entire atmosphere multi-colored and happy.
These numerous festivals are an integral part of the rich cultural heritage and glorious yet turbulent history of Rajasthan. These festivals become more unique and entertaining for the visitors due to the presence of various animals, like beautifully decorated camels, elephants and horses that are very much a part of the heritage and culture of this state. Bikaner Camel Festival is celebrated as an acknowledgement of the significance of camels in this region and is immensely enjoyed by both domestic as well as international visitors. Other important festivals celebrated in this enchanting state are the Desert Festival, celebrated in the months of January-February for three days, on a full moon night. One can enjoy the enchanting performances of Gair and fire dancers during this festival.
Gangaur is an exclusive festival that is celebrated only in the state of Rajasthan and nowhere else in India. Another enthusiastically celebrated festival of the region is the Kajli Teej. Its festivities in the Bundi region of Rajasthan are quite unique. Here, a long procession is taken out in honor of Goddess Teej, which is accompanied by bejeweled elephants, camels, musicians and dancers. The Marwar and Mewar festivals of Jodhpur and Udaipur, respectively, are celebrated with tremendous pomp and show. The Teej festival is celebrated at the onset of monsoons and is known as the festival of swings, which are swung from the branches of trees and are adorned with flowers. These festivals present a wonderful opportunity for the visitors to participate in various cultural festivities of this region and immerse in the jovial as well as intriguing atmosphere.
Known as the Ship of the Desert, the Camel has been a fundamental part of the lives of the Rajasthani lifestyle since time immemorial. In order to acknowledge the importance of this useful animal, the Camel Festival of Bikaner is celebrated on a grand scale in Rajasthan.
Desert Festival
One of the most famous festivals of Rajasthan, Desert Festival is celebrated every year in the months of January or February. It is celebrated for a duration of three days and is concluded on the day of the full moon, known as Purnima.
Gangaur Festival
A very important festival in Rajasthan, Gangaur Festival is celebrated with much enthusiasm and joy. Exclusive to the state of Rajasthan, Gangaur Festival is celebrated nowhere else in India.
Kajli Teej Festival
The Kajli Teej of Rajasthan is a very unique festival of India. Kajli Teej is celebrated exclusively in the Bundi region of Rajasthan. It is celebrated in the Hindu month of Bhadra (July-August).
Marwar Festival
Celebrated during the months of September-October, the Marwar Festival in Jodhpur is dedicated to the folk heroes of Rajasthan. The entire city of Jodhpur comes alive with lively celebrations of the Marwar Festival in Rajasthan.
Mewar Festival
The best time to visit Udaipur is during March-April. This is the time Mewar festival of Udaipur takes place. The whole city of Udaipur is decorated beautifully in colorful streamers and one can feel that a grand celebration is just round the corner.
Teej Festival
The Teej Festival of Rajasthan is one of the most important and the most widely celebrated festivals in India. Teej Festival is also known as the “Festival of Swings” as women tie swings on the branches of trees and enjoy swinging on them.
