Festivals of Rajasthan

Map of Rajasthan

Rajasthan is the biggest state of India in terms of area covered. The surreal dessert state of Rajasthan is considered as one of the liveliest states of the country. Replete with culture, tradition and history, Rajasthan has a charm of its own. Among other things the festivals of Rajasthan have made this state of India one of the country’s most popular state. Festivals are synonymous with Rajasthan. Whether for celebrating the change of season or for celebrating any religious event, Rajasthan festivals make most the part of the calendar of the Rajasthanis.

Held during January, Camel Festival is an important festival of the state. This grand festival is held in Bikaner once in a year. The parade of colorfully decorated camels marks the beginning of this lively festival of Rajasthan. The festival is also marked by a pageant show where camels are the participants. While on the first day of the festival the contest for the best ornamentation, best breed as well as fur removing design is held, the second day witnesses races of camels along with dance performances of the camels. Music and folk dancing also form an important part of the festival. The festival ends with a brilliant show of fireworks.

Elephant festival is held in Jaipur each year in the month of February and March. The festival is held around the time of Holi, which is the festival of colors. During this festival, elephants which are beautifully decorated make a procession. Parade of horses, camels and elephants along with folk dancing mark the beginning of this festival. Different elephant games like races between elephants, polo matches on elephants and tug of war between elephants and humans make an important part of this festival. However, the showstopper remains the contest of the ‘Best Decorated Elephant’.

Desert festival, a popular cultural festival of Rajasthan is held in January and February in Jaisalmer. A showcase of Rajasthani crafts and performing arts, music and folk dance are the crowd pullers of this festival. Craft shops, camel racing, turban-tying competition, longest moustache competition and Mr. Desert competition are the important events of this festival.

Gangaur festival is the most significant traditional festival, which is celebrated in the months of March and April. The festival is symbolic of marital happiness and is mainly devoted to Gauri. This festival is celebrated for 18 days throughout Rajasthan.

In addition to these, there are several other festivals of Rajasthan that have become a part of the lives of the people living here.