They say that if you have to see the real India, you should see the Indian villages. That is where the soul of the country lies. Truly said, the India of the villages are entirely different from the India of the cities. The Indian villages are a rare culmination of cultural vibrancy and religious festivals. The Pushkar mela, the world’s largest camel and cattle fair, is a treat for both your mind and eyes.
An encapsulation of various cultural activities, the Pushkar Mela is conducted in the town of Pushkar, Rajasthan for a period of 5 days starting from the Karthik Ekadasi to Karthik Poornima. The activities are conducted near the Pushkar Lake which according to the Hindu Legend, is the place where God Brahma sprung up from the sacred waters. So during the Pushkar Mela, thousands swim across the river to take bath in the sacred waters.
The atmosphere is colored with Rajasthani dance, music and various other cultural extravaganzas. Initially started as a venue for selling camel and livestock, the Pushkar later on developed to a larger festival involving competitions and performances. One of the best things that can be done while at Pushkar is the Camel Safari. Riding on the camel through sand dunes of the Aravalli range can be quite exciting. Please make sure to take enough water with you for the ride. Also book in advance to avoid any last minute delays. The weather needs to be checked for sand dunes before you get on the safari.
The city of Pushkar is also called the city of temples because there are more than 400 temples in and around the city. The main temple is that of Lord Brahma, which is the only Brahma temple in the country. This is one of the most sacred religious places for the Hindus as Lord Brahma along with other Gods and Goddesses performed a yaga there. The Savitri temple, the Rangji temple, the Warah temple and the Apteshwar temple are the other prominent temples of Pushkar.
The Pushkar Lake appeared miraculously when a Lotus fell from Lord Brahma’s hands. The Pushkar Lake is semi-circular in shape and has 52 bathing ghats. The water around each and every ghat has special powers like the Naga kund is known to give fertility while the Roop Tirth gives beauty and charm. The Kapil Vyapi kund helps in curing leprosy and the Mrikand Muni Kund endows wisdom. It is believed that one dip in the lake on Karthik Purnima is worth performing thousands of yagas. The Pushkar lake is also called ‘Tirtharaj’ meaning it is the king of all Tirthas.
Pushkar Mela is the right time to visit Rajasthan as the entire state is filled with fun filled activities and is dressed in festive charm. You could get to know the ethnic roots of your country more closer and relish the festivities of a village. To be part of the celebrations and for comfortable stay in Pushkar, please contact the The Other Home at +91-11-65028027.
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(Photo Courtesy: Brian Mei and Daniel Davidsson)
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