Introduction
Impregnated
with history and legends, Rajasthan is a perfect kaleidoscope of traditions
and culture. From one corner to the other, the state is a land of cognition
and experience. Valour, romance and spirituality permeate the soil all over.
Pushkar, 11 km from Ajmer, is one such place where devotion could be said to
have a tongue. The sights and sounds speak bulks, making us aware of the
quintessence that lies behind every action that the folks perform. The town
is held in high regard by the Hindu community all over the country and the
world. The only Brahma Temple and the Pushkar Lake reveal all as you step on
the town's sacred soil.
With the advent of the Pushkar Fair, the whole town of Pushkar clads itself
in a livelier attire that serves as the foreground among all other festivals
of the state. Devotees and vacationers arrive in hordes to observe the
largest camel fair in the world and to perform ablutions at the holy Pushkar
Lake. The singular event brings a variety of experiences to the sightseers.
Traditions, customs and culture come alive at one place. Village folks from
all over the state arrive here. Some arrive here to deal in camels, the
highlight of the fair. Some flock to observe the religious rites at the
temple and the lake while there are some who appear to partake in the
festivities.
Celebrations
The Hindi month of Kartik announces the arrival of the grand Pushkar Fair.
According to the Georgian calendar, the time is around October/ November.
Livestock owners arrive from all parts with their well bred camels, bullocks
and horses. Each of the sellers tries to strike the best deal and so wishes
to catch buyers before others could. Camels and horses of all breeds are on
sale. Camels are bought, decorated and paraded on the sand dunes. Camel and
horse races are also organised to showcase the mettle of the cattle. The
whole day is marked with fun, flavour and excitement.
The Pushkar Lake is a sight to behold. Devotees turn up to take a soul
cleansing dip into the divine waters of the lake. Offerings are made at the
Brahma Temple. Rishis and priests fill the air with religious chantings.
Tourists make a beeline to watch the activities at the temple. Pilgrims pray
for their relatives and wish a prosperous life ahead.
As
the evening approaches, the scene picks up heat and spectators teem with
spirit. It's the time when folk artists take their turn to put up cultural
performances. Dancers and musicians gathers from all over the state.
Traditionally attired men and women perform to the best of their abilities
as folk tunes continue to stir emotions. Bonfires are lit and women dancers
move to the nostalgic musical accompaniment. Art forms like Chari, Ghoomar
and Fire Dance take the spectators by storm. The fiets continues late into
the night under the star studded desert sky. The influence is such that
those who are fortunate enough to be here may never want to leave.
Other Attractions
Pushkar offers a cocoon of spiritual peace and blessings to devotees. There
are a number of temples located around the Pushkar Lake. Visit the sites to
get to the true essence of the holy town.
» Pushkar Lake
» Brahma Temple
» Savitri Temple
» Rangnath Temple Varah Temple
» Apteshwar Temple
Reaching Options
Jaipur, at a distance of 131 km from Pushkar, is the closest air
connection. The airport has regular flights operating to places like Delhi,
Mumbai, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Jodhpur and Udaipur. Ajmer, 11 km from Pushkar,
is the closest railhead. The Ajmer Railway Station is linked with all the
major destinations of the state. Bus services connect Pushkar with places
like Delhi, Jodhpur and Bikaner.
