What’s the best thing about Rajasthan? Other than the incredible history, beautiful architecture and amazing food, Rajasthan is a state that is constantly celebrating. From festivals that commemorate the age-old relationship between man and camel, to music festivals in the dunes and lit fests in the city, there are many faces of culture in Rajasthan.
Here’s a round-up of festivals in Rajasthan:
1. Desert Festival, Jaisalmer (17 to 19 February 2019)
The longer your moustache is, the more welcome you are at the Desert Festival! Records have been broken in Rajasthan for men with the longest moustaches and till today massive crowds gather for a glimpse at this unique competition. You can also head to the Desert Festival for camel polo, folk music recitals and incredible dances depicting historical battles fought on the sands of Rajasthan.
2. Pushkar Fair (4 to 12 November 2019)
The Pushkar Fair is held every year along the banks of the Pushkar Lake. The massive events attracts about 300,000 people and more than 20,000 camels, horses and cattle. Local herders barter livestock at the festival while tourists explore the clothing and handicraft stalls. Other than this of course you have folk dances, musical performances and other festivities that keep both visitors and locals entertained.
3. Teej Festival, Jaipur (July – September)
The Teej Festival is popularly celebrated in northern and western India in Rajasthan, Bihar, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh and Haryana. The festival celebrates the arrival of the monsoon and the relief from the scorching summer heat. It is also popularly celebrated by women who wear green sarees and bangles and perform a special puja for their husbands.
4. Jaipur Literature Festival (January 24 – 28)
Described as the ‘greatest literary show on Earth’ the Jaipur Literature Festival is known around the world for bringing together writers, thinkers, humanitarians and leaders in various fields on one platform to engage and debate. The festival also has a music stage which hosts some of India’s finest indie artists as well as local Rajasthani artisans.
5. Kite Festival, Jaipur (14 January)
Also known as Makar Sakranti, Rajasthan’s kite festival attracts kite fliers from across the country to compete in the infamous kite wars. During this time, the skies of Rajasthan are filled with brightly coloured kites sailing away in the breeze with kids and adults alike competing with each other to be the last kite flying in the sky.
6. Camel Festival, Bikaner (12 – 13 Jan 2019)
As the name suggests, the Camel Festival is held every year to honour these noble desert creatures. The celebrations start off with a spectacular display of camels dressed in decorated bridles, heavy necklaces and anklets. The event includes camel races, camel games and a spectacular display of Rajasthani music and dance. The locals perform fire dances and the famous puppet performances tell stories of ancient folklore. The festival closes with a firework’s display which lights up the skies of Bikaner.
7. Kumbhalgarh Festival (1-3 Dec)
The Kumbhalgarh Festival takes place in the backdrop of the stunning Kumbhalgarh Fort. Traditional artists, craftsmen and some of Rajasthan’s most talented performers put on their best shows and exhibitions in a stunning display of Rajasthan’s culture, music and art.
8. Mewar Festival (8-9 April 2019)
Celebrated to mark the beginning of spring, the Mewar festival is an integral part of the culture of the people of Udaipur. As a part of the celebrations, locals adorn idols of Gangaur (Goddess Parvati) and Isar (Lord Shiva), followed by a procession that moves through the city. The festival is a celebration of the rich heritage and culture of Mewar, and the entire city joins in the festivities with much pride and joy.
9. Dhulandi (21 March)
Dhulandi is celebrated the day after Holi and marks the beginning of spring. The festival is celebrated with much enthusiasm in Jaipur with locals and foreigners alike painting the Pink City with colour, sharing sweets and greetings and visiting each other’s homes.
10. Braj Holi (16 to 17 March)
The Braj Festival is a two-day festival held every year in the month of February or March, a few days before Holi. The festival is celebrated in Bharatpur and is dedicated to Lord Krishna to honour the true love between Radha and Krishna.
11. Sacred Festival
The Sacred Festival of Pushkar is a celebration of music and yoga which blends soul-stirring sounds and holistic therapies to make it a wholesome experience for the mind, body and soul.
