History of Rajasthan
According to the Hindu Mythology, the Rajputs of Rajasthan were the descendants of the Kshatriyas or warriors of Vedic India. The emergence of the Rajput warrior clans was in the 6th and 7th centuries. Rajputs ancestry can be divided into two: the "solar" or suryavanshi-those descended from Rama, the hero of the epic Ramayana, and the "lunar" or chandravanshi, who claimed descent from Krishana, the hero of the epic Mahabharata. Later a third clan was added, the agnikula or fire-born, said to have emerged from the flames of a sacrificial fire on Mt Abu.
The colourful and exotic state of Rajasthan, the spell-binding 'Land of the Kings', epitomizes the core essence of India. This is the abode of the mighty Rajputs, a group of intrepid warriors who variously claim descent from the sun, the moon and the flames of a sacrificial fire, lit up to revive the meandering souls of ancient 'kshtraiyas'. Aeons ago, it is believed, Sri Ram drew an arrow in his bow to burn the golden Lanka, the island capital where his wife Sita was held captive by the demon king Ravana. Unfortunately, the prophesy was about to take many innocent lives and hence Lord Ram, in response to the plea of the Gods, pointed the arrow at a distant sea and let it escape. The heat produced by the arrow dried the sea, and in its place, arose a desert, dry, arid and hot.
But again, 'Puranas' proved themselves true, a junction where the mind starts to agree but the heart is still at hold. Fossils excavated in the Thar desert reveal the remains of marine life. And the dancing sands of the desert, fly from one point to another, with a memory of the sea that once shimmered in its place.
It has been accepted that the Rajputs were divided into thirty-six races and twenty-one kingdoms. The Rajput clans gave rise to dynasties like Sisodias of Mewar (Udaipur), the Kachwahas of Amber (Jaipur), the Rathors of Marwar (Jodhpur & Bikaner), the Hadas of Jhalwawar, Kota & Bundi, the Bhattis of Jaisalmer, the Shekhawats of Shekhawati and the Chauhans of Ajmer. Early History
Rajasthan is the north-western region of India, and has remain independent from the great empires. Buddhism failed to make substantial inroad here; the Mauryan empire (321-184 BC), whose most renowned emperor, Ashoka, Converted to Buddhism in 261 BC, had minimal impact in Rajasthan, However, there are Buddhist caves and stupas (Buddhist Shrines) at Jhalawar, in Southern Rajasthan.
Culture of Rajasthan
Rajasthan has a vibrant culture and a thousand-year-old heritage. The official language of the state is Hindi but the primary spoken language is Rajasthani. There are however deviations according to various regions. For instance, Malwi in South-East Rajasthan, Mowati in North East Rajasthan and Jaipuri in the eastern part of the state to name just a few.
The music and dance scene is vibrant with each region having its own brand of entertainment. Udaipur's Ghoomar dance, Gair Ghoomer dance of the Bheel tribals, the fire dance of Jasnathis to name just a few of the popular dances of Rajasthan. As far as music is concerned both devotional as well as festive music recitals are performed and instruments include both stringed and the autophonic instruments along with percussion. The Sarangi, jantar and Ektara are some of Rajasthan's most popular musical instruments.
Rajasthan is renowned for its beautiful hand embroidery. The Zari, bagaru, sanganeer along with block, tie and die prints are world famous and earns a good amount of foreign exchange for India as export items and commodities. It is also famous for its kundan and gold jewellery, patari craftwork and brasswork and stone engravings. Rajasthani Bandhini sarees and the quintessential Jodhpur shoes have both carved a niche for themselves.
Rajasthan is the richest state in India as far as art and handicrafts are concerned. It is believed that the sheer desolate and barren landscape of the state has made its people to be more creative which is amply reflected in their dress pattern. Men are dressed in full sleeved shirts with a potia on their head. During the festivals, they were churidar and pyjamas along with a colorful turban. The turban can be an indicator to ones class and social status. Women are at the dazzling best with their Ghagra, Kanchuli and Orni, surma in their eyes, mehendi in their palms, gorgeous nose ring, ear rings and necklaces all of which makes them look absolutely stunning in the backdrop of the desolate desert landscape.
Ancient Hindu scriptural epics make reference to sites in present-day Rajasthan. The Holy Pilgrimage site of Pushkar is mentioned in both the Mahabharata and Ramayana.
Dance and Music of Rajasthan
Dance and Music of Rajasthan Being a land of royalty, the rulers of Rajasthan have all along been great patrons of music and dance. Needless to say, the music and dances of Rajasthan draw inspiration from its legends that abound in valor and courage as also romance.
The striking feature of Rajasthan's music and dance scene is that there is great variety. In fact, nothing much has changed since the time of their inception, probably a thousand years back. The music and dance are rooted in tradition. Although music and dance are an integral part of the daily life of Rajasthan, it is more pronounced during festivals. Songs of ancient poets like Kabir, Malookdas and Meera have become an integral part of the Rajasthani folklore. Apart from festivals, music and dance are also performed during special occasions like marriage, and childbirth.
There are certain exclusive musician communities like the Bhats, the Charans, the Bhopas, the Dholis to name just a few of the communities who have been performing the age old musical soirees in Rajasthan.
Rajasthani folk music are accompanied by traditional instruments like Baara, Algoza, Sarangi, Jantar, Ektara etc. all of which adds punch to the Rajasthani music scene. The music of Rajasthan is very vibrant and the manner in which Rajasthani music has evolved by absorbing the unique features of its adjoining states like Gujrat, Haryana and Punjab has meant that Rajasthani music is bold and evocative. It has already carved a niche for itself in not only India but has also been very popular overseas, courtesy the "Festival of India" shows that are conducted in a select few western countries.
Architecture of Rajasthan
Architecture of Rajasthan India tour takes you to the vibrant and striking land of Rajasthan which was the home of the Rajput warrior clans who had ruled here for many years. The desert state has some of India's most romantic cities like Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Jaipur and the list is endless. The vast area of Rajasthan is dotted with the most imposing and magnificent forts and palaces in the world. The Rajputs were prolific builders and today these magnificent structures tell the story of gallantry, courage and tragedy of that bygone era.
The majestic forts, intricately carved temples, and decorated havelis are part of the architectural heritage of Rajasthan.Many tourists visit Rajasthan to explore this traditional art. These Forts and Palaces of Rajasthan can be an inspiration for an architecture lover. When we talk about the architecture of Rajasthan the names, which strike our mind, are Jantar Mantar, Dilwara Temples, Chittorgarh Fort, Lake Palace Hotel, City Palaces, and Jaisalmer Havelis.
Jaisalmer Havelis depict a true picture of the royal heritage of Rajasthan.The Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli in Jaisalmer was built in the 19th century by two architect brothers. The interesting fact about the construction of this Haveli was that the two brothers concentrated on either side separately, which could give a proper symmetry to the structure. Paintings in miniature style monopolize the walls in the interior. Mighty tuskers carved out of yellow sandstone stand guard to the Haveli.Another popular Haveli in Jaisalmer is Salim Singh Ki Haveli, which was built about 300 years ago and has a beautifully arches roof with superb carved brackets in the form of Peacocks.
The architecture of Rajasthan is basically secular and draws a lot of inspiration from the Mughals, while the later day architecture also embraces European interiors. The structures like those of mahals, zenanas, diwan-I-aam, diwan-I-khas, sils, mandir, bagh chatris, and ramparts all display these art forms. One can trace the historic interventions in the Lodhi and Mughal periods and their absorption into the traditional architecture of Rajasthan.
Fairs and Festivals of Rajasthan
Rajasthan, a barren desert land, becomes resplendent with the colors of joyous celebration and gay abandon of its fairs and festivals. There is a fair for every religious occasion, every change of season and every harvest, all invariably a reflection of the genius of their arts and crafts and their ascetic refinement. Rajasthan has all the usual Hindu and Muslim festivals, some celebrated with special local fervor as well as a number of festivals of its own. The exact dates, determined by the lunar calendar have specific religious significance.
Camel Festival - Bikaner
Time - January
The year unfolds with the Camel Festival at Bikaner in January. The enchanting desert city comes to life with joyous music, lilting rhythms and gay festivities. There are camel races and camel dances, and onlookers are fascinated by the languid charms and grace of the decorated ships of the desert.
Nagaur Fair - Nagaur
Time - Between January and February
The famous Nagaur Fair essentially an animal fair is held annually between late January and early February. Situated half way between Bikaner and Jodhpur, Nagaur awakens with the thronging of cattle, horses and camels accompanied by their colorfully turbaned owners. There is earnest bargaining between owners and buyers, and plenty of fun and festivity. Games, tug-of-war contests, camel races and strains of ballads create a joyful atmosphere with the setting sun in the background.
Desert Festival - Jaisalmer
Time - Full Moon of February
One of the most popular of the festivals,the Desert Festival of Jaisalmer coincides with the full moon in February. A three-day journey into the heart of the Thar Desert and the golden city of Jaisalmer it is a true show on the sands. The desert pulsates with a myriad of Rajasthani dances: Ghoomer, Gangaur, Gair Dhap, Moria, Chari and Tehratal. The famous Gair dancers and the Fire dances are the special highlights of the festival. Folk performers like musicians, ballad singers, snake charmers, and puppeteers all exhibit their traditional skills.
There are exciting camel dances, camel acrobatics, camel races, and camel polo, competitions for the best decorated camel, tug-of-war between musclemen, a turban tying competition and a Mr. Desert contest. The culmination is a sound and light spectacle on a moonlit night amidst sand dunes.
Elephant Festival - Jaipur
Time - March
Celebrated also in March around Holi (festival of colors) is the Elephant Festival of the capital Jaipur, a tourists' delight. The mighty mammals claim center stage and stride majestically parading their decorated trunks and tusks. The festival begins with a procession of elephants, camels and horses followed by folk dancers at their entertaining best. The god worshiped on the occasion, Ganesh or Ganapati, is the elephant son of Shiva and Parvati.
Gangaur - All over Rajasthan
Time - March-April
One of Rajasthan's most important local festivals is the spring festival of Gangaur celebrated in March-April. Dedicated to Gauri, a manifestation of goddess Parvati and the consort of Lord Shiva, it symbolizes conjugal bliss and marital happiness. A festival of maidens and married women, it begins on the day following Holi, and is celebrated for 18 days. While married women pray for the well being of their husbands, young girls pray for a groom of their choice. Wooden image of Gauri are colorfully dressed and bedecked with jewels. Offerings are made in every home accompanied by the singing and dancing of women.
The festival is celebrated with great pomp in Bikaner, Jodhpur, Nathdwara and Jaisalmer. Around Bundi, Kota and Jhalawar the fields are covered with blossoming poppy flowers at this time. Maidens collect these flowers and make wreaths for the goddess. In Jaipur on the 17th day following Holi a grand procession is taken out of the City Palace and the goddess Gauri is carried in an elaborate palanquin led by colorfully attired elephants, camels and horses. Dancers, musicians, drum beaters, bandsmen, and battle dressed chariots accompany the procession.
Mewar Festival - Udaipur
The Mewar Festival of Udaipur welcomes spring, offering the best overview of Rajasthani culture through songs, dances, processions, devotional music and firework displays.
Urs Ajmer Sharif - Ajmer
Time - Set According To The Lunar Calendar
Held according to the lunar calendar, in memory of the saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, helper of the poor, Urs Ajmer Sharif - celebrated at Ajmer - is one of the biggest Muslim fairs in India. The six days that the saint is said to have gone into seclusion, to shed his mortal coil off and fee his soul, are dedicated to his memory and pilgrims converge here from within India and al over the world.
Teej - All over Rajasthan but mainly in Jaipur
Time - August
Teej, the festival of swings celebrated mainly in Jaipur, marks the advent of the monsoons. Celebrated on the third day of the bright lunar half of the month of Shravan (August) it is, like Gangaur, dedicated to the goddess Parvati, commemorating the day when she was united with Lord Shiva after an agonizing separation.
Marwar Festival - Jodhpur
Time - October
Organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan, the Marwar Festival was originally known as the Maand Festival. Maand is a classical style of folk music centered on the romantic life style of Rajasthan's rulers, and Maand Raag recreates the old world charm and graceful dances of the desert. Held for two days during the full moon, Sharad Purnima, in October it is celebrated mainly in Jodhpur. Folk artists bring to life the inspiring mythologies, folk stories, tales and legends of battles, war victories and valor.
Pushkar Fair - Pushkar
Time - October - November
Pushkar, separated from Ajmer by Nag Pahar, the 'Snake Mountain' is right on the edge of the desert. The town clings to the small but beautiful Pushkar Lake with its many bathing ghats and temples. An important pilgrimage center for Hindus, it is internationally famed for its huge Camel and Cattle Fair. During the fair, Rajasthani tribals, Indian pilgrims, filmmakers and tourists from all over the world converge here. If you are anywhere near striking distance at the time it's an event not to be missed.
Other Fairs and Festivals
There is an endless process of Rajasthan's fairs and festivals on the Indian calendar; the Chandrabhaga Fair in Jhalawar, Summer Festival at Mount Abu, Kapil Muni Fair along the Kolayat lake, Sri Mahavirji Fair of the Jains, Shitala Ashtami held at Chaksu near Jaipur, Ramdeoji Fair near Pokhran in Jaisalmer; al these in addition to the major Hindu festivals of Holi, Dussehra, Diwali and Raksha Bandhan.
Shopping in Rajasthan
Rajasthan is like a shopper's paradise. You can find a range of items in Rajasthan right from handicrafts to paintings to gems and jewelry. Shopping in Rajasthan is like a treat for the shoppers. There is something in the Rajasthan, India shopping places for each and every person.
Read this Rajasthan shopping guide further to know more about shopping attractions in Rajasthan:
Jewelry
Rajasthan is the home place of some of the most amazing hand crafted jewelry. Also, the hand-cut gems industry has one of the world's biggest centers in Rajasthan. This state provides India with some important precious and semi precious stones. Other famous works of Rajasthan include Silver smithy, Lac works, Kundan work, Minakari work, Enameled gold jewellery, etc.
Paintings
Some of the most expressive, bright and amazing paintings can be found in Rajasthan. The most famous Rajasthani paintings include:
Miniature Art
Phads & Pichwais
Folk Painting
Thought the use of synthetic colors is rampant, the traditional painters still use mineral and vegetable dyes.bhi Leatherwear
The popular leatherwear of Rajasthan includes footwear (especially jutis/mojris), musical instruments, etc. The hides of dead animals are used (beaten, tanned and dyed) for the purpose. The places famous for leatherwear are Jaipur, Jodhpur, Barmer, Jaisalmer, Bikaner and so on.
Stone Carving
The stone carving work in Rajasthan includes magnificent idols, panels, figurines, balconies, etc. the material used ranges from white marble to green Kota, to white and gray soapstone.
Textile
The most famous types of textiles, along with the places where they are mainly found are given below:
Hand-block prints (Sanganer, Bagru)
Tie and dye (Bandhej, Bandani, Batik, Mothra, Ekdali, Shikari, Cheent)
Bandhej (Jodhpur, Sikar, Jaisalmer, Barmer, Pali, Udaipur, Jaipur)
Lehriya (Udaipur)
Blue Pottery
Maharaja Ram Singh introduced this Persian art form in Rajasthan. it is an art form in which a distinctive material like the ground quartz stone is used. Even the color scheme is unique, consisting of blue (oxide of cobalt), green (oxide of copper) and the external white.
Dhurries And Carpets
Dhurries (simple rugs) and carpets of Rajasthan are quite famous. They are made on looms in villages. A variety of patterns are used, like floral, geometric, etc. some of the known places for this are Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Tonk, etc.
Terracotta
Terracotta represents an old craft in Rajasthan. The image is sculpted on a semi solid paste of dust, mud. Later it is dried and polished in color. Some of the famous places, along with their specialty are:
Alwar (paper thin kagji pottery)
Bikaner (painted pottery tinted with lac colors)
Jaisalmer (stone wares)
Molela, Udaipur (wall plaques with images of Heroes or the religious ones)
Wooden Artifacts
Another popular shopping attraction of Rajasthan is wooden artifacts. There is use of wood in Rajasthan to make everything, from furniture to artifacts. The wooden artifacts include chairs with painted backs, tables with marble-top, camel-hide stools, cabinets with carvings and so on.
Pushkar Tour With Golden Triangle Reservation
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