Pushkar Camel Fair: The Vibrant Cultural Celebration of Rajasthan
Rajasthan, the land of vibrant colors, magnificent palaces, and regal heritage, is also famous for its cultural events and festivals. One such festival that attracts visitors from all over the world is the Pushkar Camel Fair. This five-day annual event held in the small town of Pushkar, located in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan, is a perfect blend of cultural celebrations, religious rituals, and a bustling market of camels and cattle.
History and Significance of Pushkar Camel Fair
Pushkar Camel Fair has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. It was initially started as a cattle trading event where farmers and traders from nearby villages would gather to buy and sell their livestock. With time, it evolved into a grand festival that celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan.
The significance of the Pushkar Camel Fair lies in its religious and cultural value. It is believed that Lord Brahma, the Hindu God of creation, had created the Pushkar Lake in Pushkar town. The fair coincides with the Kartik Purnima, a full moon day that marks the end of the Hindu month of Kartik. The devotees believe that taking a dip in the holy Pushkar Lake on this day will cleanse them of their sins and bring them good luck.
The Fair’s Vibrant Atmosphere
The Pushkar Camel Fair is a vibrant event that offers a plethora of activities to the visitors. The fair is held in a vast ground on the outskirts of the town, which is transformed into a colorful, bustling market of camels, cattle, and other domestic animals. The sight of thousands of camels, adorned with vibrant colors and jingling bells, is a treat to the eyes.
The fair is not just limited to cattle trading; it offers various other activities to the visitors. One can witness cultural performances like folk dances, music shows, and puppet shows. The evenings are particularly lively with bonfires, cultural shows, and traditional Rajasthani delicacies.
The fair also hosts various competitions like the best-dressed camel, the longest mustache, and the matka phod (breaking a clay pot while blindfolded) competition. These competitions attract a significant number of participants and spectators.
Another significant attraction of the fair is the hot air balloon ride. Visitors can take a hot air balloon ride over the fairground and get a bird’s eye view of the bustling market and the colorful festivities.
The Camel Trading Market
The camel trading market is the main highlight of the Pushkar Camel Fair. The market offers a unique opportunity for traders and farmers to buy and sell their camels and cattle. The traders come from different parts of Rajasthan and neighboring states, and the market offers a vast range of camels, from young to old, decorated with intricate henna designs and colorful clothes.
The market is a perfect place to witness the traditional bargaining style of Rajasthani traders. The buyers and sellers engage in a lively bargaining session that involves hand gestures, facial expressions, and sometimes even heated discussions.
The market is also an excellent place to observe the rural lifestyle and culture of Rajasthan. The traders and farmers come with their families and stay in the makeshift tents near the market. Visitors can witness the traditional cooking style, folk music, and dance performances in these tents.
Religious Significance of the Pushkar Camel Fair
Apart from the cultural and trading activities, the Pushkar Camel Fair also has a religious significance. The fair is held near the holy Pushkar Lake, which is considered one of the holiest places in India. The lake is surrounded by 52 ghats (steps leading to the lake), and devotees take a dip in the holy water to cleanse themselves of their sins.
