Rajasthan is the largest and only desert state in India. However, it is not just these 2 features that make the state of Rajasthan what it is today.
The royal state of Rajasthan is known throughout the world for its timeless hospitality, hundreds of years of culture and traditions, carefully preserved cuisine, and a plethora of fairs and festivals. These are things that attract thousands of people from all walks of life in Rajasthan, every year.
When I think of Rajasthan, I think of colours, cuisine, royalty and heritage. I think of celebrations and parties and fairs and festivals. The very essence of India can be found in Rajasthan.
And today, I will dedicate this post solely to the festivals and fairs of Rajasthan.
Let’s start.
Rajasthan International Folk Festival
Often referred to as the People’s Platform for Creativity and Sustainable Development, this is an annual art and music festival held in Jodhpur. Every year, the festival is celebrated around Sharad Purnima, the night with the brightest full moon.
1. Pushkar Fair
Attracting over 200,000 people and 50,000 camels, the Pushkar Camel Fair is widely regarded as one of the largest camel trade fairs in the world. Lasting approximately 13 days, each day of the fair has its own set of trade activities and competitions. As a bonus, you can also enjoy camel safaris and hot air balloon rides.
2. Desert Festival
This 3-day running festival is organized by Rajasthan Tourism and takes place in February every year. The desert festival in Rajasthan is undoubtedly the most revered festival in Jaisalmer and celebrates the delicacies of the desert like no other place can. The main attractions during this festival include the turban tying and longest mustache competition, local performances by folk artists, and camel races.
3. International Kite Festival
Held in both Jodhpur and the state capital, Jaipur, the international kite festival is held every year around Makar Sankranti. One of the most popular festivals celebrated in Rajasthan, it is a splendid spectrum of kites that cover you all over the desert sky.
4. Jaipur Literature Festival
The Jaipur Literature Festival is sometimes referred to as the greatest literary extravaganza on the planet, which, in my opinion, is not far from the truth. Inviting the creme de la creme of the literary scene, this literary summit takes place in the last quarter of January each year. From Nobel laureates to literary enthusiasts and everyone in between, everyone flocks to Jaipur’s Diggi Palace to be a part of this literary feast.
This, of course, is not an exclusive list of the state’s myriad festivals. But there is a lot that a single publication can accommodate. However, there is much more to Rajasthan than meets the eye. And to experience the unknown, one must be prepared to venture into places most fear to tread.
