There are several regions in the desert state of Rajasthan that celebrate the popular annual Festival called Gangaur Festival. This Rajasthani festival is celebrated in several parts of the state where the Mewars once ruled. Udaipur is one of the most significant places for Mewar Rule over several dynasties.
As the warm summer arrives the harvest of spring is celebrated with much pomp and splendour. This is one of the best times to witness the colorful vibrancy of the Mewar cultures and traditions.
Here are some interesting details about the shiny festival of Gangaur.
‘Gangaur’ is the name of Goddess Parvati, so the celebration and involvement of women in this festival is very significant. This is the best time to see the local traditional and gaudy attire as the Rajasthani women’s clothes are decorated with mirror work, vibrant colors, sequins, jewellery, semi – precious stones etc.
History of Mewar Festival
The Mewar Festival welcomes the advent of the season of Spring and coincides with the Gangaur Festival of Rajasthan. There is also a religious significance apart from culture significance to this festival which is of great importance to women. Gangaur is the Goddess of Conjugal & Marital Bliss. Hence, unmarried girls participate and pray for the best match in their lives. Married women pray for husband’s good health and marital happiness.
When is the Mewar Festival?
As the summer months approach, people of Rajasthan prepare for the well-known festival in India called the Gangaur celebrations. There are various rituals organized here to welcome the spring season. The festival falls in the calendar months of March/ April each year and this year it will be held on 18 Mar 2018.
Where is it Celebrated?
This colorful festival is known all over the country, the essence of the festival is seen and heard of all over the state of Rajasthan. However, one of the main spots to see the festival celebrated in full zeal, pomp & splendour is Udaipur, though it spreads to various regions too.
How is it Celebrated?
The Mewar culture is seen when the people of Rajasthan perform cultural shows, folk dances and sing traditional songs. Business people decorate their front side of shops with most colorful decorations. Many shops light up the shops that gives a colorful appearance. There are some rituals performed for the festival before it concludes with huge fireworks lighting up the night skies. Women put special Mehendi designs on hands and feet and flaunt their jewellery.
What Rituals are Performed During Gangaur?
The ceremonies include putting special clothing on the images of the God & Goddess Gangaur. The women folk of Rajasthan assemble to take turns and dress up the images. Then a colorful procession takes place where the idols are carried around town through several lanes. The final tour happens when they make their way towards the beautiful waters of Lake Pichola. At the Gangaur Ghat, the idols are then transported in special boats for their final immersion.
How To Reach
Udaipur is a famous tourist spot and is well connected through road, train and air from major cities in India. Travelers can hire a taxi to go around in the city of Udaipur.
Air
The Maharana Pratab Airport is situated 22 km away in Dabok, Udaipur. There are several flights connecting Mumbai, Jaipur, Delhi & Kolkatta.
Train
Several trains travel to and from Udaipur Railway Station situated very close to city to major cities including Delhi, Jaipur & Mumbai. The luxurious Palace on Wheels train stops at this famous tourist destination during the festival months. Travel in opulence in fully air conditioned cabins of Palace on Wheels train with interiors give a feel of Royal Rajasthani Culture.
Road
Udaipur has brilliant roadways making travel easy. Buses connect from Udaipur Bus Stand to major cities like Delhi, Chittorgarh, Jaipur, Indore, Kota, Ahmadabad, Mt. Abu, Ajmer, etc. There are regular bus services including A/C Coaches and Deluxe Buses too.
Other related information of Palace on Wheels Rajasthan:
- Palace on Wheels Special Offer
- Cost of Palace on Wheels train
- Departure Dates of Palace on Wheels train
- Facilities of Palace on Wheels train
- History of Palace on Wheels train
- Palace on Wheels Booking
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