Author: Ashok Mathur

Freelance Journalist.
Writes regularly for English daily newspapers.
Is an English Language Teaching Specialist.

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Festivals

Baneshwar Fair – The Maha Kumbh Of Tribals

During the last five days of the month of Magh, Baneshwar Dham, where the three sacred rivers, Som, Mahi, and Jhakad meet, attracts a huge number of tribal’s not only from Rajasthan but also neighbors states such as Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. It is believed that the fair is about 500 years old; located at a distance of about 123 km from Udaipur, 45 km from Dungarpur and 53 km from Banswara and perched on the top of a hill is the highly revered temple of Lord Shiv. Leaving the main road, one has to go Sabla and then reach Baneshwar. The temple is situated near the delta of the rivers Mahi and Som. It was named Baneshwar after the Vagdi Language word ‘Ben’ for Delta and ‘Ishwar’ for Lord.

Baneshwar Fair – The Maha Kumbh Of Tribals
Image Courtesy: Rahul Soni

The beliefs and rituals of the Bhil tribes

Performing rituals for Moksha

The tribals consider Baneshwar, the ‘trisangam’ of the river as the most sacred place for immersing the ashes of their dead as are Kashi, Prayag, Haridwar, Pushkar etc. They believe in doing ‘tarpan’ of the ashes that results in their ‘moksha’. Right from the morning on Purnima, thousands of tribal coming from different directions gather at the ‘sangam’. The ashes of men are wrapped in white cloth while those of women in red color one and then kept in earthen pots. With the help of their ‘guru’ the tribes perform elaborated rituals on the bank of the rivers. Then with their family, they enter the water and begin wailing. They stand in water and pay the last homage to the dead ones who left them during the previous year. After a cleaning bath, they put on fresh clothes and worship gods and goddesses then it is the turn of those pilgrims who do not bring any ashes to have a holy bath, recite mantras and perform rituals.

The legend of the Shivling at Baneshwar Dham

It is time now for the visitors to go to temples. After climbing up a long flight of steps, they reach the Baneshwar Shiv temple. According to a legend related to this temple, once a cow used to go near the Shivlingam and offer her milk to it. It had no milk when it returned home in the evening. Naturally, it made its master very curious to know the reason for all this. One day he followed the cow and seeing it near the Shivlingam got him infuriated. The frightened cow began to run away and in the process, the 20 cm high Lingam was hit by its hind leg and broke into five pieces. Since this then, this ‘Khandit Lingam’ is being worshipped.

Puja is performed twice during the day. Darshan starts at 4:30 am when the ‘Lingam’ is washed with water and ‘kesar’ is offered. In the evening there is bhasma-aarti with five flames. Darshan is open up to 11:00 pm. Devotes can offer flower, fruits, ghee, coconut etc. On this holy spot was built a beautiful temple by Aashkaranji, the Maharawal of Dungarpur in 1453. A Bhil Meena was appointed as the priest of the temple. A big fair began to be held here. And without any consideration of caste and creed, everyone was allowed to worship here. Pilgrims visit the Radha – Krishna’s Hari Mandir, and also the Brahma Mandir, Panchmukhi Mandir, Gayatri Mandir, Shabri Mandir, Raja Bali Temple, Bhagwan Nishkalank Mandir, Ram Jharikha Asharam, Valmiki Mandir, Hanuman Mandir etc.

The happenings at the fair

On the occasion of the big far, the Peethadheeshwar of Sabla who is a descendant of the saint Mavji comes to Baneshwar in a procession in a palanquin with pomp and show covering a distance of about 5 km. Thousands of devotees join the yatra. Also, brought from Maninda Math at Sabla to Baneshwar Dham is the 16 cm silver idol of Mavji on horseback in a palanquin.

Baneshwar Fair – The Maha Kumbh Of Tribals
Image Courtesy: Rahul Soni

First of all, the Mahant takes a dip in the water at Baneshwar Dham. This makes the water holy, it is believed. Then it is time for pilgrims to have a bath. Devotees get a chance to have the ‘darshan’ of the Mahant in Krishna Mandir for five days. The new devotees are initiated and they wear ‘Kanthi’ on the neck. Rasleela is performed for devotees. With great enthusiasm are sung and heard bhajans about the legends associated with Mavji and his teachings. So also, about Mavji and Mehudi who are believed to be Lord Krishna and Meera Bai. A big number of saints and Mahatmas of different sects also put up their camps in the fair for the benefit of their devotees.

The exhibition at Baneshwar

Visitors to the huge fair not only avail this opportunity to perform rites and have ‘darshan’ of temples and saints but also enjoy themselves. They take advantage of the exhibitions about government beneficial schemes of the govt, awareness programs of the health depts. etc. Many of them take part in various games and sports organized by Tribal Area Development agency culture programs, magic shows, and aerobatic shows and swings etc are some other attractions. Shopaholics get a big chance to shop from a big range of articles including plastic items, cosmetic items, bangles, shoes, clothes, artificial jewelry, trinkets, sickle, scythes, axe-heads etc. Also, on sale are weapons such as spears and swords. As archery has a long tradition, there is a big demand for bows and arrows made of bamboo.

Baneshwar Fair – The Maha Kumbh Of Tribals
Image Courtesy: Rahul Soni

Mavji and the history

Baneshwar Dahm has become a sacred place as the great saint Mavji Maharaj did ‘tapsya’ in this region for a long time. He was born at Sabla village in Dungarpur district. He was the son of Keshar Bai and Dalamji. Since his early childhood, people began to revere him due to his saintly nature and miracles. He lefts home at the age of 12 and performed ‘tapasya’ for twelve years in the cave of Sunaiya hills near Sabla. Then he reappeared at Baneshwar and gave ‘darshan’ on Magh Shukla Ekadashi. In his memory is held the Baneshwar fair. Due to his divine deeds, he established himself as a great saint and came to be revered as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. As the scriptures say the ‘rasleela’ of Lord Krishna and the ‘gopis’ at Vrindravan got interrupted. At the request of the ‘gopis’, the Lord promised that ‘ras’ would recommence when he would appear in the form Mavji at Baneshwar.

Mavji wrote several ‘granths’ that include Gyan Rathmala, Guru Shisya Samwad, Prem Tatra, Prem Gita, Shri Bhagwat Mahapurana, Sehaj Gura, Samras Amrit Sagar and Sudanand. All of them are replete with Govind Geets, Krishna Leela and ‘rasleelas’. He also wrote five chopda’s in 776 pages which describe the past, the present and the future. They are written in Devanagri script and the language is a mix of Hindi, Vagadi, and Gujarati. Some of these forecasts have already come true viz Hindus and Muslims would eat together, there would be inter-caste marriage and the low will become high and the high low. Mavji did a lot for social equality at a time when there was much discriminative. He allowed people of all communities to enter temples and do puja and perform ‘rasleela’. He favored widow marriage and he himself married a widow of Patidar Samaj.

In the fair is showcased the tribal culture of the region in its various aspects. One can watch or participate in dances like Gair and Ghumar that are peculiar to the region and games like Gida Dot, that is like hockey and archery. Indian and foreign tourists take the advantage of witnessing the rich folk culture and also love to participate in some activities.

Baneshwar Fair – The Maha Kumbh Of Tribals
Image Courtesy: Rahul Soni
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Places to Visit Travel

Udaipur: Bird Lover’s Paradise!

Udaipur: Bird Lover's Paradise!

Who doesn’t love birds with their multi-hued feathers and different forms of the body flying high in the azure sky, perched on branches of trees, swimming effortlessly on the still water of the lakes or driving into the water in search of their prey? The sight of these beautiful avians, one of God’s most attractive gifts to man, always gladdens one’s mind and soul.

Well-known all over the world is the glorious cultural and historic past of Mewar. The intricate sculpture and fascinating folk traditions of the region are unique. In addition to all this, 24 important bird areas in the states, there are six in Udaipur viz Jaisamand lake and sanctuary Phulwari Ki Naal and Sajjangarh sanctuary Sei Dam, Udaipur lakes and Baghdara crocodile park. There are four more such regions in the neighboring districts namely Kumbhalgarh sanctuary, Sita Mata sanctuary, Mount Abu sanctuary and Serari Dam. Thus, South Rajasthan can boast of ten important bird areas. To all these, two more Todgarh-Raoli and Bassi can be added that is home to a huge variety of water and other kinds of bird. No less than 242 bird species have been sighted in Udaipur region.

Udaipur: Bird Lover's Paradise!
flamingos near menar

Out of them, about 102 species are water birds and the remaining ones belong to the categories that live on earth and trees. About 150 species of migratory birds visit the lakes of Udaipur and neighboring area during the winter season. The district has its own identity as the sight of a large number birds of different species and wild animals can be seen easily. When in the months of October November as winter sets in, the number suddenly goes up.

Udaipurites who are lucky enough to be able to watch a good number of migratory birds in the winter season are often curious to know why the birds leave their country and come all the way to distant India. From the European countries and North Asian that become extremely cold during winter, they fly thousands of km away. At home, on the surface of winter bodies, there is snow, as also on the ground. The result is that the insects and the fishes that the birds feed on, either die or hibernate till the end of the winter season. In the absence of easy availability of food the birds fly long distance and migrate to countries that are warm, where lakes do not freeze and there is ample supply of food. In countries like India at that time summer season is just over and monsoon sets in. The lakes are almost full and there is greenery all around. So, food is available in plenty. Migratory birds live and lay eggs in Europe and Russia during summer, experts tell us. As the days are long they get enough time to hatch their eggs. Food is also available in good quantity, so the chicks grow faster.

Udaipur: Bird Lover's Paradise!
Source: Udaipur Kiran

How these migratory birds passing through narrow passages make their way without being hindered by obstacles?

In the case of animals, when they move forward, they feel that objects that are near them seem to come close to them faster than those which are far. Similarly, birds ensure that the pictures of objects on their both sides are in keeping with their speed and then they feel secure.

To save energy for long flights, migratory birds start accumulating fats in their body months in advance in the summer season. Another interesting thing about such birds is that they fly only during the night and rest in the day as to avoid human disturbances and for safety. They fly continuously without any break. During long journeys, they fly in a V-formation or line. When one feels tired it takes a position at the back and is replaced by one who is fresh. Bar-headed goose is a migratory bird that can fly at the highest level that is 10-12 km from the ground. Flying at such a height where there is little oxygen and temperature is minus fifty degree Celsius it reaches Udaipur and other places in Mewar region and Rajasthan. The amazing thing is that they sleep in the air while flying overseas and oceans. Their brain sleeps while their muscles keep functioning covering a distance about 5000 km at the rate of 500-600 km per day, they reach Udaipur to add to the beauty of the water bodies. The longest journey of 11,000 km from North pole to South pole from the Arctic to Antarctica is undertaken by the bird named Arctic Turn. Out of the about 150 species migrating birds that come to Udaipur every year 170 were spotted in the Bird Fair held in December last year.

Udaipur: Bird Lover's Paradise!
Source: Udaipur Kiran • Bird Watchers gathered to see birds

One can easily sight some common residents birds of Udaipur region like Common Coot (Tikadi), Little Grebe (Chhoti Dubdubi), Painted Stork (Jhanghil), Black-necked Stork (Luharjang, Asian Openbrill (Ghonghil), Woolly-necked Stork (Haji Laglag), Great White Pelican (Safed Hawasil), Black-headed Ibis (Kala Bujja)., Black Ibis (Kala Bujja), Greater Flamingo (Bada Hansawar), Red –wattled Lapwing (Titcahri), Little Cormant (Choota Pawan Kauva), Common Hoopoe (Hudhudid), Short-eared Owl (Chhot Kanna Ullu), Egyptian Vulture (Safed Giddh) and White-browed Fantail (Safed Nachni) in summer can be seen Indian Pitta (Desi Naurang), Rosy Starling (Gulab Mainn) etc. Winter visitors include Bar- headed Gouse (Seenkhpar), Pintail (Neessar), Red-chested Pochard (Chhoti Murgbi) etc.

Udaipur: Bird Lover's Paradise!
Source: Udaipur Kiran

It is perhaps worthwhile for bird lovers to know where bird watching can be done. Built by Picchu Banjara, Pichola the biggest and the most famous lake of the town is one of the places where a large number of birds of various species can be sighted. Babool and other bushes are suitable for resident birds to build nests for breeding after monsoon season. It is fascinating to watch nests of Open Bill Stork during the breeding season. Nest colonies of Egret and Heron species in areas close to the lakes are also a sight worth watching. Fatehsagar built by Maharana Jaisingh and renovated by Maharana Fatehsingh is another huge lake good for bird watching, especially near Rani Road where winter is not very deep and there are trees where birds can build nests. However, the noise of motor boats that disturbs the peace is a negative factor. Connected with Picchola lake is Rangsagar lake built by the erstwhile Maharanas and Swarup Sagar built by Maharana Swami Singh are other spots suitable for watching birds of various species. So also Jal Burz and Kalka Mota Nursery near Doodh Talai. This year early in November about 600 birds of different species such as Schoveller, Common Pochard, Pintail Common Teal Ibis, Common Coot, and Spotted Dove were spotted in Roop Sagar and Badi Lake near Udaipur. Rajsamand that overflowed this time after 8 years also had a good number of birds.

In lakes near Udaipur such as Ghasa, Mavli, Kadla Losing, Nandeshwar, Bhatewar can also be seen birds in large numbers. The lakes near Menar also attract a huge number of birds of several species. Dhand Talab has been a home to over 600 Grey-leg geese that have come from a distance of 6000 km. The special feature of lakes near Menar is that the villagers do not use the lake water for irrigation and do not allow people to pollute it. Groups of young men not only guide the tourists but also provide horses to them. They have put up tents for the tourists to stay in very intelligently they have found a new way of caring morning and at the same time promoting tourism.

Udaipur: Bird Lover's Paradise!
Source: on the high road

Udaipurities can now drive some 25 to 50 km away from the city, have an exciting close view of beautiful birds and spend an enjoyable day.

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Tourist Guides: Promoters of Tourism

Tourist Guides: Promoters of Tourism
Tourist Guides: Promoters of Tourism

In making Udaipur a big tourist destination, retaining its reputation and also in enhancing it several agencies are involved. The tourist department provides full information about the worth visiting places to the tourists. The forest department develops places like wildlife sanctuaries, bird park and biodiversity parks to attract more visitors whereas local bodies such as the Municipal Corporation and Urban Improvement Trusts try to maintain the important spots in and around the town properly. The hospitality industry treats the tourists in a way that they can enjoy their stay thoroughly. However, tourists guides who have an important role of their own in promoting tourism do not generally get the attention they deserve.

Tourist Guides: Promoters of Tourism
Suraj Soni

According to Suraj Soni (Bijoliya), a popular young tourist guide in Udaipur, a good guide can make things come alive and arouse feelings of tourists that no printed books of history etc. can ever do. Live interaction between the guide and his clients has a unique impact on the latter. However, integrity and authenticity of the guide is an important factor in the profession. No wonder Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar (Prince of Udaipur) advises the guides not to try to impress tourists with myths or common exaggeration but stick to facts. To be successful in their work, they should read a lot to keep their knowledge updated. In case they do not know something they should admit it frankly instead of dolling out wrong information that creates a negative impression about the country.

There are mainly four types of certified tourist guides. Green card holders can function in Udaipur and are certified by Govt. of Rajasthan. Red card holders who are certified by the Central Govt. can work in the four zones throughout the country while for yellow card holders the area is the whole of Rajasthan.Tourist Guides: Promoters of Tourism

The City Palace authorities select tourist guides on their own after taking tough tests and interviews, So far 300-350 guides have been certified after rigorous training that includes a thorough knowledge of the heritage, culture etc. They have to be properly dressed and disciplined. Their behavior is closely watched. A large number of security guards are also employed. In this way, the ‘House of Mewar’ supports a large number of families of guides and security guards. To keep the guides updated, workshops and lectures are organized regularly for which specializes in special fields such as history, culture, architecture, and behavioral psychology are invited.

About the traits of different kinds of tourists, Suraj Soni (Bijoliya) says that tourists from France are more interested in natural sites like lakes and want to know when they were dammed and in what way they are beneficial. Quite a few of them admire the floating palaces like Lake Palace, Jag Mandir, and Jag Niwas. Australian tourists are of reserved nature. They shop a lot without much bargaining. Visitors from South India ask a number of questions about history and shop a lot.Bengali tourist is well read and is curious to learn. Sometimes they tell the guides that they did not tell them certain things during their previous visit. They ask their children to listen carefully to the guide. Quite a few tourists from Gujarat like to know about the places where famous films were shot. Some tourists consider Haldighati a place of pilgrimage, kiss the earth and smear their head with the soil. There are others who want to know how Maharana Pratap’s small army was able to face Akbar’s huge forces. Tourists interested in architecture want to know who built the buildings, their style etc. whereas others are curious about how the fine arts like music and paintings flourished through the ages.Impressed by the magnificent paintings, especially the miniature ones, depicting battles, hunting, expeditions festivals etc, several tourists go in for their replicas. This has come as a big support for the dying art of painting in Udaipur. A small number of tourists show interest in spiritual personalities of Mewar like Chatursinghji and Meera Bai.Tourist Guides: Promoters of Tourism

Well mannered, disciplined, knowledgeable and honest tourist guides also contribute to the development of tourism in their own way.

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Festivals

69th Republic Day: Have A Look at What Udaipur Has to Say About Today’s Scenario

69th Republic Day: Have A Look at What Udaipur Has to Say About Today’s Scenario
69th Republic Day: Have A Look at What Udaipur Has to Say About Today’s Scenario

Republic Day, the 69th for the country, is perhaps the best time for stock taking to learn about your achievements and failures. It is worthwhile to know what specialists in areas of school and higher education, medical and healthcare, media, folk culture and social change have to say on this occasion, says a reputed teacher and educationist K.V Jose. Education has been the most widely discussed subject in our country. To do so, there are seminars, meetings, and debates. Several committees, commissions have come out with their findings and recommendations. However, the scenario is not what it should have been.

69th Republic Day: Have A Look at What Udaipur Has to Say About Today’s Scenario
The 69th Republic Day of India • Credits: Fouzia Mirza

The school education, especially in rural areas suffers from serious systematic lacunae. The spread of education in our country quantitively is quite encouraging. There is more than five times increase in primary schools for the age group of 6 to 14 with an enrolment of over 90% eligible children. The number of secondary and senior secondary schools and students has also risen multi-fold. To regulate and monitor education various agencies like National Council of Education Research and Training and State Boards of Education have also been set up. The right to education act gives the right to all children for free basic education. The number of literates has also gone up. However, quality wise we are far behind even some of our as in neighbors, so also in infrastructure. We still have the largest number of illiterates in the world. There is inadequate vocationalization in education. Education is degree oriented and so there is educated unemployment. Significant gender bias in opportunities for education exists. Lack of education opportunities in rural areas can be seen. A govt. commitment to spend at least 6% of GDP on education has never been fulfilled.

In the opinion of Dr. D. M. Mathur, former HOD, Psychiatry, RNT Medical College, Udaipur, the country has witnessed great success in health and medical care like other nations worldwide. We have applied the latest methods for fighting diseases. Indian medical researchers working in their country and some devising those in other countries have been instrumental in the latest equipment and discovering medicines and vaccines to fight against dreaded diseases like cancer, aids and viral infection identified in the last few years.69th Republic Day: Have A Look at What Udaipur Has to Say About Today’s Scenario

Surgeries are now possible without large incisions through laparoscopes, obviating the need for blood transfusions, longer hospitalization and work loss. The joints are replaced with micro-perfection aided by computers and open-heart surgeries even for small children are very common. Twins joined to each other are being successfully separated to live independent lives. In the laboratories the genes carrying specific disease and corrected before the appearance of the problems. Micro-particles called Nano-particles are now available to carry investigative objects and drugs to hitherto inaccessible parts of the body to diagnose and treat the ailments. However, adds Dr. Mathur, all the advances made in other countries have taken a long time to benefit the people of India. Only through the policy of open market and increased number of tie-ups between the advanced countries like UK, USA, Japan, and China, we would be able to get the new technology, medicines, equipment, and vaccines soon after their discovery. Unaffordable cost and delivery system failures keep them restricted to people of metro and big cities and the huge rural folk is deprived of them. All of us have to take necessary steps to make medical facilities available to the rich and the poor alike.

To review the overall picture of success and failure, we have to take into consideration various aspects of physical, mental, socio-economical, psychological, economic and political, says Dr. Gayatri Tiwari, Scientist and National Technical Coordination College of Home Science and MPUAT, Udaipur. While talking of achievements we should take into consideration, the challenges that India had to face at the time of its birth. 69th Republic Day: Have A Look at What Udaipur Has to Say About Today’s ScenarioAlthough we have crossed many milestones in the field of employment, science and technology industry, agriculture etc we still lag behind in the topmost requirements for social up-liftmen viz family wellbeing. We are on the edge of losing our age-old traditions, culture and moral values that are clearly revealed by the ever-increasing graph of broken homes, suicides, crimes against women and children, corruption and the like. It is a bitter truth that we are living in a society where all relations are maintained by a head and not a heart. Those guided by the head believe in logical and profit and loss aspects whereas those who listen to the heart are influenced by affective domain and for the emotions and feelings are important.

In the opinion of Dr. Manju Pandey, co-coordinator, media Seva Mandir, Udaipur, after about seven decades of becoming a republic, we have progressed in several physical aspects. However, much is still to be done in making ourselves strong in thinking freely and frankly. After Independence, due to urbanization, big malls came up and new gadgets were made. There has been good progress but it has been limited only to a few. There is an urgent need to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor, As Abraham Lincoln has said democracy is, for, of and by the people. Everyone in the country has to be treated equally. And this is where our country lags behind. Efforts will have to make on the ground level to empower people and parameters defined for their all-round development.

69th Republic Day: Have A Look at What Udaipur Has to Say About Today’s ScenarioPandey says that after Independence much has been achieved by women in various fields. They have been given opportunities come out of homes and share responsibilities in several areas. However, this applies only to educated women and illiterate laborers are still being ignored. They are not getting adequate payment for their labor and their safety is not being fully insured. All this is due to our mental attitude.

One area in which we have made much progress is hospitality business that has provided employment and opportunity to a huge number of young men and women. Homestay and paying guests houses need more encouragement. Women, who form half of the country’s population, have to be empowered economically socially and politically to enable them to contribute fully to the progress of the nation.

An authority on folk culture Dr. Mahendra Bhanawat says that in pre-Independence days different kinds of folk artists of different communities used to entertain their Yajmaan’s on occasions such as festivals, and celebration of ‘Sanskars’ like marriages to earn their livelihood. Due to changes in these traditions, the artists now find it difficult to survive. In the hour of their need, Devilal Samar, who founded Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandal took up the work of preserving developing and promotion of the folk arts and culture. The research section of the Mandal was strengthened and the artists were contacted and recording photography was done. Soon training camps for artists were organized in Bedla Rao’s palaces in which participated artists from ‘dhanis’ and villages from all over Rajasthan. The family of Nathu of Nagaur who came to attend a camp was kept in Kala Mandal and through the intricacies of Amar Singh Rathore ‘Khayal’ (play). ‘Khayal’ named Mughal Durbar was prepared. The troupe’s presentation of this ‘dhaga putli’ puppet play in the international festival in Rumania won the highest award and made this art world famous.69th Republic Day: Have A Look at What Udaipur Has to Say About Today’s Scenario

Seminars, festivals like folk songs samaroh, ‘lokranjan samaroh’ ‘kathputlhi samaroh’ night long ‘tamasha’ and ‘khayal’ programs etc. were organized to create awareness about these art forms in the public. A folk-art museum was set up, so also a training center. The exhibition section organized exhibition all over the world. The publication department came out with several publications to bring to light the hidden aspects of folk culture. A magazine was also started.

Backed by his deep study and rich experience of folk culture. Bhanawat thought about several issues such as the need of change in form of these arts in the changing conditions and its extent the role of artists themselves in the process of change and the imposition of any change. Bhanawat says that on one hand, he feels satisfied to some extent with his own contribution to the conservation and promotion of folk culture. However, he feels strongly that all out efforts are to be made in time otherwise this rich heritage of the country is likely to be lost forever.

According to Dr. Rakshit Ameta, professor of Chemistry, Rajasthan Vidyapeeth University, Udaipur there have been tremendous advances in the field of higher education in our country in the last seven decades. The number of central universities, state universities, and deemed universities has gone up considerably. So, has the number of colleges and other institutions of higher education. The number of colleges and other institutions of higher education the number of students in general, medical, engineering and technical colleges and other institutions of technology, Indian Institutes of Management, Indian Council for Medical Research, Agriculture Research Institute, Indian Council of Technical Education, Indian Statistical Institute, National Physical Laboratory, National Chemical Laboratory etc. have been opened. Women Education Council has been set up to give technical education to women. University grants commission is the main funding authority for university education. It also frames rules and regulations regarding higher education in the country.69th Republic Day: Have A Look at What Udaipur Has to Say About Today’s Scenario

Ameta is of the opinion that we have had a phenomenal progress as far as quantitative expansion is concerned. However, much more emphasis has to be laid on the quality of education being imparted in our country. For this, the curricula have to revamped especially with a closer interface with industries and business. Education that is keeping with needs of employees is bound to make its products more employable. Priority is to be given more to research that helps in the development of the country.

India has taken big strides but yet we have miles to go.

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Festivals

Celebrate Basant Panchami in Udaipur

Celebrate Basant Panchami in Udaipur
Celebrate Basant Panchami in Udaipur

Celebrated with great religious fervor by Udaipurites, Basant Panchami is the day on which they believe worshiping goddess Saraswati would fulfill their desires. They consider her to be the goddess of all creative arts, knowledge, and wisdom. They also believe that she descended on the earth to make it a place full of joy with her power of speech and soothing music. All this makes her extremely venerable for scholars, writers, poets, musicians, and students of different arts. Her vehicle swan signifies good thoughts and pure knowledge. Her white clothes symbolize purity and chastity.

Celebrate Basant Panchami in Udaipur
Source: ayushdevapura

Since ancient times, festivals in our country have been linked with the change of seasons. There are six seasons viz Sharad, Hemant, Shishir, Grishma, Varsha, and Basant. Basant is considered to be the King of Seasons. It is a transitory period between summer and winter. The word, Basant shows that it is just the end of winter- ‘bas’ (just) and ‘ant’ (end). The weather is pleasant and one has a sense of relief after the severe winter. No wonder Lord Krishna says in Gita that among seasons. He is like Basant.

According to Sanskrit scholar, Vasudev Shastri, Basant Panchami has its origin right in the time when the universe was created and nothing existed. Lord Brahma went to Lord Vishnu and they had a long discussion. There was perfect silence everywhere. Brahma took out water from his ‘kamandal’ and sprinkled it all around Him. There were vibrations everywhere and suddenly appeared Saraswati who had miraculous powers. She had a ‘Veena’, and a book in her hands. She bowed before the two Lords. On instructions from Brahma, she made the atmosphere musical and joyous by playing on the ‘Veena’. To commemorate this event, Basant Panchami is celebrated with great enthusiasm not only in India but also in some other countries such as Nepal, Jawa, and Japan. Another legend says that right at the beginning of the creation of the universe the primordial power had divided itself into five parts as desired by the Supreme Lord- Radha, Padma, Savitri, and Saraswati. It is also believed that on this day Kamdev shot arrows at Lord Shiv to disturb Him in His ‘Samadhi’. Shiv was so infuriated that the opened His third eye and burnt Kamdev to ashes. It is also said that on this day Basant ‘raga’ came out of Lord Shiva’s mouth.

According to another Sanskrit scholar, Devendra Dave scriptures tell us that when Lord Ram was wandering in Dandkaranya forest in search of Sita, he met His great devotee Shabri who fed Him with berries that she first tasted herself and then gave to her Master. This incident took place on Basant Panchami.

According to the historian, Dr. Girish Mathur, Basant Panchami also reminds of a historical event about Prithviraj Chauhan who had defeated Mohammad Gauri 16 times but did not kill him. In the 17th battle between them, Chauhan was defeated, taken to Afghanistan as a prisoner and blinded. But before giving a life sentence, Gauri wanted to see how Chauhan used his Shabdban that was believed to hit the spot from which the sound originated. Through a couplet, poet  Chandrabardai gave a hint to Chauhan where Gauri was and Chauhan hit the target killing his foe. Then Chauhan and Chandrabardai killed one another.

According to historians, in earlier times, there were not many occasions for the entertainment of the public. The celebration of Basant Panchami started in the Maurya period and it became a popular festival at the time of the Guptas. It is celebrated in the form of big fairs in several places, especially north India in which farmers participate with great fervor.

Celebrate Basant Panchami in Udaipur
Source: NewIndianExpress

According to historian Rajendra Nath Purohit, Basant Panchami had an important place in the calendar of Mewar rulers. On this day the Maharana and his courtiers used to wear yellow clothes. A ‘durbar’ was held in the Rajmahal in which court poets recited poems on the Basant season before the Maharana. A programme of elephant fight was also organized.

Great Hindi poets like Suryakant Nirala say that at this time of the year the whole universe is in a joyous mood. The sweet-smelling flowers, the soothing breeze, the dancing peacocks, the cooing cuckoos, the verdant hills, the quietly flowing rivers, the clear sky and the soft rays of the sun make the environment highly enjoyable.

According to Vaidya Sabhalal Audichya, Basant is called Madhumas, the season of honey-like sweetness. The energy flows upwards in all the vegetation. Human beings are filled with energy and enthusiasm. The nights are short and the days longer. The sun shines more brightly. Astrologers, Dr. MS Alakhnanda,  say that the sun takes the direction of the north and so this period is called the period of gods. No wonder Basant Panchami is thus one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar when any ceremony can be performed. It is an ‘abhuja mahurat’ and one has no need to consult an astrologer for programmes such as marriage, ring ceremony, starting the construction of new houses, launching of a new business, ‘grihpravesh’ (housewarming) or ‘namkaran’ (giving names).

Basant Panchami would be celebrated with great enthusiasm in several temples spread all over the town. At the famous Jagdish Mandir, the festival would begin at 5.30 with ‘panchamrit snan’ and the Lord would wear a yellow dress, yellow ‘dupattas’, and yellow crown. During Rajbhog Aarti also, he would have a yellow robe and offered yellow flowers. The main gate and the whole temple would be decked with yellow flowers. In ‘bhog’ would be offered yellow colored rice. After Rajbhog, people would play with ‘abeer’ and ‘gulal’.

The idol of Shrinathji at the Shrinath Temple at Raoji ka Hata in Udaipur would wear white clothes throughout this month. The temple gets ‘abeer’ of three colors- red, pink and white from the main temple at Nathdwara and on Basant Panchami, it is sprinkled on the Lord’s dress and curtains. The singing of Basant songs begins on this day and continues till Falgun Ekadashi. The ‘kirtan’ starts with the singing of Ashtapadi composed by the famous poet Jaidev.

In the Asthal Mandir at Surajpole, the idols would be clad in yellow clothes. At about eight in the morning, there would be Mangal Aarti followed by Shringar Aarti. Ears of wheat plants, mustard flowers, and mango leaves would be offered. Rajbhog would include Kesaria Bhath. Basanti Bhajans would be sung by Asthal Mahila Bhakt Mandli.

Basant Panchami would be celebrated in a special way at the Baiji Raj Ka Kund Mandir, Delhi Gate where the idol would be draped in yellow clothes. The singing of Phag songs would also start. Several other temples such as Radhavallabh Mandir and Meetharamji Mandir would celebrate the festival in several fascinating ways.

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Festivals

The Beautiful Festival of Makarvilakku in Udaipur

The Beautiful Festival of Makarvilakku in Udaipur

Makarvilakku Mahotsav

Lake City has a rainbow-like multi-colored horizon due to the rich contribution from different communities. One such community is Keralite Hindus, who celebrate their festivals throughout the year in a highly fascinating manner. However, the most attractive of them is the two-day long Makarvilakku festival that falls on 13th and 14th January. It coincides with three other festivals viz., Makar Sankranti by Hindus, Lohadi by Sikhs and Lal Loi by Sindhis. No wonder Lake City vibrates with festive fervor in mid-January.The Beautiful Festival of Makarvilakku in Udaipur

Makarvilakku festival is related to Lord Ayyappa and his temple in Sabarimala. As the interesting story goes, Lord Shiva was very pleased with Bhasmasura’s worship and asked him to get any boon of his choice. The latter asked for the ability to burn to ashes anything on which he placed his hands. No sooner had the Lord granted him the boon Bhasmasur ran after the Lord threatening to test the boon on him.The Beautiful Festival of Makarvilakku in Udaipur

Lord Shiva sought help from Lord Vishnu and hid in a peepal tree as Bhasamsur ran here and then searching for him. Aware of the happenings, Lord Vishnu decided to take the form of enchantress Mohini and try to trap the demon. When Bhasmasur saw Mohini, he was bewitched by her beauty and tried earnestly to court her. Mohini put a condition that he must dance with her. Mesmerized by her beauty, Bhasmasur agreed and began to dance. During the course of dancing, he put his hand on his head as did Mohini on hers. The boon worked and Bhasmasur was reduced to ashes. Lord Vishnu disclosed everything to Shiva who asked if he could have a glimpse of Mohini. When Vishnu appeared in the form of Mohini, the Shiva united with her. The two gods thus became Harihara Murthi. From this union was born Lord Sree Dharma Sastha, a synonym of Lord Ayyappa who took this ‘avatar’ to annihilate Mahishi, the demon.

The newborn, left in the forest was adopted by the childless Raja Pandalam who had come hunting at the spot where the child was left. Named Ayyappa, he grew up as the Raj Kumar. Later on, the Rani conceived and gave birth to a son. However, the king wanted Ayyappa to become the king. In connivance with the minister, the queen sent him to the forest to bring leopard milk to cure her pretended illness. To everyone’s surprise and horror, Ayyappa brought home not just the milk but a whole flock of leopards in case the milk was not adequate. The queen realized her mistake and apologized. Having completed his mission of killing Mahishi, Ayyappa returned to the forest and requested the king to build a temple for him at the place where the arrow shot by him fell. The arrow fell at Sabarimala and a temple was erected there. Ever since believers go on pilgrimage to Sabarimala.

The peak on the high ranges of the Western Ghats in Pathana Mithitta district of Kerala, where the temple of Ayyappa stands is known as Sabarimala. Ayyappa is the presiding deity at Sabarimala. According to Valmiki Ramayana, when wandering in search of Sita, Rama reached this hill he was greeted by Shabiri who lovingly offered fruits to him, each fruit after tasting it herself.

Sabarimala is considered to be the most sacred temple of Ayyappa. The pilgrimage to this temple located in dense forest is very refreshing for body, mind, and soul. Pilgrims have to follow strict discipline for a long period to be eligible for ‘darshan’ in this temple. After a refreshing bath in Pamba River, they set on barefoot walk on a 5 km long hill path. There are some other temples of Ayyappa in Kerala. All the idols of the Lord taken by the devotees wherever they went are from this state. The one brought to Udaipur was kept in the temple in the premises of RSMM but now it has been shifted to the new temple in Shobhagpura. All the rituals in the temple are performed on the lines of those in Sabarimala.

The two- day grand festival of Makarvilakku has been celebrated on Makar Sankranti with great enthusiasm with the fall cooperation of the devotees for over three decades. Elaborate rituals start a day before Makar Sankranti and the temple decorated attractively. In the morning are performed rituals such as ‘abhishek’, Nada Thurakal, Ganpati Homam and Usha and Navaham Pooja. In the evening is there is the annual holy outing of Lord Ayyappa that starts from the temple in New Jyoti Nagar, Shobhagpura and wends its way through CPS school road, Bansi Pan Chouraha, Court Chouraha, Delhi Gate, Shastri Circle, Ashok Nagar, Ayad Puliya, 100 feet road and returns to the temple. 

The grand procession is an eagerly awaited event for Udaipurites. It is led by Lord Ayyappa clad in yellow robes riding an elephant. The ‘rath’ is decked with flowers, garland, and flags. It is followed by men and women attired in traditional South Indian dresses. In front walk children holding flags, men carrying colored umbrellas were dancing. Woman with flowers coconuts in ‘thalis’ welcomes the Lord.  Artists who come from Kerala are there playing on typical south Indian musical instrument. The fascinating procession is watched with great attention and reverence by passersby. The first day’s program concludes with scintillating fireworks at the temple and some more rituals.The Beautiful Festival of Makarvilakku in Udaipur

On the Makar Sankranti day, elaborate rituals like Poojas, Homas, and singing are performed throughout the day. A 35 member troupe of artists from Kerala is a special attraction of this year’s celebration.

The Beautiful Festival of Makarvilakku in Udaipur The Beautiful Festival of Makarvilakku in Udaipur The Beautiful Festival of Makarvilakku in Udaipur The Beautiful Festival of Makarvilakku in Udaipur The Beautiful Festival of Makarvilakku in Udaipur Photos by: Siddharth Nagar

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Festivals

Know About the Festival of Kites, Makar Sankranti in Lake City

himadri pachori

In India, it is rightly said, there are Saat Din Aur Nau Tauhar (seven days and nine festivals). Udaipur, a happening place, is no exception. Makar Sankranti (Also known as Uttarayan) is a big festival in Lake City. According to astrologists, while rotating the sun enters different ‘rashis’ on Makar Sankranti, it leaves Dhanu Rashi and enters Makar Rashi. That is why it is called Makar Sankranti. The winter begins to become less severe. There are other reasons for this celebration.

himadri pachori
Photo by: himadri pachori

It is believed that on this day Lord Vishnu killed all the demons and the battle between the gods and demons ended. During Mahabharat, Bhishma Pitamah decided to leave his body. This was the day on which river Ganga came down on the earth. The new harvest is offered to the gods. Lord Surya himself went to his son Shani’s house. There is a tension between the two. To escape the ill effects we are advised to bathe in holy waters, perform religious rites give alms.

It is interesting to learn that while rotating on its axis, the earth lags behind every year so Makar Sankranti is shifted by one day in 80 years. According to an encyclopedia, it used to come on Christmas day 1700 years ago. It fell on 12th January when Vivekanand was born, during Akbar’s reign it came on 10th January.

People visit their relatives and friends and share special dishes such as porridge made with the new crop of grain and milk. The mood is one of merriment. Cattle are fed with green grass as part of charity and alms are given to beggars who gather in large numbers not only outside temples but also move around in different localities of the city.

The temples and the town are thronged with devotees after an early bath in water bodies like Pichola, they go to temples with offerings. In Jagdish Mandir, there is ‘Panchamrit Snan’ in the morning. The idol is dressed in velvet clothes. The Lord is offered ‘Kichdi’, ‘Halwa’, ‘Kesaria Bhat’, etc. Bhajans are sung. In Srinathji Ki Haveli, the idol is clad in gorgeous attire. The Lord is offered a bull and play items. Recipes made with ‘til’ are offered to the Lord in Asthal Mandir.

In streets and open places, children and even some elderly are seen playing ‘Satolia’ and ‘Mardari’. But these traditional games are being gradually replaced by cricket.

Kite flying in Udaipur used to be limited to Nirmala Ekadashi, but now it has become very popular also on Makar Sankranti. Maybe it is so due to the influence of a large number of Gujaratis who have settled in Lake City. Due to this craze over 15,000 kites are procured every year. The kites liked most by children are those of Motu Patlu, Spiderman, Tom and Jerry, Mickey Mouse, Chhota Bheem, Pogo, and Bahubali. Also popular are kites of film stars such as Deepika Padukone, Anushka Sharma, and Salman Khan. So also those of political leaders like Narendra Modi and Rahul Gandhi. For those who do not like plastic kites, the ones made with cloth are also on offer.

Makar Sankranti that has become a big festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Lake City.

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Festivals

Celebrations of Lohadi and Lal Loi in Udaipur

LOHADI AND LAL LOI IN UDAIPUR
Source: Udaipurtimes.com

Lake City has had rich and varied cultural and religious traditions. After their coming to Udaipur the Sikh community contributed to them in its own way. The celebration of Lohadi is an important event in the Sikh calendar.

According to traditional belief, Lohadi falls towards the end of the month of Pausha, generally a day before Makar Sankranti. At this time the season begins to get warmer and the time for harvesting comes closer. The festival heralds the advent of Basant season on Lohadi, people have a bath in holy rivers and lakes and give different things in charity. They visit Gurudwaras to pray.

The name Lohadi originally came from a combination of two word ‘til’ and ‘gud’ –Tillodi, Later on, it became Lohadi. Due to the transition of the sun in Makar Rashi, the season changes and in turn one becomes more energetic and there is a feeling of joy that leads to celebration.

LOHADI AND LAL LOI IN UDAIPUR
Source: Udaipurtimes.com

According to a Punjabi folk tale, there lived a dacoit Dulle Bhatti, who used to rob travelers but he also helped in the marriage of girls. Bhatti became a hero. His name is mentioned in the songs that boys and girls sing near the Lohadi fire. In Sikh families, Lohadi is very important for the newly-wed couples. Dressed gorgeously, they worship the Lohadi fire and seek the blessings of their family and elders. On this day, the newly born child sits in the lap of his mother and members of the family give him gifts and bless him.

At night the mother and the child go and worship the sacred fire of Lohadi. After the worship of Lohadi, ‘Prasad’ in the form of groundnut, ‘gajak’, ‘rewaris’ etc is distributed. Gifts are sent to newly-wed daughters-in-law by her parents. There are ‘Shabad Kirtans’ in Gurudwaras. Nagar Kirtan procession that starts from Gurudwaras passes through different main roads of the town.

LOHADI AND LAL LOI IN UDAIPUR
Source: Udaipurtimes.com

The Sindhi communities of Udaipur also celebrate Lal Loi with great enthusiasm. At several places in different parts of the city, Lal Loi made with wood and cow dung is lit and ‘puja’ is performed with great reverence. People go round the fire singing “Kanhaiya Lori Lal Lori, Buchida Lori Lal”. They greet others on this occasion. At some places, Sukhmani path and Satsang is also held.

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Festivals News

Shilpgram Utsav: An Alluring Summation of Indian Handicrafts Ends with a Promise to Come Next Year

Shilpgram Utsav In Udaipur
Shilpgram Utsav In Udaipur

Shilpgram Utsav In Udaipur • December 21 to 30 December 2017

All roads led to Shilpgram, craftsmen’s village, a huge ethnographical museum that comprises over 31 rural dwellings from the four-member Western States of India viz Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Rajasthan, re-erected in 70 acres of picturesque countryside amongst the foothills of the Aravalli range, just 5 km west of Udaipur. The ten-day long Shilpgram Utsav in which 600 folk artist from 18 states and 400 artisans participate was inaugurated on Dec. 21st by Rajasthan Governor Kalyan Singh.

According to Mohd.Furqan Khan Director West Zone Cultural Centre Udaipur, the annual festival was organized with the aim of displaying the handicrafts of craftsmen from all over the country and marketing their products directly without any middlemen.The Shilpgram Utsav was staged with the cooperation and contribution of the seven zonal cultural centers, the ministry of Culture Govt. of India, Development Commissioner Handicrafts New Delhi, Development Commission Handlooms, New Delhi and National Wool development Board New Delhi and in it over 1000 folk artists participated.Shilpgram Utsav In Udaipur

A new feature introduced this year in the Utsav was the Kamal Kothari Memorial (Life Time Achievement) Lok Kala Award. Dr. Kamal Kothari was born in Jodhpur and educated in Udaipur, devoted his whole life to the preservation of Rajasthan’s folk arts, folk music, and folk music instruments, research in folk arts and their development collection of folk songs and research in all these areas. With Indian’s one of the greatest story writers are Vijaidan Detha he launched Prerna Magazine with the aim of collections, recordings and making a musical notation of folk songs. He worked for Rajasthan Sangeet Natak Academy. It was due to him that Langa Mangniiyar musicians became famous all over the world. He was honored with Padma Shree and Padma Bhushan Awards. He was given Nehru Fellowship for the collection of Rajasthani Literature, folk songs, folk tales etc. The Govt. of Rajasthan honored him with Rajasthan Ratna in 1989 Columbia University, made a documentary named ‘Kamal Da’.Shilpgram Utsav In Udaipur

This year’s Kothari Life Time Achievement Award worth 2.51 Lac was given by Rajasthan Governor on 21st December to folk artist Bansi Lal Khiladi of Chvee village of Degana in Mansaur district, who has acted as Raja in folk plays. He has been a Mand singer and Ramleela player. Looking to his proficiency in Kuchamani Khayal style, his guru Nath Dasji made him the leader of the troupe. He has given thousands of presentations organized by different places. He has been honored by Rajasthan Sangeet Academy and Sangeet Natak Academy, New Delhi. His presentations on the first three days of Shilpgram Utsav were greatly appreciated by the audience.Shilpgram Utsav In Udaipur

One of the main attractions of the Utsav this year was the fusion of three kinds of styles, out of which the fusion of two classical and one semi-classical style was presented in place of that mixings of one ‘raga’ and ‘tal’ of two different styles. In this special presentation were added Lavni of Maharashtra, Gotipua of Orissa and classical Kathak. In this Lavni exhibited classical element with folk element while Gotipua was a fascination of classical elements that was mesmerizing. Kathak was a mix of beautiful step work and facial expressions. There was a similarity of musical instruments; the three styles produced a highly enjoyable effect.

Shilpgram Utsav In Udaipur
Performances in the Shilpgram Utsav In Udaipur

The exhibition of wood statues prepared by artists from different parts of the country during a wood sculpture workshop organized earlier turned out to be another big attraction. Also on display in the Darpan hall were different paintings by well-known painters from all over the country painted in a workshop organized by the Centre from time to time.

For the first time in Utsav were on display the different characters such as Devi Amba, Raee, Budiya, Banjara, Chor-police, Bhiyawa of Gavari; made of sand. Gavari is a folk festival of the Bhil caste of Mewar that is min. Of dance, music, and actions and celebrated enthusiastically in the month of Shrawan.Shilpgram Utsav In Udaipur

Visitors got an exciting opportunity to showcase their talent in the ‘Hiwda Ki Hook’ programme when every afternoon they sang, danced and related their interesting experiences before a big audience. They were also able to win prizes in the Sanskritik Quiz.

For their own use and giving gifts, visitors were seen busy buying different handicrafts products from Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Delhi, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Jammu and Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Uttrakhand, Bengal, Goa etc.Shilpgram Utsav In Udaipur

The crowds swelled during the last few days as they were able to get products they liked at a much lower price. Young and old were seen riding camels and horses with the huge variety of cuisine foodies had a whale of a time. A large number of tourists, both inland and foreign, also enjoyed themselves immensely.Shilpgram Utsav In Udaipur

With better marketing, this big Mela can easily become an even bigger national level Mela that would also boost tourism.

Photo Credits: Dimpy Chundawat & Fouzia Mirza

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Events

Must Read: The Third Edition of the Udaipur Bird Festival 2017

Source: devendra shrimali and udaipurbirdfestival.com

All over the world, Udaipur is famous for its lustrous lakes, verdant hills, national parks, sanctuaries, forts, royal palaces, ‘havelis’ and temples. A lesser known feature is its varied wildlife. Udaipur and its neighborhood are home to a huge variety of avian species.

Third Edition of the Udaipur Bird Festival 2017
Source: udaipurbirdfestival.com

Organized with the aim of creating public awareness about the need for protection of wildlife and at the same time promoting tourism is the city, the three-day long Udaipur Bird festival opened with a bang on Dec 23rd. The third edition of the annual event began with the opening of the Golden Park by Home Minister Gulab Chand Kataria.  Located on the bank of Lake Pichola, the park is named Golden Park as at the sunset the reflection of sun rays in the water turns everything golden. The spot adds another beautiful sunset point in the city to such places at Sajjangarh, Fatehsagar, and Karni Mata Mandir. This theme-based park is to have yellow flowers and plants.

The park being developed with a grant of 46 lacs by UIT Udaipur in an area of about two hectares is to have several attractions for visitors like safe Selfie points, ‘Tabla’ shaped ‘Muddas’ to sit on, three beautiful chattris, walking track, adventure point, cafeteria and a portion with dense forest. There would be a herbal park with a variety of about 25 varieties of herbs. Visitors and bird lovers would be delighted to watch about 150 species of resident and migratory birds. In the next phase dummies of animals, especially of those that are extinct or in great danger are also to be put up so as to give the young generation an idea of an evolution of the animal world. Near Kamal Talai, would be demonstrated how panthers eat, drink, rest and hunt. Three rooms are also to be built.

On the first day of the fair, began a photography and stamp exhibition on birds in the Information Centre.

Third Edition of the Udaipur Bird Festival 2017
Source: udaipurbirdfestival.com

On display is the treasure of knowledge about the daily routine, migration etc of birds in the form of stamps and paintings in the big gallery. There are 126 photographs of about 120 bird species taken by 40 photographers. Also, on display are color artistic photographs of terrestrial and water birds both residents and migratory birds of countries such as Mongolia, Siberia, and of European countries. Photographs show flying owls, geese, myna sitting on cows, Saras, flying cranes; a peacock sitting with the background of rising moon, ‘baaz’ hunting its prey, flamingo searching food in water etc. are some of the big attractions. Being highly appreciated are over 5000 stamps out of 4 lac collected by Pushpa Khamesra of Udaipur.

These range from the ones issued between 1871 and 2017. Also, the lively photographs of the life cycle of four butterflies by bird expert Mukesh Panwar of Dungarpur and Neha Manohar of Udaipur.

Third Edition of the Udaipur Bird Festival 2017
Source: udaipurbirdfestival.com

In the seminar of Udaipur Bird festival on the second day, the participants who are bird experts from India and abroad were on their opinion that sincere and concerted efforts were needed for the protection of birds.

They presented detailed and authentic information about endangered birds species and the condition of wetlands in the world. Asad Rehmani, former Director, Bombay Natural History Society talked about specialties of incredible birds of India. He said that the biodiversity of India was the best in the world. Mukhya Vanjeev Pratipalak, G.V Reddy talked about the ecosystem services of birds and said that if we can save the environment, there would be no need to filter water. He talked about keeping water unpolluted through natural techniques. Bird specialist K.P.S Gopi Sachdev talked about 15 species of cranes that he said cranes were two hundred fifty million years old. He expressed deep concern about the fast declining number of species in Asia.

The living pictures of the business of birds in the country by Rajat Bhargava of BNHS shocked the audience. A detailed presentation of the bird festival was also made. According to Manoj Kulshresta, state coordinator Rajasthan Water Birds Census Programme, out of 11,000 species of birds in the world, 1400 were found in India. He said that one Bargular bird eats 3 insects in one minute and 18 species of this bird come to Udaipur that eat up 15000 insects in a dip. If we can save this one species we would not need much pesticides.

Third Edition of the Udaipur Bird Festival 2017
Source: udaipurbirdfestival.com

Bird Race that has been introduced for the first time turned out to be a big attraction. Bird watchers from Udaipur and other places participated in it enthusiastically and tried to watch birds from a distance without disturbing them. The first prize was won by team King Vulture led by Pradeep Sukhwas that spotted 170 bird species. Led by Pratap Singh Chundawat the hornbill team saw 113 species. 160 species were found by Indian Pitta Team led by Vinai Dave. Falcon Team that was led by Anil Rodgers spotted 132 species. Team Garud led by Shailendra Tiwari found 147 species while 150 species were spotted by Raptor Team led by S. Sardania.

The valedictory function was held on Dec 25, when the ‘experience of field visited’ were presented. Also, emphasized was the need for protecting wetlands. Bird photographers were advised to shoot birds in their natural habitat without disturbing them. Prizes were given away to winners of various competitions.