Category: Festivals

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Festivals

Holi Celebrations in Udaipur

The soft footfalls of Holi festivals can be heard weeks before the grand fiesta is celebrated with great gusto in Lake City. A couple of days in advance on the occasion of Amalka Ekadsh, rural folk from neighboring areas of Udaipur flock to the religious and historic place Gangoudhara (Gangukund) near the Chhatris, the cremations ground of the royal families of Mewar in Udaipur. The ancient ‘Kund’ is believed to have the presence of the river Ganga. In fact, people start gathering here days in advance. There is a big crowd of devotees at the Rajrajeshwar Shiv Mandir to perform rituals. Young and old are seen enjoying themselves on Chakri ‘jhulas’, eating ‘Chat pakodi’ and the like. They go on a shopping spree as there is a huge variety of items including cosmetics, bangles, and domestic ware on sale in this traditional fair. A special feature of this fair (mela) is the availability of earthen ‘matkas’ that Udaipurites in large numbers buy for their cool water supply in summer. It is also popular called ‘matka mela’ fair where pot makers from outside Udaipur begin to reach weeks in advance.

Source: UdaipurTimes.com

Udaipur markets start buzzing with activity. For the last couple of years, herbal ‘gulal’’ is having good demand and a fort night the Forest dept. has created a record by selling about 1100 kilos of this items. It is prepared in neighboring tribal areas of Udaipur such as Thamla Ber Devla of Kotda region Dang, Malviya-Merpor, Kodiyat and Chukdia of Udaipur and Jorma of Gogunda with a target of about 50 quintals. The income goes to the Van Suraksha and Prabhand Samiti. Mainly four kinds of ‘gulal’ is made from different material like roses, ‘amaltash’, ‘chukandar’. Tribal women go out in the jungle everyday to collect flowers and their juice is extracted. And after adding it to a rarest flower it is dried again. This material is then ground till they take the form of fine powder. Attractively packed in 200 and 250 gram packets the material is sent to the market. It is in big demand not only in outside places such as Delhi, Mumbai and Gujarat. Herbal ‘gula’ is proving very popular with its several advantages. It is eco friendly and does not hurt the skin or the eyes. The clothes are not stained. Its sweet smell and natural colors are added attractions. It has also become a source of income for tribal women who are becoming better aware of protection of forests but a big order has also been received from Australia.

Source: india.com
Holi celebration at City Palace Udaipur

Children and boys can be seen buying different kinds of ‘pitchkaris’ in markets, especially Surajpole, Delhigate and Bapu Bazar. This year also, a big favourite ‘ankwali pichkari’, that has the capacity of 1 to 2 liters of water and can be hung from the waist. So are gun and pump shaped ones. On sale are ones with stickers of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, as also those of cartoon characters like Doromon. With these are being bought spray color, capsule color, tube color and ‘gulal’. The prices have gone up this year due to GST.
With the beginning of Holastak a week before Holi, special celebration of Fagoutware, started attracting devotees to the temples of Udaipur. During these eight days that are of special significance for Vaishnavas of Pustimagiya Vaishnavas, the devotes to the temples of religious fervour. Devotees of Udaipur and Gujarat come to the Shrinath Mandir Nathdwara, in large number. There is a lot of rarely devotees in the form of different gods and goddesses dance before the Lord. On this occasion are sung ‘garis’ that are dialogues between the lord and the ‘gopis’. Devotees have the ‘darshan’ of ‘lilas’ of Kamdeo for forty days when he tries to overpower the Lord in various ways. However, two days after Holi, Kamdeo accept his defeat.
Jagdish Mandir is also drawing a large number of devotees who participate enthusiastically in ‘bhajan’ singing and other programmes. According to an old tradition, thousands of villagers of Pherapheri do not work on Ekadash and visit this temple to worship the Lord. In Kalyan Shaktipeeth Udaipur , ‘Maha-aarti’ is performed after decorations the idol with ‘Chandan gulal’ of different colors.
In the main streets of the city can be seen persons of Vagaria community from Marwar and Mewar singing on the beat of the ‘chang’ and asking for ‘shagun’ money.
The whole city begins to vibrate with joyous festive vibes. Parties of singers from Nathdwara Srinath Mandir come to Udaipur to sing ‘rasia’ songs. To sing songs composed by the great ‘bhakti’ poet Ras Khan, singers from Brij also come to Udaipur.

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Festivals

Mahashivratri In Udaipur

For people in Mewar, Shivratri that was celebrated on Feb 13 has special importance as they and the rulers of Mewar have great reverence for Shaivism. All through the years, the Mewar & Maharanas have regarded Eklingnathji as the master and they just as ministers who carried out the Lord’s orders.

According to scriptures, Mahashivratri has a long history. During Sagar Manthan, churning of the ocean, by the gods and the demons, there emerged a pitcher full of poison that was so strong that it could destroy the whole universe. All of them were so frightened that for protection they went to Lord Shiv. the kind Lord agreed to drink the deadly poison and kept it in his throat that turned blue. Because of this miracle, Shiv is called Neelkanth. To commemorate this event, Mahashivratri is celebrated with great fervor.

On Mahashivratri, so important was the worship of Eklingnathji at Kailashpuri that the Maharana himself used to go there in a procession for Darshan. He offered five gold “Mohars” and rupees fifty to the Lord. After spending some time in the temple, he would go to the nearby places on the bank of Indra Sarovar for rest and listen to Shivratri Katha. At midnight he returned to the temple for worshiping and making offerings. As it was a day for fasting, he took only fruits. He would return to his place, after the mid-day puja. Sometimes, on this occasion, the Maharani would accompany him to Eklingnathji Mandir and present a dress to the Lord. The Maharana and his consort would attend two ‘pujas’, have darshan and make offerings. Mahashivratri was kind of a public festival on which the common man also observed fast and took part in worship.

Courtesy: Yash Sharma

A day before Mahashivratri, a grand procession was taken out that passed through the main roads of the city. It was led by elephants and horses. There were tableaux of the twelve Jyotirlinga’s on bullock carts. So also, those of Shiv Barat, Om Banna, Kallaji Bauji, Eklingnathji, Bharatmata, Chandra Shekar Azad and Subhash Chandra Bose. The Bahurupias and acrobatic feats were some of the other attractions.

On Shivratri, Feb 13th, a large number of devotees went to Eklingnathji and among them were those who walked all the way several ‘anusthan’, rituals, were performed in the famous Eklingnathji Mandir on Udaipur Nathdwara road. The special ‘puja’ was started at 10 pm that continued for 4 ‘praharas’ till 12:00. In each ‘prahara’ there were 13 ‘rudra-abhisheks’ that is 52 in all. In each ‘abhishek’, 9.25 kilo of milk, ghee, sugar, and honey was being special ‘Shringar’ was done. All through the period, the band of the royal palace was in attendance playing lilting tunes. Devotees were able to have ‘darshan’ till 11:30 am. Then the regular ‘trikal puja’ started. A special police force was deployed in the area for three days and special buses were run for the devotees.

Thronged by devotees on this auspicious occasion was the famous Mahakaleshwar Mandir on Rani Road, the biggest Shiv temple in the city. It was decked with flowers and special lights. With the recitation of Vedic ‘mantras’, the ‘sahestra abhishek’ was done by Brahmins. There was ‘mangala aarti’, ‘madhyan aarti’ and special ‘shringar puja’ and ‘mahaarti’ was performed in the evening. All through the four ‘paharas’ special rituals were performed.

Mahashivratri In Udaipur
Courtesy: Gajendra Kumawat
Mahakaleshwar Mandir

Highly revered is the Mahakaleshwar Mandir as it is believed to be as old that of Eklingnathji temple at Kailashpuri. Another unique thing about it is that the idol is ‘Sayambhu’ that is it appeared on its own and was not brought from or made anywhere. So, it is considered to be highly auspicious. The Lord gives ‘darshan’ in different forms at different times of the day. In the morning during ‘mangla darshan’ the idol in its child form is white. It takes on the form of a teenager person with dark colour at noon and that of an old man in the evening. Devotees near Picchola lake worshipped the black stone idol of Shiv with three ‘netras’ at the Gadia Devra Mandir that often gets flooded during monsoon and people have darshan of the idol reflected in a mirror. The not so old idol of the Lord built of black stone in Badleshwar Mahadev Mandir located at Dhan Mandir near Delhi. It gets its name from the huge ‘Bad’ tree that stands in front of it. Also crowded was the ancient Shiv Mandir Gangodhara ‘talab’ near the cremation ground of the Rajputs in the Ahad area. Other Shiv Mandirs in the town such is Bheem Parmeshwar in Chandpole and Patelshwar also attracted a big number of devotees. At Hanuman Shiv Mandir in Ashok Nagar ‘prasad’ in form of ‘segari pakode’, kesar milk and fruits were distributed.

The Shiv Idol in the famous Ubeshwar Mahadev Mandir located behind Sajjangarh also attracted a large number of devotees. It is said that once when Maharana Pratap was worshipping there, the Mughal army reached the palace suddenly the ‘lingam’ burst, a huge flock of bees came out of it and drove the enemy away. Built by Mata Devkunwar, mother of Maharana Sangramsingh Second, Baijnath Mahadev Mandir in village Sisarama became the venue of worship by devotees of Shiv on Mahashivratri.

Nestled among hills on three sides, Amrakhji Mahadev Mandir at the foot of Chirwa valley and believed to be the venue of austerities performed by Ambreesh Rish attracted a big number of Shavites on Shivratri. So also, the ancient Vameshwar Mahadev temple at Paldi on Shivratri. So also, the ancient Vameshwar Mahadev temple at Paldi on Udaipur-Iswal route that had been a ‘math’ of the Lakuish sect and about 225-year-old Raj Rajeshwar Shivalaya situated near the Debari Dwar, the cast gateway to Udaipur had big crowd Mela was also held at Jargaji, a place full of scenic beauty among the lush green Aravali hills, about 90 km from Udaipur. It was an event that showcased the rich culture of Mewar and Marwar.

Mahashivratri In Udaipur
Courtesy: Siddharth Nagar
A person dressed up as Lord Shiv

In Shri Kulum Ashram Segura Dhuni Shivratri was celebrated in a unique way. The five-day Shiv Parvati Vivah ceremonies started with the sending of Lagna Patrika when ladies from the bride’s side went to the groom’s house singing ‘mangalgeets’ and the pandit read it out without recitation of ‘mantras’.

In Gupteshwar Mahadev Mandir that is perched on a hilltop in Titardi area on Shivratri day flowers were shower from a helicopter in addition to the performance of other rituals and night long singing of ‘bhajans’.

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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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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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Festivals

Shilpgram Utsav Program Schedule: Showcasing the Beauty of the Eclectic Indian Culture

Shilpgram Utsav: Showcasing the Beauty of the Eclectic Indian Culture
Shilpgram Utsav: Showcasing the Beauty of the Eclectic Indian Culture

Lying beneath the blanket of globalization and modernization is the heart and soul of the simplicity of the Indian Culture. The artforms, handmade products, the ‘Desi’ snacks and fine jewelry is something that is away from the running and crashing city life. Such a tranquil yet peppy ensemble of the culture of various states and their cities can be seen at the Shilpgram Utsav every year in the month of December.

The fest has managed to celebrate its mesmerizing and lively appearance for decades in the same month from 21st Dec to 30th Dec. This 10-day fiesta attracts people from different parts of the world to gather and witness artisans and craftsmen from entire India. Every evening a cultural program is organized at the Shilpgram amphitheater. The bazaar starts around 12 noon where craftsmen showcase handloom, handicraft, jute, silk, pashmina, pure wool, Kashmiri clothes, eco-friendly items and so much more.

This year, at the Shilgram Utsav 2017, 600 folk artists from 18 states and 400 craftsmen from 21 states are going to entice you with their strikingly wonderful art and craft. The first-day entry from 3 pm was free for the general masses, unlike other days when the entry is ticketed.

The beauty of these stalls is that it draws the attention of every age group. In between these crafts and food stalls lies the essence of the fair- the artists performing folk songs and playing folk instruments. One shall find astounding performances by Rajasthani men and women playing instruments, singing, acting out roles and clowns or imposters roaming- the fair is an amalgamation of so much happening!

The food court serves great food for the people coming to the fair. As Shilpgram is a mammoth place sprawling in acres, one cannot walk miles without munching something. The food stalls will serve you some delicacies like ‘Makkhan Malai’ and ‘Raab’.

This 10 day fair is surely a ‘must visit’ for the local people as well as people from other parts of the country.

Here is the schedule of the programs for the next 9 days.

shilpgram fair udaipur
Shilpgram Utsav Schedule 2017

The beauty of India lies in its people, their indigenous art which makes them distinguished and gives them their identity. The beauty of Shilgram is in the feel of the searing sun and the aroma of the Rajasthani Land.

Enjoy the 10 days at the Shilpgram Utsav!