Fairs and Festivals of Rajasthan | Where Culture Comes Alive

Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva

Rajasthan, the land of kings, is a state in India that is known for its rich culture, heritage and vibrant festivals. The fairs and festivals of the rajasthan state are a reflection of the diverse culture, heritage, history, and traditions of the state. Different regions celebrate different fairs and festivals. These events give a glimpse of the life of that region and the entire Rajasthan. Men and women dressed in traditional costumes participate in these festivals with great interest. The respective deities are worshipped. Folk songs are sung. Many types of pure and indigenous dishes are prepared at homes. Sweets are gifted to each other. A confluence of many types of cultural colors can be seen. If you are planning to visit Rajasthan, then make sure before going which festival is coming next. There is a very famous local saying about the time of fairs and festivals of Rajasthan.

“तीज त्योहारां बावड़ी, ले डूबी गणगौर“

This means that all the big festivals in Rajasthan start with Teej and Gangaur is the last big festival. Some of the most popular Fairs and festivals of Rajasthan are listed below:

[Note: Fair is called ‘Mela’ and Festivals is called ‘Tyohaar’ in Rajasthan local & Hindi language.]

Fairs in Rajasthan

Pushkar Fair | Ajmer The Pushkar Mela is one of the most popular festivals in Rajasthan. It is a camel fair that is held in the town of Pushkar. The fair is a sight to behold, with thousands of camels decorated in traditional ornaments and colorful clothes. The fair also features folk dances, music, and other cultural events.

Nagaur Fair | Nagaur The Nagaur Pashu Mela is a cattle fair that is held in the city of Nagaur. The fair is a great opportunity to see the different breeds of cattle that are found in Rajasthan. The fair also features folk dances, music, and other cultural events. It is held in the months of January and February.

Dussehra Mela | Kota

Although the Dussehra festival is celebrated all over the country, the Dussehra Mela of Kota is the most famous. On this day Lord Shri Ram killed Ravana and established the victory of truth over untruth.

Festivals in Rajasthan

Apart from the fairs listed above, there are many festivals celebrated in Rajasthan throughout the year. Some of these festivals are as follows:

Desert Festival | Jaisalmer The Desert Festival is a cultural festival that is held in the Thar Desert. The festival features traditional dances, music, and heritage activities like safaris. The festival is a great opportunity to experience the culture and heritage of Rajasthan. It is held in the months of January and February.

Camel Festival | Bikaner

The Bikaner Camel Festival is a camel festival that is held in the city of Bikaner. The festival features a variety of camel events, such as camel races, camel polo, and camel beauty contests. The festival is a great opportunity to see the deep-rooted connection between the people of Rajasthan and their camels. It is organised in the month of January.

Gangaur Festival:

The Gangaur festival is a festival that is celebrated in the spring season. The festival is a celebration of marital fidelity, childbearing, and the spring season. The festival is celebrated with great fervor and devotion.

Mewar Festival | Udaipur

The Mewar Festival is a festival that is celebrated in the city of Udaipur. The festival is a celebration of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The festival is celebrated with great pomp and show.

Elephant Festival | Jaipur

The Elephant Festival is a festival that is held in the city of Jaipur. The festival is a celebration of the elephant, which is a symbol of Rajput royalty. The festival features elephant races, elephant polo, and other elephant events.

Jaipur Literature Festival | Jaipur

The Jaipur Literature Festival is a literary festival that is held in the city of Jaipur. The festival attracts some of the biggest names in literature from around the world. The festival is a great opportunity to listen to talks and discussions on a variety of literary topics.

Teej Festival | Jaipur

The Teej Festival is a festival that is celebrated in the city of Jaipur. The festival is a celebration of the monsoon season. The festival is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm.

Kajli Teej Festival | Bundi

Kajli Teej is an important Hindu festival celebrated mainly by women. The festival of Kajli Teej is celebrated on Bhadrapada Krishna Tritiya. On the occasion of Kajli Teej in Bundi, a grand procession is taken out for two days and a 15-day fair is held. It is held in the month of July or August according to the date of the Hindu calendar.

Marwar Festival | Jodhpur

The Marwar Festival is a festival that is celebrated in the city of Jodhpur. The festival is a celebration of the Marwar region of Rajasthan. The festival features folk dances, music, and other cultural events.

Shekhawati Festival:

The Shekhawati Festival is a festival that is celebrated in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. The festival is a celebration of the region’s rich culture and heritage. The festival features folk dances, music, and other cultural events.

Urs Festival | Ajmer

The Urs Fair is a Sufi festival that is celebrated in the city of Ajmer. The festival is a celebration of the life and teachings of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, a Sufi saint. The festival is celebrated with great devotion and reverence.

Kumbhalgarh Festival | Rajsamand

The Kumbhalgarh Festival is a festival that is celebrated in the Kumbhalgarh Fort. The festival is a celebration of the fort’s history and heritage. The festival features folk dances, music, and other cultural events.

Land of Culture and Traditions | Rajasthan

Rajasthan is full of colors and life throughout the year. The fairs and festivals of Rajasthan reflect its diverse culture and traditions. You have read above about some of the major festivals and fairs among the many festivals celebrated throughout the year in Rajasthan. Each festival has its own special significance and charm. The festivals of Rajasthan are a great opportunity to experience the rich culture and heritage of the state.

The cultural richness of Rajasthan, combined with its stunning landscape and warm hospitality, makes it a truly attractive tourist destination. Whether you are exploring majestic forts, immersing yourself in vibrant festivals, or simply enjoying delicious cuisine, Rajasthan offers a unique and unforgettable experience. In summary, if you visit Rajasthan, do enjoy the following –