Rajasthan- a hidden gem of the state in North India is a marvel. With marvellous palaces and castles, the deserts of Jaisalmer, the mouth-watering local cuisine, to the safaris in Ranthambore- this place is famous not only for its man-made extravaganza or natural wonders but also for its lively people, culture and festivals.
One such festival is the Mewar Festival, held in the south-central region of Rajasthan- known as the Mewar region, famous for its old traditions and legacy. The city of Udaipur is all set to host the festival held on the 24th -26th of March this year. The festival is usually held in March or April, marking the beginning of the spring season.
How is the festival celebrated?
Showcasing the rich historical culture and heritage of the Mewar region, the function is held in Udaipur (City of Lakes) and is filled with cultural events, such as folk dances- Kalbeliya and Ghoomar, live performances by musicians performing old melodies and decorated markets. The entire city comes alive, attracting visitors from around the globe.
Women deck themselves with vibrant traditional Rajasthani attires and decorate the images or idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. These images and idols are then carried in processions that start at the clock tower and end at Gangaur Ghat at Lake Pichola and loaded onto hundreds of boats. It is a sight to behold.
The locales prepare for the festival weeks in advance, and the festivities start with collecting ashes from the Holika Dahan fire during Holi. Ghevar, a local traditional delicacy, is prepared as an offering to the Lord and gets distributed among each other as Prasad during the festival. Colourful rangoli displaying the Mewar culture adorn the city and houses. An impressive display of fireworks also takes place at the end of this three-day fun-filled festival.
The festival also coincides with the Gangapur festival held by the womenfolk with great zeal and devotion, where they pray to Goddess Parvati to bless them with a spring full of harvest and marital harmony while urging the goddess to bless their husbands with good health and long life.
What is the history behind the Mewar Festival?
The festival can be traced back to the Sisodia dynasty when Maharana Udai Singh met a holy man while out hunting. The religious man was meditating on a hill that offered a mesmerising view of Lake Pichola. While blessing the king, the holy man advised him to build a palace in the same place. While agreeing to advise, the king built the palace and founded the city of Udaipur.
Since then, the Mewar festival is celebrated on a grand scale every year to promote the beauty and culture of the city of Udaipur. Locals also celebrate Gangaur and welcome the harvest season during it.
So, book your tickets to Udaipur to celebrate the Mewar Festival and soak yourself in the local culture!
Planning to visit Rajasthan soon? Do not miss out on our Rajasthan Guide to help you explore the best of the country.
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