Introduction
Myths
and legends permeate the soil of Rajasthan from one corner to the other.
Spirituality is a way of life here and the people strictly follow their
deep-rooted beliefs. To witness and experience it all, you can pay a visit
to the exotic town of Pushkar which holds the Pushkar Fair, the largest
camel fair in the world, and houses the legendary Pushkar Lake and the only
Brahma Temple. Every year to observe the exclusive scene of the fair and the
prayers being offered, tourists from all around the country and the world
flock to the town in hordes. The fairground at Pushkar is a sight to behold,
replete with camels, horses, cattle, folk musicians, dancers, acrobats and
the colourfully attired Rajasthani men and women.
Venue
The grand Pushkar Fair is held in the holy town of Pushkar, 11 km from
Ajmer. Jaipur lies at a distance of 145 km from here and is also the closest
airport. Locals from all over the state gather at the site to partake and to
perform in an event which is so full of life.
Time of the Year
According to the English calendar, the Pushkar Fair falls in the month of
November every year. As per the Hindu calendar, it starts on Naomi and
culminates on Kartik Poornima (Full Moon).
History & Legends
Pushkar has an ancient mythological character. According to Hindu
mythology, Lord Brahma put demon Vajra Nabh to death with a lotus flower.
The petals of the flower fell down around Pushkar. Lakes sprang up where the
petals had fallen down. And that was how the Pushkar Lake came into being.
There is yet another legend that says once Lord Brahma was flying over the
region on his swan. It so happened that petals from the lotus flower fell
down to give rise to lakes. Lord Brahma was sure it was time for performing
yagna. The presence of Savitri, Lord Brahma's consort, was mandatory for the
execution of the yagna. Since Savitri was not there, Lord Brahma married a
local girl and sat for the yagna. Meanwhile, Savitri arrived and was enraged
at the sight. She cursed that Lord Brahma would not be worshipped anywhere
on earth. And so, the existing Brahma Temple is the only temple in the
country. Though Lord Brahma is one among the Hindu Trinity, he is not
worshipped anywhere else.
Celebration
People
from all over the state gather here to commemorate the event. The grand
Pushkar Fair is a hub of activity. Livestock owners arrive here with camels,
bullocks and horses as buyers make a big crowd and attempt to get hold of
the finest breed. Days before the festival actually falls, animals are
groomed and preened so as to attract customers and strike a good deal. The
camels, horses and cattle are embellished. Everyone of the sellers tries to
get the best price. And it makes an interesting sight as the sellers compete
against one another to get hold of the customers.
Devotees can be seen around the Pushkar Lake busy with the religious
rituals. Rishis, yogis and sadhus fill the air with religious mantras.
Oblations are made at the Brahma Temple. The Savitri Temple and the Brahma
Temple appear to be packed with worshippers and devotees.
On the approach of evening, everyone takes to a festive mood. The
atmosphere picks up heat as folk artists start to perform. Traditionally
attired men and women appear on the scene to dance to the soulful tunes of
the past. Bonfires are lit as the women continue to thrill. Folk dances like
Ghoomar, Chari, Snake Dance and Fire Dance are the major attractions for
tourists. The event is also seen as an opportunity where the tribal folks
get to interact with each other
