India is known for its diversity, it is like a pretty collage of regions, each of which contributes with a unique shade of its own. One of the most vivid states, among others, is Rajasthan. This is the land which faces the harsh challenges of the terrain with a sparkling spirit with the help of its resourceful people, who have shown exemplary results when it comes to transforming the vast stretches of desert into an ideal backdrop for showcasing the colours of festivity in the region.
One such festival organised in this part of the nation is the Jaisalmer Desert Festival. Organised by the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation, this festival enhances the shimmer of the golden city of Jaisalmer. The bright coloured yellow sandstone, used predominantly for construction of houses there, provides for a cheerful and welcoming note to the festival and anyone who witnesses the festival can feel its warmth. It is a carnival that is adorned by fascinating sights – intricate crafts, glittering jewels, vibrant ethnic clothing and much more. All of these amazing elements are surrounded by the rich heritage of architectural masterpieces like temples, palaces and forts, which combine to serve an awe-inspiring experience for the on-lookers.
As tourism is quite a dependable source of revenue in Rajasthan, the concept of this desert festival was meant to add to the attractions. However, it soon became one of the primary attractions itself! It all begins with a procession of camels from ethnic clans or ‘Shobha Yatra’, as they know it. This establishes a connection between the land and the visitors and the latter look forward to know more about the cultural inheritance of Jaisalmer. Various nomadic tribes travel across the desert to sell their indigenously prepared items and boost the vivacity of the fanfare.
There are a host of exciting contests to enjoy at the festival, from mustache and turban contests to camel polo matches; there won’t be a moment when nothing fun isn’t going on around you. In case you decide to spend your night witnessing the marvels of the festival, you can book yourself a tent at the Desert Safari Camp. With so much of activity around, you are certain to get hungry and this is when Jaisalmer comes up with a plethora of gastronomic wonders; don’t forget to try out some of their authentic delicacies. The festival concludes on a full moon night with a musical treat, wherein the local singers and dancers perform ballads that are related to local legends of heroism and fireworks fill the sky with colours, as a reflection of the celebrations on the land beneath it.
