Woman Celebrating Gangaur ( Mewar) Festival in Rajasthan
Mewar Festival is the festival of Spring or Rituraj, king of seasons.
Udaipur with its tranquil lakes, surrounded by the breathtaking Aravali hills, narrow meandering roads and lanes, is the ideal location for the festival.
About Gangaur Festival
Celebrated during the Hindu month of Chaitra(March- April), the two day festivity is marked by a joyous mood which pervades the environs of Udaipur. This festival is dedicated to Gauri, a manifestation of Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva and Symbol of conjugal bliss and marital happiness.
During the Festival the delightful culture of Rajasthan comes into full view through songs, dances, devotional music and fireworks displays.
In days of yore, men had to go out for a long periods of time to attend to their professions and Gangaur was an occassion when married women were re- united with their husbands.
Thousands of people from the countryside comes to take part in the procession of Gangaur, which goes around from village to village. Tribal men and women get the opportunity to meet and interact freely and during this time, they select partners and elope to marry. An unusual, romantic custom sanctioned by the community, it helps many young people find their life partner.
Women make various ornaments out of gram flour for decorating the images of Isar and Gauri. The ornaments are so beautiful that they seem to made out of Gold itself and impart a life like appearance to the images.
Evenings are coloured with Gangaur processions . Groups of Women balancing several brass pitchers on their heads add to the gaiety of the Udaipur celebrations.
Rajasthani Women Decorating and Celebrating Mewar Festival
Highlights of Gangaur Festival
The highlight of the festival is a grand festival is a grand boat procession which starts from famous Lake Palace and ends at the Gangaur Ghat of Lake Pichola. A ‘Shobha Yatra‘ is taken out through the main street of the city elephants, camels, horses and folk artists participate in this rally.
A fancy dress compedition for foreign couples dressed in Rajasthani costumes is a big draw for participants and spectators alike.
There are many sweets and dishes prepared during the festival which tastes amazing, and the best part is the Shobha Yatra which is great to watch and even involve.
