www.itchotels.com 49 POPULARITY CIRCUIT Udaipur, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer are sought-after destinations for weddings. The dunes, rocky formations and desert flora create a surreal and picturesque backdrop that can transform a wedding into a fairy tale or cinematic experience. November to February forms the best period to host events in Rajasthan, with the locations cupped by dunes. “The timeline of a wedding also provides ample opportunities for sightseeing and experiencing the local culture, making it a memorable and immersive experience,” says Neha. Arranging a traditional camel safari through the Thar Desert; organising a heritage fashion show for guests to showcase traditional Rajasthani attire; and surprise performances by local folk artistes have been unconventional experiences curated by her team. Wedding decor; Courtesy: Allegiant Events Courtesy: Design HQ resources in their own country. I believe that patriotism has taken on a new face and a fresh perspective. In this context, their focus is on supporting local artisans, providing employment opportunities to locals, savouring Indian cuisine over international options, and opting for sustainable decor crafted by local artisans. Food plays a significant role in this shift, and Rajasthan brings in multiple options. Young couples are mindful of their carbon footprint, understanding that a wedding can certainly be eco-conscious.” With a blend of royalty and contemporary amenities, and exotic locales, Udaipur is a stunning destination for weddings”
50 HERITAGE The majestic Kumbhalgarh fort with a grand view of the landscape
www.itchotels.com 51 Whispering tales of chivalry and romance, Udaipur (part of erstwhile Mewar kingdom) is ethereal like a mirage appearing in the deserts of Rajasthan. It is a picture postcard city of love, lakes, and legends. Colourful puppets regale you with folk tales of passion and valour, betrayal, and sacrifices. Nestled in the verdant Girwa Valley and girdled by the Aravali hills, the alluring town was founded in the 16th century by Mewar’s Maharana Udai Singh II who made it his capital. Walking around the city, you see opulent palaces, tranquil lakes, vibrant markets, and ancient temples that are teeming with tourists throughout the year. The labyrinthine and lively lanes of the markets and the kaleidoscopic alleys are buzzing with artists, painters, and jewellers. While Udaipur is known for its art and architecture, it beckons you into the bygone era where time stands still. Beyond the grand palaces and beautiful lakes, there is a pristine side of the city along the outskirts that is teeming with natural and architectural wonder. As you step a little outside Udaipur, you can see the formidable fortresses of the Mewar kingdom that have been weathering the storms and guarding the region. W Eye in the sky The Aravali range in and around Udaipur is lined with massive hill-top forts that are a glorious architectural testament to the ancient royal sagas of the Rajputs Lakshmi Sharath
52 HERITAGE No tour of India is complete without seeing Udaipur. At about 900 m above sea level, crowning the Bansdara peak of the Aravali hills and overlooking the city of Udaipur stands the Sajjangarh Fort, built by Maharana Sajjan Singh in the 19th century. Shimmering in white marble, the Monsoon Palace, as it is also known for its architectural grandeur and panoramic splendour, was meant to be an observatory for the royal household to watch the monsoon clouds in the sky as the raindrops drenched the town. It is also the palace from where the ruler watched his ancestral home in Chittorgarh. The Maharaja’s grand plan to build nine storeys was shelved because of his death but it was later completed by his successor Maharana Fateh Singh. The fort and palace eventually became their hunting lodge. The majestic white fort glistens in the light as it stands as a silent sentinel. Marble pillars lay the foundation for the fortress as you admire the beautiful motifs of flowers and fruits. A symphony of domes and jharokhas with intricate carvings and exquisite fountains greet you as you walk into the vast central courtyard and lose yourself in the quarters. But it’s the towering turrets that give you a glimpse of the royal era. However, the view from the fortress is what stays in the mind’s eye as you feel like gazing eternally at the fairy tale setting of Udaipur that looks right out of a painter’s canvas. Sajjangarh The arches at the Monsoon Palace offer a splendid view of the skyline; Udaipur looks breathtaking from the Sajjangarh fort (top to bottom) Visit the Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary that surrounds the palace. Here, don’t miss the beautiful Tiger Lake, constructed in the 17th century by Maharana Raj Singh. It is a preferred spot for nature camping. WHILE THERE – Rudyard Kipling, writer
www.itchotels.com 53 In all Hindustan there is no more picturesque city than that which Udai Singh, when driven from Chittorgarh, founded amongst the mountains. Visit the Meerabai temple located nearby. Its structure resembles a typical North Indian style temple. Dedicated to the Bhakti saint Meera Bai, the temple’s most distinct features are a raised plinth and a conical roof. It has four small but beautiful pavilions in four corners. WHILE THERE – King George V, former king of the UK Chittorgarh is a living heritage of Rajasthan and a time capsule that takes you to the era of bloody wars and sacrifices. Every monument here — be it the formidable fort, the soaring towers, the ancient temples or the magnificent palaces — stands for pride, courage, lust, love, and devotion. While the legend of Rani Padmavati (Queen Padmini) echoes within the ruins of her palace, every brick in the fortress narrates a heightened tale of chivalry, romance, gallantry, death and destruction. Chittorgarh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sheer magnitude of the walls with the imposing ramparts and towering portals evoke a sense of grandeur. There are seven gates and over 65 monuments, including four palaces, four memorials, and 19 temples. The Vijay Stambh or the Tower of Victory adorned with intricate sculptures was built by Mewar king Rana Kumbha to commemorate his victory against Mahmud Khalji and was dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The Kirti Stambh or the Tower of Fame pays homage to the Jains. Among the palaces, the picturesque but evocative ruins of the Rana Kumbha Palace are awe-inspiring. There was a time when there were over 80 water bodies around the landscape. While Rani Padmavati was the brave heroine of several ballads, religious odes also tell the story of Meera Bai and her devotion to Lord Krishna. Chittorgarh
54 HERITAGE Formidable seems to be an understatement when you take in the colossal fortifications of the Kumbhalgarh Fort with its massive walls, stretching endlessly, circling the hills with an impenetrable embrace. The wall extends to about 36 km and is often referred to as the “Great Wall of India”, making it one of the longest in the world. Built by Rana Kumbha in the 15th century on the rugged Aravalis, the fort divides Mewar from the Marwar region and on a clear day, you are treated to a resplendent view of Rajasthan from here. There are several gateways to the fortress and among the important ones are Ram Pol and the Vijay Pol. There are over 300 monuments — from temples to palaces. The Badal Mahal or the Palace of Clouds is a showstopper, a two-storey structure built at the highest point of the fort. Amidst the many temples, the intricately carved Neelkanth Mahadev Temple and the Vedi Temple are not to be missed. While it was Rana Kumbha who built the edifice of Kumbhalgarh, it has been the refuge of many princes and also the birthplace of one of the most legendary Rajput kings, Maharana Pratap. Kumbhalgarh, like many other forts of Rajasthan, is a repository of stories and a totem of the famed Mewari daredevilry and courage. While Sajjangarh is just 8 km from Udaipur, Chittorgarh is at 110 km and Kumbhalgarh at 84 km. Kumbhalgarh Kumbhalgarh Fort (top) is dotted with temples and palaces; Badal Mahal (right) Visit the Jain Temple of Ranakpur, about 30 km from Kumbhalgarh Fort. Built in the 15th century, the temple is one of the most revered sites among the Jains. It is also a beautiful architectural specimen featuring intricate designs. WHILE THERE
56 FESTIVALS Festivals in Gujarat are marked by vibrant clothes and rich traditions Courtesy: Garba Raas-flickr
www.itchotels.com 57 he multiple representations of Gujarat and its festivities in pop culture speak volumes about the state’s rich and vibrant traditions. Intricate and colourful ethnic attire, sacred customs, and music and dance attract people from every community to participate in the celebrations. Dubbed the “Land of Festivals”, Gujarat hosts over 3,500 fairs and festivals in a year. People come together to share their happiness with one another and usher in a new beginning, all while keeping alive age-old traditions that make these occasions so unique and sought-after. Festivals in Gujarat are a great way to get a peek into the culture and way of life in the state. They thrive in their full glory through generations and promote unity and a sense of deep connection with one’s roots amid revelry. T Land of Festivals Many moods of the From resplendent Navratri celebrations to a unique kiteflying bonanza, here’s a look at some of the most popular festivals of Gujarat Disha Roy Choudhury
58 FESTIVALS In Gujarat, Navratri is nothing short of a carnival. The nine-day festival, usually held in September-October, is dedicated to Goddess Amba, also known as Shakti or Durga, and is worshipped in nine forms. Devotees observe a fast and perform various religious rituals to harmonise the three primary gunas that govern human life as per the Samkhya school of Hindu philosophy, namely, tamas (inactivity and dullness), rajas (passion and energy) and sattva (free of fear, violence and malice), and elevate the latter. Fasting detoxifies the body, helps increase sattva and makes our minds peaceful. Navratri celebrations are heightened with a rhythmic fusion of song and dance, of which garba and dandiya raas (traditional Gujarati folk dance forms) are an integral part. Dressed in their best festive attire, people perform at social gatherings to invoke divine blessings. Garba typically involves a precious metals ahead of the main day on what is known as Dhanteras. The bustling festive markets are laid out much ahead of the festival to showcase an array of clothes, food, jewellery, and much more. Homes are sanitised, refurbished and decked with rangoli (a decorative art form made with powder colours and flowers) and lights to denote a new beginning. Guests visiting a Gujarati household are treated to freshlybaked farsan (snacks) like khaman, khandvi, patra, doodhi muthia, and many more. The celebrations come to a close on Labh Pancham, the final day of the festival, which is when businesses in the state resume. For Gujaratis, Diwali marks the end of the calendar year and is followed by Bestu Varas or Gujarati New Year the next day. Navratri Diwali Vadodara celebrates one of the biggest garba events organised by the United Way of Baroda (UWB). Thousands of people participate in this event that is held for all the nine days of the festival Gandhinagar’s Akshardham Temple, decorated with numerous diyas, is a sight to behold during Diwali and attracts many visitors from all corners HIGHLIGHT HIGHLIGHT twirl and three claps although there are many variations. The claps are believed to awaken divine energy, manifesting the principles of the Gods Brahma, Mahesh and Vishnu. On the other hand, the sticks traditionally used to perform dandiya signify the goddess’ sword. Garba and dandiya nights are very popular today and are celebrated with great pomp in various parts of the world. This auspicious festival honours the triumph of good over evil and that of knowledge over ignorance, both signified by earthen diyas that are synonymous with Diwali. It heralds wealth and prosperity with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, signified through the traditional ritual of buying gold and other During Navratri, the entire community of Gujarat comes together to participate in the festivities Diwali is celebrated with great fervour in Gujarat
www.itchotels.com 59 Gujarat’s renowned Kite Festival marks the end of winter and the commencement of the harvest season. Tourists throng to the state in January to witness a one-of-a-kind sight of innumerable kites in vivid shapes, sizes and hues soaring in the sky as young kite fighters engage passionately in the sport. Kite flying is not unique to the state, but it holds special significance during Makar Sankranti. It is meant to pay respect to the gods who awaken after a six-month-long slumber, according to legend. On a more practical note, as people go to their rooftops, they are exposed to a much-needed dose of vitamin D after the winter season, while gorging on sweets, sesame treats, peanuts and popcorn. Massive celebrations are seen in Ahmedabad, Surat, Nadiad and Vadodara. The state tourism board Uttarayan Every year at the International Kite Festival in Ahmedabad, master kite makers from around the world showcase their innovation through unique creations, from wau-balang kites brought by artists from Malaysia to giant banner kites from the US and Chinese flying dragons also conducts the annual International HIGHLIGHT Kite Festival in Ahmedabad, which is grand. In the centre of the walled city are festive bazaars where enthusiasts are spoilt for choice while buying kites. When the sun sets, these kites are replaced with paper lanterns and are released into the sky, drawing people to a mesmerising spectacle of light and darkness. Gujarat witnesses massive celebrations during Janmashtami (birthday of Lord Krishna) for being home to one of the most venerated and renowned sites of worship, Dwarka, which devotees believe to have been founded by the deity. The main festivities are seen during the night when the idol of infant Krishna is bathed and placed in the cradle. One of the biggest attractions is the Dahi Handi ceremony observed the following day. Hundreds of devotees congregate and make a human pyramid to break suspended earthen pots full of buttermilk. At various locations, people also perform Rasa Lila, a dramatic presentation depicting the life of Lord Krishna and his love for his consort Radha. Temples in Dwarka organise largescale festivities and attract many devotees during the festival, usually held between August and September. Janmashtami Witness massive Dahi Handi celebrations in Ahmedabad and Surat. Visit grand Janmashtami melas (fairs) in Porbandar and Rajkot for cultural programmes, exciting rides, shopping and lipsmacking food HIGHLIGHT Dwarkadhish Temple is a 1200-year-old religious site in Dwarka The International Kite Festival includes kite flying, kite flyers’ parade and other activities
60 FESTIVALS This three-day celebration at the Sun Temple in Modhera, Gujarat, attracts tourists not for any religious tradition or custom but for a magical encounter with traditional art and culture. Primarily, it is a showcase of enchanting performances by artistes from all over the nation as a tribute to Indian classical and folk dance forms. The dancers’ graceful movements in traditional costumes, accentuated by a play of light and shadow on stage, is a sight to behold. The serene temple premises further add to the experience, almost merging the spiritual with the corporeal. Built by the Solanki empire, the Sun Temple exemplifies elegant The revered pilgrimage centre in the Aravali district, said to have been built in the 11th century, has emerged as a well-known Vaishnav shrine that houses the deity Gadadhar or Sakshi Gopal. It is very popular among the Bhil tribal people (ethnic group in Western India) who refer to the deity as Kalio Bavji or the dark divinity. The temple is flanked by shops for silver, metalware, clothes, and other items. The temple also catches attention for its architectural splendour. Built with white sandstone, it features intricate engravings depicting various episodes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. From the open courtyard to the domed ceilings, every corner is magnificent! It is also one of the rare shrines where cow idols are worshipped to signify the deity’s childhood as a cowherd. Its significance is further demonstrated by the numerous temple ruins and idols excavated over time. Shamlaji Melo Modhera, located to the south-west of the Mehsana district of Gujarat, is also one of the first round-the-clock solar-powered villages in India and is a must-visit. In fact, the Sun Temple is also completely powered by solar energy On the occasion, devotees also take a dip in the Nagdhara kund (tank or artificial lake) located close to the temple and perform various rituals HIGHLIGHT HIGHLIGHT craftsmanship and sensibility. Modhera Dance Festival, also known as Uttarardh Mahotsav, is held by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited after Uttarayan in the third week of January. It is here that you can also meet art and dance connoisseurs from across the world. The festival is a fitting testament to our rich and diverse heritage. The word ‘melo’ refers to a fair, which is held at the Shamlaji Temple for about two weeks in November every year. Hundreds of pilgrims from different communities assemble at the temple to offer prayers, sing devotional songs, bathe in the holy waters of the adjacent Meshwo river and immerse themselves in spiritual exuberance. Modhera Dance Festival Modhera Dance Festival offers a great opportunity to experience the heritage of Indian dance Shamlaji Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu