Gangaur Festival of Rajasthan
Gangaur is traditionally celebrated all over Rajasthan with special significance for the women of the Thar desert region i.e., Bikaner, Jodhpur, Jaipur, etc. It is also celebrated in some parts of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Haryana and Gujarat.
Last day of Gangaur procession. (Image source)
Jaipur
Rajasthan, particularly Jaipur is widely known for its grand and vibrant culture and celebration of events, and the Gangaur festival is no different. Various fairs are seen in different corners of the state, with intriguing processions and celebration. Traditionally, a group of women beautifully dressed in exquisite attires and jewellery, process around the town with the beautified idols of Shiva and Gauri placed on their heads. Bands baaja are also a part of this procession as they sing traditional and folk songs. The event ends with the immersion of the idols in a bawdi or johad (step wells), bidding farewell to Goddess Gauri and Lord Shiva. Often, people from distant corners of the town also join to witness this colourful affair. In Rajasthan, some tribes also hold Gangaur as an auspicious event for choosing future life partners.
Jaipur Gangaur procession near the city palace. (Image source)
Udaipur
Udaipur has a Ghat named Gangaur Ghat dedicated to this festival situated on the side of Lake Pichola. This ghat is the prime location for celebration of festivals Like Gangaur, Teej and many others. In Udaipur, the traditional procession starts from the City Palace, and several other places, which passes through the city. There’re processions involving beautiful palanquins, chariots, bullock carts and even performances by various folk artists. On the last day of Ganagur, these idols of Gan and Gaur are immersed in Lake Pichola from this Ghat.
Udaipur Gangaur Ghat immersion of idols. (Image source)
Gangaur aptly reflects the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan and is celebrated with great fervour in different parts of the state.