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Pushkar Fair (Oct.-Nov.)
A colourful and lively fair, it is one of the
largest cattle fairs in the country held every year at Pushkar on Kartik
Poornima (full moon, October - November) . The 9 day event is considered to be
the most striking animal fair in the world. As the fair has religious
significance too, pilgrims and tradesmen come in thousands from far and near.
Hundreds of horses, camels, cows and bulls are brought here to be sold. The spectacular fair is
irresistible. Vendor displays their attractive goods and the villagers go on a
shopping spree. Colourfully filled by turbaned men and odhni-wearing women, the
entire atmosphere is electric and the otherwise serene temple town comes to
life.
The Camel & Horse races, parades and other cultural events are organized, which
are full of fun and gaiety. After an eventful day, as the sun sets down, the
entire atmosphere reverbrates with the ringing bells and prayers in the
temples. At night, hundreds of small oil lamps are lit and placed on green
leaves and floated on the lake after the Arti Puja (prayers). the act of worship
is called 'deepdan', and the entire lake is illuminated. The view is simply
mesmerizing and is to be seen to be believed. |
