The famous town of Pushkar is hosting the world famous Pushkar Mela again. This annual five day festival in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan, taking place in the town of Pushkar, is described as one of the world’s largest camel fairs. Adorned in colorfully embroidered saddles and throws, blinging bells and glasswork, each camel at the fair is a beauty to behold. A more dazzling beauty parade than the Best Decked Camel Fashion Show would be hard to find anywhere in the world.
Camels aren’t the only animals sold at the fair, though. The Pushkar Mela sees around 6000 cattle eevry year, from all corners of India. Potential buyers flock the mela and brisk trade is done. However, cattle trade is not all this fair is about. 80% of tourists in India find thier way to the fair to enjoy the kaleidoscope of color and culture it is. A good percentage of these are pilgrims seeking to take a dip in the Pushkar lake and visit the ancient Brahma Temple there. Yet others come to visit the Ajmer Sharif Dargah and enjoy the fair at the same time.
Starting today, various cultural programmes are being organised for the devotees and tourists coming over from different parts of the world. The district administration has organised pot ‘matki’ race, cultural dance performances, hockey matches, and other activities. To attract tourists, hot air balloon rides, horse riding, and camel safaris have been arranged.
