Gangaur: A Celebration of Love and Togetherness

India is a land of diverse cultures and traditions, and one such festival that showcases the rich heritage of Rajasthan is Gangaur. Celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor, Gangaur is a festival that honours the divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is celebrated by womenfolk in Rajasthan, who pray for the long life and prosperity of their husbands.

History:

The history of Gangaur dates back to the mediaeval period when the Rajput kings ruled over Rajasthan. The festival was celebrated to mark the arrival of spring and the beginning of the harvest season. Over time, the festival became associated with the worship of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and it gained immense popularity among the people of Rajasthan.

Legend and Mythology:

According to mythology, Goddess Parvati returned to her parental home during Gangaur to meet her friends and family. Lord Shiva, who missed his beloved wife, followed her to her parental home disguised as a beggar. When Parvati recognized him, she was overjoyed and celebrated their reunion with her friends.

Significance:

Gangaur is an important festival for married women in Rajasthan as they pray for the long life and well-being of their husbands. It is also a celebration of love and togetherness, where women dress up in their finest clothes and jewelry and participate in various cultural activities.

Rituals:

The festival of Gangaur is celebrated for 18 days, starting from the day after Holi. Women observe a strict fast during this period and offer prayers to Goddess Parvati for the well-being of their husbands. On the last day of the festival, women carry clay idols of the goddess on their heads and take them to a nearby lake or river for immersion.

Preparation and Celebrations:

Preparations for Gangaur begin weeks in advance, with women shopping for new clothes, jewelry, and other accessories. Houses are decorated with colorful lights and flowers, and traditional dishes are prepared for the festivities. The celebrations of Gangaur are a sight to behold, with women dressed in vibrant colors and jewelry, singing and dancing to the beats of traditional Rajasthani music. The streets are adorned with colorful lights and decorations, and there are various cultural programs and competitions organized for the occasion.

Best Places to visit and Food:

If you want to experience the true essence of Gangaur, then Rajasthan is the place to be. Some of the best places to visit during the festival include Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Bikaner. No festival in India is complete without delicious food, and Gangaur is no exception. Some of the famous dishes prepared during the festival include dal baati churma, ghevar, and malpua.

Gangaur is a festival that celebrates the spirit of love and togetherness, and it is an important part of the cultural heritage of Rajasthan. It is a time when women come together to pray for the well-being of their husbands and celebrate their bond of love.