Baneshwar Fair Rajasthan - 14th-18th Feb 2011

Have you ever seen an amazing tribal festival? If no, then you must visit Rajasthan  during the celebrations of the Baneshwar festival. A popular festival of the Bhil community of Rajasthan, Baneshwar Fair is grabbing the eye balls of the travelers these days.

In the months of January-February, the banks of Mahi and Som rivers in the Dungapur district, comes alive with several vibrant colors. This year this fair started from 14th February and will last till 18th February. Baneshwar Fair is a four day affair, where Bhil people of Rajasthan, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh come together for this fest. It is a festival of great religious importance and is celebrated with much flair and enthusiasm.

According to legends Baneshwar fair is actually a blend of two fairs. One dedicated to Baneshwar Mahadev and the other dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Janakunwari a local leader constructed a temple of Lord Vishnu and on the day when the idol was established these two fairs merged together.

The first day of the fair begins with the main priest ( or Mathadhish) taking a dip in the holy rivers. He arrives here from Sabla in a huge procession along with a silver image of Mavji. Next day a grand aarti is performed at the shrine where people also offer wheat flour, pulses, ghee, jaggery, salt, coconut and cash. The ritual of immersing the ashes of their dead relatives is also considered very sacred.

As for entertainment many cultural shows are organized in the evening that are very attractive. You can also see Raslila that is performed in the temple complex after the sunset. Here you will get to see many magical, animal and acrobatic shows that are quite popular among the travelers. You can also buy some really interesting stuff like lac bangles, printed dress material, antique jewelery while visiting the Baneshwar Fair.

So come to Rajasthan during the Baneshwar Fair celebrations and spend some memorable holidays here.

Baneshwar Fair Rajasthan - 14th-18th Feb 2011