JAISALMER SAFARI

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History of festival –

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According to legends & myths Lord Krishna told Arjuna that that a successor belonging from the Yadav community will set up his kingdom on the Trikuta Hill. In 1196, this prediction came true when Rawal Jaiswal, a descendant of the Yadav clan, established his kingdom in Jaisalmer. Then the people celebrated when they came to know that the prophecy came true. This celebration soon became a festival which is celebrated every year.

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Then the Rajasthan government also took initiative to attract tourists as well as foreigners and started marketing this vibrant festival. The Rajasthan Tourist Development Corporation conducts this festivals and fairs and the arrangements are taken care by state & local administrations.

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Celebration & attractions of festivals –

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The deserts come alive with this colorful, vibrant and enthusiastic festival. In this three day event they stress & exhibit the local elements and heritage of Jaisalmer.  Through its socio- cultural programs this festival also brings back the old glory & grandeur of ancient time which is an integral part of people of Jaisalmer. Various art & craft work are displayed in the festival which is made by the local people themselves. Various forms of art, folk dance, song, are performed by the professional artist who represents the ethnicity of Jaisalmer. Evenings are generally intended for enthralling sound & light shows.
 
The local people can be spotted draped in their colorful & bright traditional attires. Many items such as  embellished skirts, hand-woven shawls, rugs, carvings on wood and stone, camel decorations, embellished leather bags; ethnic silver jewelry and terracotta are displayed which are crafted by desert craftsman. The tourists can also taste stalls put up in the fest selling traditional Rajasthani cuisines.

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The Gair & Fire dancers are also one of the very popular attractions of the festival. Then there are professional gymnasts & stunt performers who entertain the crowd by their performances. Some interesting competitions are also held which not only aims to entertain the crowd but to increase awareness & preserve culture as well. 'The moustache competition' is one of them which are very popular among the foreigners. Turban tying is also another such competition.

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Other attractions of festival include snake charmers, puppeteers, acrobats, tug of war & Mr. Desert contest. This festival generally marks the end by famous Camel show. The camels are decorated & the best camel receives an award as well. Camel polo is also held during the festival.

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         Facts about desert festival –

•    Location: Sam Sand Dunes 42 K.M. from Jaisalmer

•    How to reach: SUV or Camel safari

•    Timing: Its held In the month of February

•    Attractions: Cultural showcase

•    Celebrated in : Rajasthan

•    City : Jaisalmer