Chiiz Volume 23 Pushkar Photography | Page 42

The Last of the Traditional Fairs : Pushkar Fair Pushkar, a spectacular amalgamation of spirituality, vibrant culture and enthusiastic shutterbugs who want to capture it all, is a historical place with both religious and cultural importance. Pushkar is the only place in the world that houses a temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, who is the Creator and a part of the Holy Trinity, according to the Hindu mythology. It also hosts a livestock fair and culture fete annually which attracts thousands of photographers from all over the world. Pushkar Fair, held in the small desert town of Pushkar every November, is one of the last great traditional fairs of India and one of the most high-rated travel experiences. Andrew Adonaiori Delhi, India The Mela Ground, where the fair is set up, is a sight to behold. Pilgrims can be seen flitting around, either hurrying from their baths or to perform their rituals in the Brahma Temple. On one side, you will witness a sea of cattle, decorated with colorful accessories, waiting to be traded off. On the other, the amusement rides, food stalls serving local delicacies and people disguised as Gods, parading with their vibrant paraphernalia, can be seen on the mela ground. As the day morphs into night, the Pushkar Fair transforms into a magical place with the entire fair festooned with the colorful lights and hot air balloons floating in the sky. The loud music and the collective noise of the fair seem to fade away as you go deeper into the fair. And that’s how Pushkar Fair leaves you - completely mesmerized by the vibrant culture of Rajasthan that reflects in the big moustaches of the men in kesariya turbans and dhoti-kurtas, in the long colorful veils of the women, who are adorned from head to toe in their silver ornaments, in the taste of dal bati churma and the delicious ghevar and of course, in the warm welcoming hearts of people there. Pushkar Fair is truly an experience that cannot be justified by mere words. You have to experience it to know it. Ready to Take Over the World Nikon D850 85mm F/9 1/5000 ISO250