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Ships of the Desert Dazzle at Bikaner Fest
8 Jan
Summary
- Camels are meticulously groomed and decorated for the Bikaner Camel Festival.
- Intricate fur patterns, tassels, and bells adorn the camels for the event.
- The festival celebrates desert culture and honors the camel's historical significance.
Preparations are underway for the world-famous Bikaner Camel Festival, scheduled from January 9 to 11. Camel owners and artisans are meticulously decorating the animals, transforming them into vibrant displays of Rajasthan's living heritage. This annual spectacle celebrates desert culture, with camels being groomed, trimmed, and adorned with intricate fur patterns, tassels, beads, and bells.
The festival features competitions where nearly one hundred camels will be judged on their decoration, fur cutting, dancing, and racing. For the owners, it's a deep connection to their identity and heritage, preserving age-old crafts like embroidery and beadwork. The celebrations commence on January 2 with a traditional 'Aawan Ri Manuhar' ceremony and procession.
Further events include a heritage walk, a local food festival, and various 'Pride of Bikaner' contests on January 9. January 10 will host a yoga session, camel-centric events, art exhibitions, and folk performances. The festival concludes on January 11 at the Raisar Sand Dunes with rural sports, handicraft bazaars, and cultural performances, reinforcing Bikaner's status as a cultural tourism hub.
