LAND OF KINGS

Rajasthan which is also known as the "Land of kings" is very rich in culture. It's tradition, heritage and mountains attracts a lot of tourists every year. In the year back of kings, this beautiful land was known as Rajputana. Over the years it has been ruled by various kings including the Rajput, Maratha and even Muslims rulers, which have resulted in the diverse culture of Rajasthan. 'Attithi Devo Bhavo' is a principle of the Rajasthan culture. It means to treat your guests like God. The hospitality of the people of Rajasthan is famous all over the world which makes tourists to visit the place again. Apart from this, there is a popular folk song 'Padharo Mhare Desh' which means 'Welcome to my Country'. Each region of Rajasthan has its own folk culture. Marganiyars and Langas are two prominent group that contributed to the Rajasthan folk music. During pre monsoon period, 'ragas' are performed to call forth the rains. Banjaras, Miranis, Jogis and many other are famous groups there. Some of the traditional instruments are sarangi, kamayach, dhols, shehnai and been-folks are usually used for certain purposes to tell a story of bravery or love. They are usually in the form of ballads. Ghoomer dance, which originated in Udaipur has gained international recognition. If you are a lover of architecture, then Rajasthan is an ideal place for you. There are some amazing sites of Islamic, Hindu, Colonial and even modern architecture. Jaisalmer Fort and Golden Fort were built by Rawal Jaisal, a rajput ruler in 1156 AD. The fort contains several gates, Jain temples and Havelis and in included as a world heritage site by UNESCO. Apart from this, the Umaid Bhavan palace in jodhpur, the Jain temple in Ranakpur and several other sites such as memorials, forts, heritage hotels are attraction to many tourists and visitors. The pink city of Jaipur has been named the UNESCO world heritage site in 2019. Handicrafts are another important part of Rajasthan culture. Any leather item is usually camel leather. Carpets are made from hand knitting techniques. There are many miniature items made of red sand. Pagri is something one can bring back as a memory from Rajasthan. The food of Rajasthan is widely known across the worlds for its various spices and sweetness. Daalbati, Kachori, Ghewar, Gheriya are some of the local food items that one must try while in Rajasthan. Camels are commonly found animals in Rajasthan. They are desert animals. Camel rides are another popular attraction for tourists. Camel fairs take place every year in Bikaner, Pushkar and other regions. This festival is dedicated to the ship of the desert and their owners. Rajashthan is a vast state but living in its rural areas will give you a through insight of the Rajasthan folk and their culture. The state has been blessed with such historical and beautiful forts and other monuments. One must Rajasthan to explore the land of Maharajas. Achin Das, Roll no: 19 1st semester, Department of communication and journalism, Gauhati University.