Encompassing the vivid colours of Rajasthan’s glorious culture, the iconic ‘Maru Mahotsav’ (Desert Festival) returns to Jaisalmer.
A globally famed annual festival, the Mahotsav was held back last year due to COVID pandemic along with other major social and public events. However, as the festival takes place amid safety measures and COVID prevention guidelines, it also marks return of other designated festivities.
The Rajasthan tourism department organises the festivals as per the annual calendar of the fairs and festivals.
“Rajasthan is known for its colourful culture and our festivals are a reflection of the same. These have traditionally attracted visitors from all over the world,” said by Nishant Jain, Director, Department of Tourism, Rajasthan
He also said “Unfortunately, the pandemic of COVID halted these for almost a year, however, due to effective control on the disease in state, we are now confidently opening up with safety measures,”
Rajasthan is home to several festivals of global prestige, the tourism department has categorised the festivals in 41 minor, 9 medium and 15 large events. In addition, there are many privately promoted cultural and other events that attract large number of visitors. All these have been on hold but are making a gradual return with ‘Maru Mahotsav’ in the lead.
The three day Desert Festival has started from February 24, 2021 and in consideration of COVID situation it has an increased focus on live broadcast also this year.
The festival is having interesting events like performing of renowned singer Khailash Kher, moustache and turban tying competitions as well as sand art display, camel decorative show and musical and cultural shows.
District Administration appealed to residents of the district to decorate their homes during the festival and make ‘rangolis’ in front of their houses. Owners of houses best decorated will be awarded by the administration. Signages in the Golden City have been coloured with golden yellow colour.
Live broadcast of ‘Maru Mahotsav-2021’ will be done on YouTube, the official said. Digital walls will be installed at railway stations, airports, and other places in the city to provide tourists information about the daily programmes at the festival.
The festival showcases the colorful culture of Rajasthan through various activities, competitions, and cultural performances. One can witness folk performances, fascinating competitions, and beauty pageants during the three-day-long annual festival at Jaisalmer. Apart from this, exquisite handicrafts will be displayed at the fair.
