Gangaur Festival: Rajasthan’s Homage to Shiva-Parvati

Jaipur, Rajasthan: The Gangaur festival holds a cherished connection with the illustrious heritage of Jaipur. When the ‘Gangaur Mata’ procession sets forth from Tripolia Gate, it attracts an assembly of both local and international visitors eager to venerate the Goddess.

Folk performers showcase the vibrant culture of Rajasthan as they accompany the regal journey of the Goddess. The Gangaur festival is deeply intertwined with the traditions and way of life in the Pink City. The grand event takes place on the third day of the lunar fortnight in the month of Chaitra.

The festival pays homage to the enduring union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, representing the epitome of marital harmony. Married women seek the Goddess’s blessings for a prosperous marital life, donning traditional attire and chanting hymns in honor of Gangaur. Unmarried women petition for an auspicious match.

The processions parade through every neighborhood and colony in Jaipur, featuring majestic elephants and horses. The entourage is complemented by armed guards accompanying the artists.

Dr. Bhavana, an expert in Jaipur’s historical chronicles, shared with ETV Bharat that Gangaur festivities once flourished throughout the city. “This festival of Gangaur has been observed since the era of the Amer princely state. The former royal family of Jaipur reveres the Goddess before the procession’s culmination,” remarked Dr. Bhavana.

She added that historical accounts reveal instances where figures such as Ram Singh Khangarot of Singhpuri in Jobner, and Jai-Vijay from Sikar, sought to claim the Gangaur festival from Medta.

“Likewise, Jasrai from Jalore and Harraj Panwar from Shergarh attempted to seize the Gangaur festival of Bundi. Yet, the enduring tradition of Gangaur continues to be celebrated with the same opulence,” she concluded.