Monsoon magic in Bundi
CHANDAN SEN
|
In Bundi, Rajasthan, the monsoon is a season of rainbows and dancing peacocks.
|
DIFFERENT FACES: Bringing alive beauty and art.
Monsoon, the season of rainbows and dancing peacocks, is certainly not to be wasted indoors. A special season of the year, it brings everything to you afresh. In Bundi, Rajathan, the rich flora is an example of Nature's magnificence. It is a great holiday destination during this season.
The first stop State. After a scorching, sultry summer, the rain brings hope and joy. The soothing showers make this place even more beautiful and gorgeous. The chain of small barren hills now dressed in green makes Bundi a special monsoon treat for the visitor. The palaces and their architectural glory reflect the aesthetic sense of the past rulers. The fortress, temples and baolis have about them a fairy tale touch. This is the land that inspired Rudyard Kipling and is also famous as Chhoti Kashi.
Monsoon is more than just a downpour. It is the spell of rejuvenation, festivity and happiness. In the relatively dry climactic conditions of Rajasthan, rain is more precious than any gemstone and ornament.
About 30 km from Bundi Bhimlat, a waterfall that is spread over an area of around six km. The water falls from a height of 60 metres, making it a fine tourist spot. The accumulation of the rainwater forms a pond below. The sound of the splashing water can be heard from quite a distance.
Nature's delight
The journey to this remote waterfall is adventurous as well as pleasant. The winding road and the green countryside are a pleasant sight. The beautiful lakes of Jait Sagar , Naval Sagar , Dhoondla Mahadev near Talwas, Dugari and many others wear a special look. The Ramgarh Sanctuary and Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambhore) can also be covered as a special excursion.
As the monsoon rain falls on the parched land and the intoxicating scent of the wet soil rises into the air, swings or the jhoola are hung from trees and decorated with flowers. Young women dress up in traditional clothes and sing, to celebrate and welcome the advent of the monsoon. The Teej, essentially a festival for women is dedicated to Parvati, commemorating her union with Shiva. During the monsoon the local Kajli Teej festival is celebrated.
In Bundi, Teej is celebrated on the third day of Bhadra. The festival begins with the traditional procession of Teej Mata in a decorated palanquin passing through the main bazaar and streets.
The procession has decorated elephants, camels, bands, artistes and cultural groups depicting the place. The original Teej idol was hijacked from Jaipur by the king of Gothra and the present one is only a replica.
A local fair is also held on this occasion exhibiting handicraft, paintings and pots and so on.
Both the urban and the rural folk join in this festive occasion. Though the main function lasts for two days the celebrations continue till Janmashtami.
A local delicacy, Laddu Baati made of roasted wheat balls soaked in oil is popular in the season. It is served with a special curry and garlic sauce. Sweets are specially relished at this time.
A monsoon safari in the region is a treat. Bundi, famous as the a Queen of Hadoti, is all set to welcome yet another season.
The advent of the monsoon masti brings with it delight, with lots of fun, frolic and surprises for everyone.
Printer friendly
page
Send this article to Friends by
E-Mail
Young World
