For three days in January or
February every year, culminating on 'Purnima' (full moon day).
Desert Festival is the best showcase, one can
ever want to view the rich and colorful and rich culture of the desert
region of Rajasthan. The major attractions of the festivals are Gair and
Fire dancers who wear vibrant and brightly colored costumes as they
dance and sing and perform on the regional tunes that are mainly based
on the ballads of tragedy, valor, and romance of the local heroes. Along
with these folk performers are snake charmers, puppeteers, and acrobats.
The ship of the desert camels, of course earn their special place in the
festival and camel rides are quite popular here. Camel polo and camel
dance are two unique feature events of the fair just as the turban tying
competition and display of the most glorious moustaches. The thing to
note here is that turbans and mustaches are considered symbols of honor
in the region. There is also a Mr. Desert contest that further enhances
the fun of the occasion.
The picturesque backdrop of Jaisalmer Fort and barren, silvery Sam sand
dunes compliment the music and rhythm, graceful movements and brilliant
hues of the performers and the traditional handicrafts that can bee seen
in the fair. The full moon night completes the picture with its magic
aura making it one of the most unforgettable events.
