Rajasthan Fairs - Nagaur Fair
The Nagaur Fair is well known all over the state of Rajasthan and the special guests of honor at this fair are- Cattle! Yes, Nagaur Fair is has the unique distinction of being the second largest cattle fair in India. The festive ambience during the Nagaur Fair is permeated by the bellows of the cattle that are decorated by their owners and the genral buzz that is associated with fairs such as these.
If you are thinking that the Nagaur Fair is just a regular cattle fair, you are mistaken. Mirchi Bazaar, the main attraction of the fair is a great place to shop for local handicrafts, wooden items, leather accessories and ethnic jewelry. A number of races, tug of wars and cockfights are also held to entertain visitors at the Nagaur Fair.
As it nears evening, folk singers and artists descend on the spot to entertain the visitors and enthrall them with their lively performances. Bonfires and gaily-decorated camps add more color and excitement, which makes a visit to the Nagaur Fair a truly memorable experience. Please note that the Nagaur Fair will be held from 25th to 28th of February in the year 2007.
Nagaur Fair is held every year during the month of january and feburary at the quaint town of Nagaur one of the most picturesque of Rajput townships.
Various games are organized during this four day festival. Tug-of-war, camel races, cock fights etc. provide entertainment to the tourists and visitors. As the sun goes down, a joyous atmosphere is created by the folk music and dance, whose voices echo far and wide across the tranquil desert sand.
It was bestowed upon Balban as his jagir in 1242. Sher Shah captured Nagaur in 1542 A.D. Nagaur was a sarkar of Ajmer subah during Sur empire and later in Mughal empire. Emperor Akbar built the mosque here, and there is a shrine of the disciple of Mu'inuddin Chishti of Ajmer.
Badal Mahal, Sheesh Mahal & Hadi Rani Mahal are worth seeing. All three have exquisite 18th century frescos on the ceilings. There is also fascinating medieval air cooling system and an ornate old hammam, or bath.
