Journey into the golden city
“The desert sands are scorching hot, Yet, do not slacken your pace, Sassui;
Follow the footprints of the beloved, For the wilderness itself will guide the seeker”.
Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai
The hereditary folk musicians of the Thar desert (the Manganiyar and Langha communities) view the desert not as an empty space, but as a living canvas of sound…
The Jaisalmer Desert Festival (also known as Maru Mahotsav) is set against the brilliant backdrop of the Thar Desert, this vibrant three-day cultural extravaganza transforms the "Golden City" into an explosion of colour, Rajasthani folk music, and unique desert traditions.
In Jaisalmer where golden sands softly gleam.
The desert dances like a timeless dream.
Beneath the fort of honey coloured stone,
A thousand stories live in every tone.
words by: Folk music of Rajasthan
The winds of Thar carry melodies afar,
Like whispers traveling beneath each star.
The dunes may seem silent to wandering eyes,
Yet music awakens when the desert sighs.
The festival commences with a huge ceremonial street parade through the city, known locally as Shobha Yatra.
Men carrying swords atop camels from different clans arrive at the Shahid Poonam Singh stadium, where several contests get under way.
One of them for 'Mr Desert' where men are judged on their traditional attire, their turbans and most importantly their mustache!
Camel polo, and camel racing are some of the highlights of the varied competitions.
The Manganiyar artists sing with soulful grace,
Keeping ancient memories alive in every place.
Their kamaicha weeps, their khartal speaks,
Telling tales of kings, of warriors, and desert peaks.
The festival comes to an end on the third day when it coincides with the full moon, known as Poornima in Sanskrit. Families relax in the dunes, enjoying camel rides and chatter.
