IRASTHAN
Rajasthan through eyes of Ira
IRA | 24th December, 2017
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The Prodigious Fort Of Kumbhalgarh
If you’re in the mood to witness mind-intriguing and sense-teasing folk music and dance performances seasoned in true Rajasthani soupéon, head to the revered Kumbhalgarh Festival. Set in the beautiful fortress of Kumbhalgarh atop the Aravallis, and augmented by the fantastic backdrop of countryside, you can enjoy an incredible series of events during the festival. Crowning the hilltop of one of the highest ranges of the Aravall at 1100 meters, the Kumbhalgarh Fort has a great many things in its repertoire - history, the world’s second longest wall, Hindu and Jain temples, vistas to enchant and behold! From its sequestered location and grandiosity, to its history and architecture, every detail of the fort catches the eye. Take a walk in it just before dusk, and see the subsiding rays of the sun scintillate the fortress, and create a picture-perfect canvas that is absolutely surreal. The Architectural Nitty-Gritties : One of the classic forts in Rajasthan, Kumbhalgarh Fort is among the largest wall complexes in the world, and a World Heritage Site. The fort is famous for its mammoth bastion walls and imposing ramparts spanning over 36 kms. Its wall runs through the surrounding mountain cliffs of the Aravali range, and is a prodigious example of architecture brilliance of the Rajput Era. What’s even more intriguing is the width of the wall which varies from 15 to 25 feet, and it is believed that the eight horses could run on this wall side-by-side! Surrounded by 13 mountain peaks, secured by 7 massive gates and 7 ramparts, and strengthened by rounded bastions and immense watchtowers, Kumbhalgarh is a true manifestation of a ‘fort’. History & Heritage of Kumbhalgarh Fort : Located in the Rajsamand District of Rajasthan, the Kumbhalgarh Fort was built during the 15th century by Rana Kumbha, and was aggrandized during the 19th century. This fort is also the birthplace of Maharana Pratap, the great Rajput King and warrior. While the fort was occupied until the late 19th century, it is now open to visitors, and every day after sunset a light and sound show is organized here. Also, every year during winters, an annual festival known as the Kumbhalgarh Festival is organized to promote tourism in Kumbhalgarh.
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The Kumbhalgarh Festival
A three-day festival organized by the Department Of Tourism of Rajasthan, the Kumbhalgarh Festival is arranged to promote the history and heritage of Rajasthan, and the heritage destination of Kumbhalgarh. The festival spans day and night, and encompasses folk performances by veteran artists and competitions like turban tying and puppetry shows. This day-night festival is a haven for the connoisseurs of art, music and dance, bringing together India’s finest classical musicians and dancers to perform on an illustrious podium, creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience of recreation and entertainment for its attendees. What makes this Festival a must-visit? Instead of listing it down, let’s eulogize! Witness the multi-hued culture of Rajasthan during the festival at the majestic Kumbhalgarh Fort. Marvel at its size and stature, for the fort looks stunning in the day, as well as in the evenings when illuminated in yellow lights. Enjoy the wonderful music and dance performances as you discover new secrets of this magical monument. The dance performances include Indian classical dance forms like Odissi, Bharatnatyam and Rajasthani folk. Festival highlights also include performances like Kalbeliyas, Langas, Terahtaali and Kachchi Ghodi, to name a few – and lest I forget, be prepared to get in on the act as the performers invite audiences to join in and perform!
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Keep these Five Things in Mind
Keep these Five Things in Mind: …and your trip shall be easy yet enjoyable. The date of the festival are fized from 1st to 3rd December every year. Kumbhalgarh is accessible by air, road and railways. Udaipur Airport is the closest at a distance of 98 kilometers, and is a 2 hour drive from Kumbhalgarh. The fort can be quite a climb, so be prepared. However, you need not worry about food and beverages, as there are food stalls on the road to the fort. There are many decent hotels available as well, including Hotel Ramada, The Dera, Club Mahindra, etc. Internet addicts alert! The internet connectivity is not that great, so bask in the historical glory and musical extravaganza while enjoying an off-the-grid experience at Kumbhalgarh Festival!