Life in Jaipur

Jaipur, the majestic and colourful city of forts and palaces has an affluent heritage. Exuberance is the only word to describe the life in this magnificent land of fairs, festivals, lively bazaars, folk dances, camel races, and lots more. The city is like an oasis amidst stony hills and arid areas. The broad avenues, spacious lush gardens with their romantic charm are features unique to Jaipur.

Jaipur is imbued in history and culture. The great warriors of all time - 'Rajputs' or 'Rajaputras'- who prefer death to dishonour are from this brave land, though now they are lost behind the mists of myths and legends.

Festivals and fairs are an integral part in the day-to-day life of the people in Jaipur. The various communities in Jaipur like Rajputs, Meenas, Bhils, Jats, Bishonis, Marwaris and Jains have their own customs and festivals. Combination of all these traditions and cultures give an unique flavour to the vibrant life in the city. Some of the major festivals in Jaipur are Pushkar - the camel festival, Ganguar - the spring festival, Teej - the monsoon festival and Dussehra - the autumn festival.

The Bazars are famous for exquisite Meenakari jewellery made with laquer, gold and precious stones, intricate hand blocked printed cloths, paintings, leather works, hand made pottery, metal ware and so on. The important markets in Jaipur are Johari Bazar, Moti Doon (Pearl Hill), Chandi ki Taksal (Silver Mint), and Manak Chowk (Ruby Square).

Polo, the exciting royal game of racing horses and gallant riders is one of the major sports in Rajasthan. Another kind of unique polo - played from the elephant's back is the speciality here.

The streets in Jaipur are crammed with camel carts, men in huge red and blue turbans and women in bright pinks, yellows, oranges and reds with nose rings and junk jewellery. One can also see the sophisticated cars and camel carts flowing in concurrence all the way through. The harmony of life in between all this diversified culture makes this royal city unique.

Believe me, visit this city of treasures, it's an experience of a lifetime.

By :Smitha Paulson