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Foreign Tourists Revel in Jaisalmer's Royal Holi, Ujjain Temple Holds Divine Bhasma Aarti

Foreign tourists are flocking to Jaisalmer, actively participating in its royal Holi traditions by joining processions and buying colors. The celebrations, centered around historic temples and public squares, create a vibrant cross-cultural atmosphere. Simultaneously, Ujjain's Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple celebrated Holi with an early morning Bhasma Aarti, where the deity was adorned with bhang and dry fruits. The massive influx of visitors reinforces Jaisalmer's position as a premier global destination for cultural tourism.

Key Points: Holi 2024: Foreign Tourists Celebrate in Jaisalmer, Ujjain Temple Rituals

  • Foreign tourists actively participate in Jaisalmer's Holi
  • Celebrations feature traditional Gair processions
  • Ujjain's Mahakaleshwar Temple holds special Bhasma Aarti
  • Deity adorned with bhang and dry fruits
  • Event cements Jaisalmer's global cultural tourism status
3 min read

Foreign tourists immerse themselves in the colours of Holi in Jaisalmer

Foreign tourists immerse in Jaisalmer's traditional Holi, while Ujjain's Mahakaleshwar Temple celebrates with a unique Bhasma Aarti and bhang offerings.

"The enthusiasm is infectious - Local Observer"

Jaisalmer, March 3

The world-famous Golden City of Jaisalmer has transformed into a vibrant mosaic of colours. Foreign tourists arriving in the city for Holi are not only enjoying the local sightseeing spots but are also deeply immersed in its festive spirit. Tourists are drenched in the vibrant colours of Jaisalmer, often referred to as Krishna Nagari, which continues to uphold its princely-era traditions. The celebrations are centred around historic temples and public squares, where traditional Gair are being organised. Despite the language barrier, foreign tourists are enthusiastically joining these processions, dancing to local chants and contributing to a spectacular atmosphere of cross-cultural joy.

The allure of the Golden City's unique heritage has drawn an exceptionally high number of international groups this year. These travellers are not merely spectators; they are active participants, seen navigating local markets to purchase water guns (pichkaris) and colours to join the revelry. A tourist from France said it's very good to be here, to see the tradition of India, she has not seen such festivals in her country. Another tourist from France said it's a very unique festival; he didn't know such festivals existed.

Local observers said that the magic of Jaisalmer's royal Holi traditions has bridged the gap between countries. "The enthusiasm is infectious," one local remarked, as tourists from across the 'seven seas' jump and celebrate with the same enthusiasm as if it were a festival from their own homeland. This massive influx of domestic and international visitors once again cements Jaisalmer's reputation as a premier global destination for cultural tourism.

Meanwhile, The world-famous Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain celebrated Holi festival during the early morning Bhasma Aarti, with the sanctum sanctorum drenched in gulal and Lord Mahakal adorned with bhang (cannabis) and dry fruits in a divine decoration.

The temple gates were opened at 4 AM during the Bhasma Aarti. After performing abhishekam (ritual bathing) of Lord Mahakal with water, the deity was worshipped with Panchamrit made from milk, curd, ghee, sugar and fresh fruit juices.Specially for the occasion, abhishekam was performed with Vijaya (bhang) and saffron-infused water.

Lord Mahakal was divinely adorned with bhang, sandalwood and dry fruits. Priests and pujaris celebrated Holi with the deity, during which gulal was showered in the sanctum sanctorum.Devotees who attended the Bhasma Aarti appeared immersed in the colors of gulal and devotion.Bhog (sacred offering) of fruits and sweets was offered to Baba Mahakal.

A large number of devotees who reached the Bhasma Aarti sought the blessings of Lord Mahakal. On behalf of the Mahanirvani Akhara, sacred ash (bhasma) was offered to Lord Mahakal.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Jaisalmer during Holi is a different vibe altogether. The Gair processions and the atmosphere around the havelis and temples is magical. Glad the world is getting to experience our Rajputana traditions.
D
David E
As someone who visited India last year, I can say the energy during Holi is incredible. It's more than just colours; it's the music, the food, the sheer happiness. Articles like this make me want to book a ticket to Jaisalmer for next year!
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Aman W
While it's great for tourism, I hope the essence of the festival isn't diluted for commercial purposes. The spiritual significance, especially as described in the Ujjain temple rituals with Bhasma Aarti, is the true core of Holi.
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Shreya B
The description of Mahakaleshwar temple is so divine. Holi at such ancient temples is a profoundly spiritual experience, very different from the public play. Both aspects together show the beautiful diversity of how we celebrate. Jai Mahakal! 🙏
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Vikram M
This is excellent for our soft power. When tourists go back and share their experiences, it builds a positive image of India far more effectively than any official campaign. More power to our hospitality and our vibrant culture!

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