Bundi Utsav
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| Bundi Utsav बूंदी उत्सव | |
|---|---|
 Folk Dance in Bundi Utsav | |
| Status | active |
| Genre | fair, public gathering |
| Begins | 1996 |
| Frequency | annually |
| Venue | Taragarh Fort, Bundi, Jait Sagar Lake, Nawal Sagar Lake, Raniji ki Baori, Chaurasi Khambon ki Chhatri, Bundi |
| Locations | Bundi, Rajasthan |
| Country | India |
| Years active | 24 |
| Previous event | 2023 |
| Next event | 2024 |
| Organised by | Department of Tourism, Rajasthan |
| Sponsors | Government of Rajasthan |
| Website | https://utsav.gov.in/view-event/bundi-festival-1 |
Bundi Utsav, or Bundi Festival, is an annual cultural and tourism festival celebrated in the city of Bundi, located in the Hadoti region of Rajasthan, India.[1] The festival showcases the Rajasthan and Bundi's cultural heritage, traditional art, and historical significance.[2] It typically takes place in November, during the Hindu calendar month of Kartika, and lasts three days. The festival is known to attract both domestic and international tourists.[3]
Initial preparations for Bundi Utsav began in 1995, with significant public input, and the first annual festival was held the following year. The festival was conceived by Bundi District Head Rajmata Daulat Kanwar Ji (who held the role between 1995 and 2000 on behalf of the BJP) and Bundi District Collector Madhukar Ji Gupta, perceiving it as a means to deepen the connection of local residents to their heritage. Bundi Utsav has gained popularity over the years, arguably becoming one of the most anticipated events in Rajasthan's cultural calendar.[4]
The festival was cancelled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[5]
Festival Activities
Bundi Utsav offers an array of cultural events and activities, aiming to provide attendees with a glimpse into the region's varied cultural tapestry.[6]
Cultural processions
Processions take place in the streets of Bundi, and are noted by many attendees for their colourful decorations. They feature elaborately decorated camels, horses and elephants adorned with traditional attire and accessories. These processions are intended to celebrate the historical regal heritage of Rajasthan and contribute to a festive atmosphere. The procession commences with worship of Lord Ganesha at the Taragarh Fort in Bundi city.[7][5]
Crafts bazaar
A marketplace is set up during the festival, offering a wide range of handcrafted items, textiles, jewelry, and pottery. It is held at the Government Senior Secondary School in Bundi. Visitors have the opportunity to purchase locally-made Rajasthani handicrafts and interact with artisans.[8]
Cultural performances
The festival features captivating performances of traditional Rajasthani folk music, dance, and theater at the Chaurasi Khambon ki Chhatri in Bundi city. Performances are given by local artists who aim to showcase their talent at gatherings known for their vibrant atmosphere.[5]
Rajasthani cuisine
The festival includes stalls that showcase the local Rajasthani cuisine, including traditional dishes such as Katt Bafla, gatte ki sabzi, Danamethi ki Sabzi, and Kadke.[9][10]
Tourist activities
In addition to the cultural festivities, Bundi Utsav also includes various tourist-oriented activities such as heritage walks, guided tours of historical monuments, and competitive activities such as tug-of-war, a mustache competition, a turban tying competition, a pot race, a horse race and a camel race.[11] On the last day of Bundi Utsav, a cultural safari is organised to educate foreign tourists about rural Indian culture. The "village safari" takes visitors to Theekarda village to acquiant them with the rural lifestyle, attire and culture.
Deepdaan
The festival includes Deepdan, an event during which earthen lamps are lit and set afloat on the waters of Nawal Sagar Lake, located in Bundi city. Deepdan has tended to draw thousands of citizens.[5]
Painting workshop
The festival includes a drawing and painting workshop also held at Sukh Mahal located on the banks of Jait Sagar Lake in the city of Bundi.[5]