Its like straight out of an Arabian
Nights fable. The name Jaisalmer induces a dramatic picture of utter magic and
brilliance of the desert. The hostile terrain not with standing the warmth and
colour of people is simply over whelming. One of the main draws is the daunting
12th century Jaisalmer Fort. The beautiful havelis which were built by wealthy
merchants of Jaisalmer are yet another interesting aspect of the desert city.
And you can let your eyes caress the sloppy sand dunes while you ramble your
way in a camel safari. The desert citadel is truly a golden fantasy in Thar
Desert. Bhatti Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal, after whom the city finds its name,
founded Jaisalmer in 1156. On advice of a local hermit Eesaal he chose the Tricut
Hills as his new abode abandoning his vulnerable old fort at Luderwa just 15
kilometres northwest. In Medieval times, its prosperity was due to its location
on the main trade route linking India to Egypt, Arabia, Persia, Africa and the
West. The Bhatti Rajput rulers lined their coffer with gains from traditional
taxes and cess on passing by caravans and sometimes through illicit gains by
rustling cattle.
Over the years the remote location of Jaisalmer kept it almost untouched by
outside influences. In the 13th century Ala-ud-din Khilji Emperor of Delhi besieged
the fort for nine years in an effort to take back the treasure taken by the
Bhatti Rajput from his imperial caravan train. When the fall of the fort was
imminent the women of the fort committed Jauhar, an act of mass self-immolation,
while men donned saffron robes and rode to their certain death.
Duda son of Jaitasimha, a Bhatti hero also perished in the battle. Dudas descendants
continued to rule Jaisalmer. In 1541 they even fought Mughal Emperor Himayun.
Though their relations with Mugshal was not always hostile. Sabala Simha won
the patronage of Mughal Emperor Shaha Jahan for battle distinctions in Peshawar
and the right to rule Jaisalmer. In the days of Raj, Jaisalmer was the last
to sign the Instrument of Agreement with the British. Ages have gone by and
the monuments of Jaisalmer have withstood the buffeting winds of the desert
all through.
Jaisalmer is a marvel of beautiful culture and harsh climatic conditions, together
amounting to a memorable experience. The old city was completely encircled by
wall but much of it is now pulled down sadly for want of building material in
recent years. The massive golden fort, which is the essence of Jaisalmer, is
entered through First Gate. Is a burrow of narrow streets complete with Jain
Temples and old palaces. The main market the Bhatia Market is right below the
hill. The bank, offices and several shops are also located near the Amar Sagar
Gate to the west.
Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert like a golden mirage is the city of
Jaisalmer. A commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone stands with all its
awesome splendor, dominating the amber-hued city.
The city has an interesting legend associated with it, according to which, lord
Krishna- the head of Yadav clan foretold Arjuna that a remote descendent of
the Yadav clan would build his kingdom atop the Trikuta Hill, His prophecy was
fulfilled in 1156AD.
When Rawal Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput abandoned his fort at Lodurva and founded
a new capital Jaisalmer, perched on the Trikuta Hill Bhatti Rajputs of Jaisalmer
were fedual chief who lived off the forced levy on the caravans laden with precious
silks and spices that crossed the territory enroute Delhi-or Sind. These seems
to be straight out of the "Tales of the Arabian Night ' still enchants.
The life within the citadel conjures up images of medieval majesty visible in
its narrow lanes strewn with magnificent palaces, havelis, temples and of course
skilled artisans and ubiquitous camels. the setting turn Jaisalmer into a beautiful
golden brown is a spectacular sight.
The perfect time to visit the golden city is during the Desert Festival held
in Jan/Feb. every year, when the city reverberates to the sound of melodious
tunes and rhythms. Folk dances, exciting competitions and contest, especially
the turban raying contest.
Mr. Desert contest and camel races enliven the festivals colorful craft bazars
are setup for the occasion and a sound and light spectacle is organized with
folk artistes performing against the spledid backdrop of the famous sam sand
dunes on the full moon night. Surely a not-to-be-missed events.
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