For a devout Hindu Pushkar is a very
important pilgrim centre, for one visit to this holy place in a lifetime is
highly prescribed. Brahma forms the great Hindu trilogy of Brahma, Vishnu and
Shiva, each symbolising the lifecycle of birth, preservation and destruction.
Brahma the creator is depicted as of four bearded heads and four hands each
holding a book of Vedas (knowledge). His vehicle is the swan and his consort
is Savitri.
According to the legend Pushkar means a pond created by flower, was formed when
Brahma dropped a lotus flower on the earth to determine a place for his yagna,
a holy sacrifice. The story goes that Brahma wanted to perform the yagna at
the most auspicious time but his consort Savitri whose presence at the yagna
was vital for its performance kept him waiting. Irritated by this Brahma married
Gayatri, a milkmaid and installed her instead.
Savitri on seeing someone else in her place was infuriated and cursed Brahma
that he would be forgotten by people on earth and never worshiped. She relented
on pleas from other Gods that he could only be worshiped in Pushkar, hence there
are no Brahma Temples elsewhere.
Pushkar is a much loved tourist destination, many who visit there just fall
in love with the place and overstay. Situated on the edge on the desert it is
separated from Ajmer by the Nag Parbat (the snake hill). The town has very distinct
tourist excitement with narrow lanes lined with shops selling various accessories
and rooftop restaurants. Despite its high tourist profile the town maintains
some mystical charm.
Pushkar is world famous for its cattle fair normally held in the Hindu month
Kartika, which is around Oct-November. At this time the town jam-packed with
tribal people from all over Rajasthan and tourist. It is commonly known as Camel
fair, bringing with them several camels and cattle to the pilgrimage. A Fair
ground is fashioned and is packed with shops selling souvenirs and eateries.
Games and circus shows also goes on. And villagers come sell camels, horses,
elephants and cattle and other livestock. Elaborate arrangement for staying
of visitors is made including luxury tents. Just don’t miss the Pushkar
Fair if you are India around that time.
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