Camel Mela Pushkar

  • Elisa Garcia-Huidobro
Every year, during the first days of November, in the holy city of Pushkar in the state of Rajasthan India, takes place the largest Camel fair in the world, known as Pushkar Fair or "Ka Pushkar Mela ".
Pushkar is one of the five places of pilgrimage in the Hindu religion and
one of the oldest Indian cities. Its origin is based on the myth lotus flower and is attributed to Brahma.
The scenery is absolutely breathtaking, mystical and religious.
The valleys of this city are perfect to develop fair, It held for five days, ending at the full moon "Kartik Poornima ", the most important day of the fair.
Gradually the desert begins to fill with breeders, camels, tourists and traders that have traveled thousands of kilometers to display and market their products.
The setting is surreal, with magnificent colors and a constant buzz
but cozy; men, women and children of various Indian tribes are installed
in tents to prepare their camels before selling.
Gradually the valley fills with camels, reaching about 12,000. Despite camels being the main target, you can also see horses, cows and some decide to sell crafts and objects as harnesses or collars, to decorate the animals.
Trade and activity begins early in the morning, which makes it worthwhile incessant to visit the show early.
It is a perfect backdrop to capture the daily lives of men and their colorful turbans, women doing their chores, children and their contagious happiness, themusicians, among many other characters. Finally everything finishes in the full moon party where crowds bathe in the lake of the city, around the candles and hymns.
Pushkar Fair is simply a unique spectacle that it is worth witnessing.