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Place
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Tithi
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Next
Dates
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JAIPUR
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Phalgun-S
15
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28
March 2002
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17
March 2003
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India
is the original homeland of the Asiatic Elephant. It’s association
with the gods and king goes back to the dawn of history. India
the King of Gods, rides on a white elephant, Airavata. The
elephant is also associated with the Lord Buddha, and Jainism.
The colossal size of the animal evokes awe but its docile
nature, its graceful movements and its doleful eyes have always
fascinated man. It’s majestic presence has been associated
with regal splendor and the elephant has always remained as
the most important paraphernalia of the king.
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Jewelled Procession
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Decorated Howdah
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Jaipur
has a long colorful association with elephants. Huge mountain-like
male elephant chosen for their size and beauty of trunk,
tusks tail and ears, were procured for the exclusive use
of the Maharaja. In royal processions the Maharaja sat on
a gold and silver ‘howda’ placed on the back of the most
favorite elephant. Scores of others tastefully decorated
with dazzling ornaments and gold embroidered velvet Jhalars
followed the royal elephant.
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There were deadly and fierce elephant-fights in the Chaugan
of polo-field, the venue of the Elephant Festival. Rajasthan
Tourism revived the tradition by including the Elephant
Festival in the cultural calendar. During Holi, the festival
of Colors, to herald the advent of Spring, the Jaipur Chaugan
is brought alive with elephants, dancers, musicians and
onlookers from all the globe. The Festival starts with an
impressive procession of the majestic animals lovingly painted
and tastefully attired with glittering ornaments and embroidered velvets.
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Scintillating Colours
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Jubilant
Integration |
They
greet the visitors, offer garlands to the guests and walk
past the ramp before a jury of experts and tourists to select
the best amongst them for the ‘Best
decorated Elephant’ Shield! Witness a game of elephant
polo a newly-introduced sport. Though they lack the speed
and ability of the polo ponies it is great fun to watch
the enormous pachyderms moving around the field after the
ball in great speed.
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To get a feel of their true strength join your hands with
the ten add people in the tug-of-war with the largest elephant.
Then there is the unique ‘Gaj Shringar’ exhibition displaying
everything connected with the elephant-ornaments, textiles
(Jhoo) parapernalic howdahs and carriages, paintings medicines
and food.
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Tug-Of-war
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Dazzling
Procession |
A
program of Dhaph and Gair dance to demonstrate the spirit
of Holi and a dazzling display of fireworks complete the
day leaving unforgettable memories. Come! Celebrate! You
are most cordially welcome to the Elephant Festival.
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