Infinite mounds of fine sand, large stretches of parched lands, scanty greenery, endless mirages with hamlets of mud houses, around scattered water bodies. Isn’t this the imagery one recollects upon hearing the word ‘desert’?
Added to this imagery are the exquisite and exotic palaces of the royals, locals wearing colourful turbans called ‘pagri’, cuisines curated around the sweltering heat and scanty rainfall, and the towns, cities adorned with vibrant handicrafts. A combination of all these and more is what the colourful state of Rajasthan in India all about!
First Impressions
My journey and subsequent five long years of stay in this wonderful state started off on a shocking note, as I was used to greenery all around. From the verdant lands of Punjab, as we drove down on the ‘smooth-as-butter roads’, we could only see a large expanse of glittering golden sand, all around us. The swirling dust storm, the scorching heat, and the beautiful hamlets welcomed us into this desert state.
The soil of this land has been home to the gallant clan of Rajputs and been a silent witness to all the battles and uprisings in the name of- ‘Pride, Valour, and Throne’. Rajasthanis come across as unabashed, yet, friendly and warm people. If one wants to learn about happy minimalist survival and celebration of life, then Rajasthan is the state to visit.
The cuisines, the costumes, the everyday activities – are all adapted to the extreme climatic conditions and the availability of water across this Desert State.
The Hues….
Here are some photo shots captured across the Thar Desert, from North to the Southern-most parts of Rajasthan. These photos narrate their own tales!
The Pink City
The Blue City
Pokhran
Thar Desert
Nakoda
Jaisalmer
Barmer
Vibrant colours
Traditional dance forms
Colourful threads
Hope you enjoyed the different hues of Rajasthan, through my captures.If you are feeling Have fun, till we embark on another journey to another place as part of this trail across ‘Vibrant India’.
I haven’t visited the places yet and these pictures want me to take the next train here. Sigh
lovely introduction to Rajasthan!
Your pictures are a treat! My Mum is a Rajasthani and would be so happy to see how beautifully you’ve presented her home:)
I loved all the pictures and I adore Rajasthan.The palaces and colours and jewellery. Everything is beautiful
Wah ! You have captured Rajasthan in a photo blog perfectly but what about the hot and spicy food ?
Rajasthan is so colorful and fascinating.