Abhaneri Festival 2023 – A Celebration Inside the Step-Well
Abhaneri Festival focuses on expressing cultural elements of the tribe and locals. This is the festival for live cultural entertainment, adventure activities, shopping and much more. Every second of this festival is dedicated to expressing the cultural and traditional value of the land.
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Now, let’s get deeper into Abhaneri festival.
History of Abhaneri Festival
Abhaneri village is thriving despite its minuscule size, since 9th century. It had great value in terms of historic elements and social beauty. This is very clear, thanks to the sculptures and structures of ancient times. The main element of all is the step well, which holds more than 2500 steps, built in perfect symmetry. One need to descend 20 m to reach the bottom of the well. The wells were built in a strategic manner to store as much water as possible during monsoon and to serve as a public arena for womenfolk to enjoy, during summer season. Indication of this festival can be found in many historic monuments, which were built thousands of years ago. Some believe that the festival welcomes monsoon.
Also Read: A Brief about Rajasthan
Where Abhaneri Festival is Celebrated?
Abhaneri Festival is celebrated in Dausa district of Rajasthan. The festival is focused in Abhaneri village. The main celebration takes place in Chand Boari step-well, which is very closer to Harshad Mata temple. Abhaneri village is located 90 km away from Jaipur, in the direction towards Agra. It is easier to reach Abhaneri, by reaching Jaipur first and then choosing any local transportation to reach Abhaneri. While you are at Jaipur, do not miss the new leopard safari. You can find many government buses from Bikaner, Jaipur, Alwar, Agra and others. The nearest railway station is located in Bandikui, which is 8 km away from Abhaneri village.
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Also Read: Famous Festivals and Events in Rajasthan
When Abhaneri Festival will be Celebrated
Abhaneri festival is celebrated for 2-4 days (changes every year), once a year. It is usually celebrated in September or October.
In 2023 – 16th & 17th October (source)
The festival is celebrated from 10 in the morning until 5 in the evening.
Things to Enjoy in Abhaneri Festival
Do not get claustrophobia because of the word ‘step-well’. These step-wells were used by royals and locals to hangout. Therefore, it would be more glamorous than any monuments you can find in the locality. The festival adds more vibrancy and color to the place. Numerous attractions are available to tourists to enjoy.
1. Kalbelia Dance
This is also called as snake-charmer dance. It is performed by the tribes of Rajasthan. This traditional dance is famous for sensuous dance movies and rhythmic beats. The dance dress used by the dancers is very vivid and unique.
Must Read: 13 Most Popular Folk Music and Dance of Rajasthan
2. Langa Singing
Manganiyars community singers contribute this traditional song performance. The lyrics of this song conveys stories about famous kings and queens of India and other countries. Before starting the performance, the singers seek blessing of Lord Krishna.
Read Also: Top 10 Colourful Markets in Rajasthan
3. Kachhi Ghodi Dance
This is the famous folk performance of Rajasthan. It is a dummy horse dance. The male dancers carry a dummy horse around their hip to look like they are riding horses. They carry real swords in their hand to perform rhythmic moves. It is a heroic styled dance, which is performed by Bavaria bandits of Shekhawati region. The music for this dance is primarily of drums. The dancers even perform with fire and other daredevil elements.
4. Bhawai Dance
This folk dance style is linked with Bhawai community. The women dancers wear traditional dress and decorate themselves with silver articles. They perform twirling dance as they balance 7 or 9 earthen pots on their head, without any support.
5. Raas Leela
This is a dance-cum drama performance presented by tribes and locals. These drama performances are famous for unique and delicate props. Mostly, these dramas are focused on explaining the life of Lord Krishna and Radha. You can also enjoy traditional music along with the drama.
6. Puppet Show
When was the last time you enjoyed puppets? Well, at this festival, you can enjoy it with a cultural upbeat. You can enjoy intricate puppet shows explaining interesting stories, with unbelievable movies and gestures. Some even buy wooden puppet toys as souvenirs. Do you want to add more village elements to your vacation? Choose from our heritage special tour packages like,
7. Art and Craft Exhibition
The festival is not just about performance arts. You can enjoy art and craft works of the tribe and locals. This is the best place to shop for unique and authentic handicrafts. Since you are eliminating the middleman and choosing to shop from the artisans, you can save considerably. The place where the exhibition takes place will be decorated with rangolis, flowers and much more.
Also Read: Top 10 Colorful Markets of Rajasthan
8. Camel Cart Rides
What is a Rajasthan tour without camels? You can enjoy camel safari in decorated camel carts, which will take you around the village and through the festival area. Some enjoy village safari on foot too.
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Do you want to know more about traveling in luxury trains?
Read More: How to Explore Rajasthan by Luxury Trains.
Read Know What Every Traveller Does in Rajasthan to know what to expect during your vacation in Rajasthan.
Other Festivals to Enjoy in Rajasthan
- Marwar Festival of Jodhpur
- Rajasthan International Folk Festival, Jodhpur
- Mewar Festival
- Pushkar Camel Fair - World's Largest Fair
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