Bagore-Ki-Haveli (A Royal Edifice Restored to its Pristine Glory)

Back of the Book THE GANGAUR FESTIVAL The three arched Tripolia Gate leads out onto Gangaur Ghat, where the annual procession through the city of Udaipur culminates. On this important festive occasion in April (Chaitra) every year, the Maharana and the citizens of Udaipur congregate to celebrate and witness the Gangaur Festival with great enthusiasm. The Maharana arrives in the royal barge in a boat procession, while the general public packs the Gangaur Ghat and nearby streets; with spectators filling every window, balcony, rooftop and terrace along the way.

The Gangaur festival is dedicated to Gauri, a manifestation of Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva and symbol of conjugal bliss and marital happiness. Women make various ornaments out of gram flour for decorating the images of Isar and Gauri, which are so beautiful that they appear like real gold. Groups of women dressed in hues of scarlet, yellow, green & purple can be seen carrying images in a procession to the Gangaur Ghat of Lake Pichola. Brilliantly clad women fill the area between the Tripolia to the steps of the ghat, amidst the fragrance of roses and jasmine.

**Contents and Sample Pages**