About Rajasthan

Rajasthan - The "Land of Kings" is India's most colorful and exotic state. Home of the Rajputs - the brave warrior clans, this land of royalty is known for its vibrant colors and cities that are will guarded by magnificent forts and palaces. Much of Rajasthan is barren desert, but the vibrancy of every day life coupled with legends that abound with heroism and romance and its exotic atmosphere replete with men sporting huge pastel colored turban and women with their sparkling mirrored skirts and funky jewelry worn from head to toe makes for a truly amazing touristy experience.

Of course, the very mention of Rajasthan evokes images of the sturdy Rajput warriors who have ruled this part of India for a full thousand years. Most cities and towns of Rajasthan are dotted with magnificent forts and palaces of amazing grandeur that reflects the regal romance of the Rajputs with this desert land. Most Rajasthan palaces have an intrinsic element of honor and bravery engraved in them, which is reflected through the interior designing, wall paintings and frescoes.

Geographically, Rajasthan has two primary geographical divisions - the hilly and the rugged south-east region and the barren north-eastern desert which extends all the way to neighboring Pakistan.

Much of Rajasthan being desert, the people of Rajasthan try to overcome the monotony of the desolate landscape by wearing unbelievably stunning colorful costumes. Be it the Queen or the simple nomadic woman, the splash of bright colors are amply evident. Men are not too far behind with their colorful turbans and dazzling ear studs.

The women of Rajasthan are well known for their beauty and elegance. Legend has it that rulers even fought wars to win their cherished lovers. Gayatri Devi, the Rajmata of Jaipur in her heyday was regarded as one of the most beautiful women in the world.

One of Rajasthan's most significant contributions to the Indian economy has been its spirit of entrepreneurship. Marwaris of Rajasthan have carved a niche for themselves as shrewd businessmen who make millions of rupees by their sense of entrepreneurship. The quintessential Marwari businessmen can be found everywhere in India from Kashmir to Kanya Kumari and from Gujarat to Assam.

Rajasthani people, like the rest of India, have strong spiritual inclinations and one can find all the major religions in Rajasthan. Apart from Hinduism, Rajasthan has Jains, Muslims, Sikhs and Christians. Place of pilgrimage like Pushkar, Nathdwara, Deshnok etc are must visit pilgrim centers. The followers of Jainisim have a galaxy of temples which are spread in places like Mount Abu, Ranakpur, Shree Mahaveerji, Jaisalmer and Chittorgarh. Muslim shrines like Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti at Ajmer, Atarki Dargah and the tomb of Hamiuddin are all much-preferred pilgrim centers for the Muslims.