Diwali, the festival of lights, is the most popular of all the festivals in Rajasthan and is celebrated every year with pomp n show and lavishly. After Teej festival which completes the religious cycle in three days, Deepawali takes five days to conclude.
In Rajasthan it starts with Dhanteras and ends with Bhai dooj. The festival includes Choti Diwali, Badi Diwali and Padwa. There are many different stories for these days of Diwali but the main colorful and eventful day is called Bari Diwali which symbolizes a winning day and willpower of mankind to defeat the darkness.
In a way it celebrates the victory of goodness over evil, light over darkness and ushers in the New Year. It is an occasion for celebrations by one and all irrespective of caste and religion.
There are various legends and stories about the Diwali festival. Goddess of wealth, light, prosperity and wisdom is worshipped and also Lord Ganesha, the 'Remover of Obstacles' or the 'Lord of Beginnings.
Interestingly department of tourism also showcases this cultural and religious event in big way like this time it has organized two days grand festival Deepotsava with fanfare against the backdrop of the spectacular Jal Mahal.
The occasion of traditional festival of lights at the Jal Mahal Ki Paal was thrilling with the spectacular presentation by the top professional artistes of the state. The tourists as well as the local populace witnessed a mélange of colorful folk performances.
On the occasion the Jal Mahal Ki Paal was decorated in traditional Rajasthani style, hangings, buntings, rangolis, mandanas, flowers, decorative illumination among others. A large number of lamps and candles lit up the area in festive mood.
Further more, colourful and vibrant performances by the folk artists of Rajasthan added to the festivities on both the days. Among the dances there were Kalbeliya, Chakri and Chari. The langas also sang with gusto while the bhapang and Algoza performances delighted the tourist.
Like all the century old festivals, Pink city celebrates Diwali with great enthusiasm and gaiety. The entire city was beautifully decorated in traditional style, highlighting heritage and culture of the State at its best.
