Every year, after the festive season begins to slow down, there comes a quieter and more reflective period in the Hindu calendar — Pitru Paksha, also known as Shraddha Paksha.

In Rajasthan, this period has always felt different from other festivals to me. There are no grand celebrations or loud decorations. Instead, the focus turns towards remembering our ancestors, offering food and water, and following traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Growing up, I have seen Pitru Paksha at home not simply as a religious period, but as a time when the family remembers those who are no longer with us.

In 2026, the main Pitru Paksha period begins with Pratipada Shraddha on September 27 and ends with Sarva Pitru Amavasya on October 10. Purnima Shraddha falls on September 26, which is why some calendars may show September 26 as the beginning of the Shraddha period. It is useful to distinguish Purnima Shraddha from the main Krishna Paksha sequence.

What Is Pitru Paksha?

Pitru Paksha is a period traditionally dedicated to remembering and paying respect to departed ancestors.

The word Pitru refers to ancestors, while Shraddha is associated with performing rituals and offerings with faith and respect.

During these days, families perform Shraddha according to the tithi associated with the passing of an ancestor. Food, water and other offerings are made as part of these traditions.

The rituals can be different from one family to another. In Rajasthan, too, the way families observe Pitru Paksha can vary depending on their community, family tradition and local customs.

For me, the most meaningful part has always been the idea behind it — remembering the people who came before us and keeping their memories alive through simple family traditions.

Why Is It Called a 15-Day Shraddha Paksha?

Pitru Paksha is commonly described as a 15-day period of Shraddha.

The main sequence begins with Pratipada and continues through the lunar tithis until Amavasya. Different tithis are associated with Shraddha for ancestors who passed away on those particular dates.

In 2026, the main dates are:

September 26 is Purnima Shraddha, observed before the main Pitru Paksha sequence.

If you are observing a particular ancestor's Shraddha, the exact tithi is important, so it is best to follow your family tradition or consult your family priest.

What Happens During Pitru Paksha at My Home?

This is the part of Pitru Paksha that feels most personal to me.

Growing up, I have seen this period being observed at home in a very simple but meaningful way. On the day of Shraddha, the morning begins with a bath and preparations for the food that will be offered.

Food is prepared with care. In our family tradition, dishes such as kheer, malpua, mixed vegetable sabzi and puris are prepared.

There is something very different about cooking during Pitru Paksha. It is not just about preparing a meal for the family. There is a feeling that the food is first being prepared as an offering, with the memory of our ancestors in mind.

A kheer bhog is also offered, along with the traditional food prepared for the occasion.

After the offerings, a separate plate of food is kept on the rooftop for a crow.

In our traditional belief, the crow is associated with the ancestors, and when a crow comes and eats the food, it is considered a sign that the offering has been accepted by the Pitrs.

Of course, this is a religious and cultural belief, not something that can be scientifically established. But when you grow up seeing the same tradition being followed by your family, it becomes a deeply familiar part of the way you understand Pitru Paksha.

Why Is Food Offered to a Crow?

The crow has a special place in many Shraddha traditions.

Families traditionally offer food to a crow because it is believed to represent or carry the offering to the ancestors.

This is why you may see people waiting quietly after placing the food outside or on a rooftop.

For someone unfamiliar with the tradition, it may simply look like feeding a bird. But culturally, there is a deeper meaning attached to it — the food is being offered in remembrance of one's ancestors.

Feeding Brahmins and Offering Food

Another tradition I have seen during Shraddha is inviting Pandits or Brahmins for a meal after the offerings and rituals.

The food prepared for Shraddha is served respectfully, as part of the family's tradition of making offerings in memory of their ancestors.

In our family, sisters and daughters are also invited for food in the evening.

This is something I particularly remember because the thought behind it is beautiful — the belief that the food offered and eaten during the day should symbolically reach the ancestors through these acts of sharing and feeding.

These customs can differ between families, so there is no single way in which every household observes Pitru Paksha.

What Food Is Prepared During Pitru Paksha?

There is no universal menu for Shraddha because food traditions vary according to family and community.

In my experience, some of the traditional food prepared at home includes:

• Kheer

• Malpua

• Puri

• Mixed vegetable sabzi

• Other simple homemade dishes according to the family tradition

The important part is not the number of dishes but the feeling of offering and remembrance behind the meal.

The food is prepared with care, first offered as part of the Shraddha tradition and then shared with others.

What Is Pind Daan?

Pind Daan is another important ancestral ritual associated with Hindu traditions.

Pind refers to an offering, traditionally made using ingredients such as rice and other prescribed materials. It is offered as part of rituals performed for departed ancestors.

Pind Daan is especially associated with pilgrimage places such as Gaya, although ancestral rituals are also performed at other sacred places.

The exact rituals and procedures vary, so anyone planning Pind Daan should follow the guidance of their family priest or the priest at the pilgrimage site.

What Is Sarva Pitru Amavasya?

The final and especially significant day of Pitru Paksha is Sarva Pitru Amavasya, also known as Amavasya Shraddha.

In 2026, it falls on October 10.

It is traditionally considered an important day for offering Shraddha to ancestors.

For families who do not know the exact tithi of an ancestor's passing, Amavasya Shraddha has particular importance in traditional practice.

This is also the day when the Pitru Paksha period comes to an end.

Pitru Paksha in Rajasthan

Rajasthan has a strong tradition of family rituals, ancestral remembrance and temple culture, and Pitru Paksha naturally becomes part of this cultural landscape.

In Rajasthan and Mewar, these traditions are not limited to elaborate ceremonies. Much of what I have seen is actually very simple — preparing food at home, making offerings, feeding others and remembering family members who are no longer present.

That simplicity is what makes the period meaningful to me.

It reminds me that festivals are not always about celebration. Sometimes, they are about remembering.

What Should You Do During Pitru Paksha?

The exact practices depend on your family tradition, but commonly observed practices include:

• Performing Shraddha on the appropriate tithi

• Offering water to the ancestors

• Preparing traditional food as part of the ritual

• Offering food to a crow according to family tradition

• Feeding Brahmins or Pandits

• Sharing food with family members and others

• Performing Pind Daan where traditionally appropriate

• Remembering ancestors with respect and gratitude

Some families also keep their lifestyle particularly simple during this period.

There can be different rules regarding food, religious activities, purchases, ceremonies and auspicious events. These should not be treated as universal rules because customs vary considerably between families and communities.

Can You Start Something New During Pitru Paksha?

You may hear different opinions about starting new work, buying things, travelling, celebrations or other activities during Pitru Paksha.

Some families prefer to keep this period quiet and avoid certain auspicious ceremonies, while others follow their own traditions.

There is no need to treat every rule heard from others as applicable to every household. If something is important to your family, it is better to follow your family's established tradition or ask your family priest.

For me, the heart of Pitru Paksha has never been about fear or a long list of restrictions. It has been about respect, remembrance and feeding others in the name of our ancestors.

A Quiet Tradition I Have Grown Up With

When I think about Pitru Paksha, I don't first think about dates on a calendar.

I remember the preparations at home.

I remember waking up, taking a bath and seeing the food being prepared. Kheer, malpua, puris and sabzi would be made with care. The food would be offered, and a plate would be kept on the rooftop for the crow.

Then came the waiting.

The simple act of seeing a crow come and eat the food carried a meaning that I understood through the traditions of my family.

Later, Pandits or Brahmins would be served food, and in the evening, sisters and daughters would be invited to eat.

As a child, I may not have understood every ritual or its meaning. But growing up, I have come to understand that these traditions are one way families keep their connection with those who are no longer physically with them.

That is what makes Pitru Paksha personal for me.

It is not only about rituals. It is about remembering where we come from and the people whose lives became part of our family's story.

Pitru Paksha 2026: Important Dates at a Glance

• September 26, 2026 — Purnima Shraddha

• September 27, 2026 — Pratipada Shraddha

• September 28 — Dwitiya

• September 29 — Tritiya

• September 30 — Chaturthi

• October 1 — Panchami & Shashthi

• October 2 — Saptami

• October 3 — Ashtami

• October 4 — Navami

• October 5 — Dashami

• October 6 — Ekadashi

• October 7 — Dwadashi

• October 8 — Trayodashi

• October 9 — Chaturdashi

• October 10, 2026 — Sarva Pitru Amavasya

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Pitru Paksha begin in 2026?

The main Pitru Paksha sequence begins on September 27, 2026, with Pratipada Shraddha. Purnima Shraddha is observed on September 26.

When does Pitru Paksha end in 2026?

Pitru Paksha ends with Sarva Pitru Amavasya on October 10, 2026.

Why is Pitru Paksha observed?

It is observed as a period for remembering and paying respect to departed ancestors through Shraddha, offerings, food and other traditional rituals.

Why is a crow fed during Shraddha?

In traditional belief, the crow is associated with the ancestors, so offering food to a crow is considered part of the ancestral offering in many families.

What food is prepared during Pitru Paksha?

Food varies by family and community. In my family tradition, dishes such as kheer, malpua, puri and mixed vegetable sabzi are prepared.

Is Pind Daan compulsory for everyone?

No single ritual should be assumed to be compulsory for every family. Pind Daan and other practices depend on family tradition, local customs and the guidance followed by the family.

Can the exact Shraddha date vary?

Yes. Shraddha is traditionally connected with the tithi of an ancestor's passing, and local calendars and family traditions can affect how the observance is followed. For an exact ritual date and timing, check with your family priest.

Remembering Our Ancestors

Pitru Paksha arrives quietly.

There are no loud celebrations, no colourful decorations and no festive excitement like many other Hindu festivals.

Instead, there is food prepared with care, prayers, offerings, family traditions and memories.

For me, that is what makes these days meaningful.

The traditions I have seen at home — from preparing kheer and malpua to keeping a plate for the crow, feeding Pandits and inviting sisters and daughters for food — have taught me that remembering our ancestors can be expressed through very simple acts.

Pitru Paksha is, ultimately, a time to pause, remember and be grateful for the generations that came before us.

Written by Pragya Puri Goswami
Founder | LakeCity Blog

Exploring Rajasthan through real stories, heritage, local businesses, food, and unforgettable travel experiences. 

 Some food businesses begin with a family recipe. Others begin with years of experience. But sometimes, a business begins with a simple observation — seeing something somewhere else and wondering why it doesn't exist in your own city.

That is how the story of Kunafa Bliss began in Udaipur.

What started with an observation made by Manthan Suthar, a medical student studying in Indore, eventually became an idea to introduce authentic, freshly prepared Kunafa to the people of Udaipur.
Today, Kunafa Bliss has found its place near Fateh Sagar, offering something a little different — live Kunafa, prepared in front of the customer.
And after visiting Kunafa Bliss myself, I can say that the experience is not just about the dessert. The attention to hygiene, the care taken during preparation and the warm way customers are treated are equally noticeable.

How the Idea Began

While studying in Indore, Manthan noticed a Kunafa cart at a local food street. But something caught his attention — the Kunafa being served there was not what he considered authentic.
That observation made him curious.
He began looking deeper into Kunafa, its preparation and its availability in India. During his research, he found that only a limited number of brands were offering what he considered authentic Kunafa.
For Manthan, this was more than just an interesting food discovery. It looked like an opportunity.
He started thinking about bringing this relatively unfamiliar dessert to Udaipur — a city where locals, families and travellers naturally come together to explore new food experiences.
That thought eventually became Kunafa Bliss.

What Exactly Is Kunafa?

For many people in Udaipur, Kunafa is still a relatively new dessert.
Kunafa is a Middle Eastern dessert traditionally made using fine pastry strands, combined with a filling and finished with sweet syrup and toppings. Over time, different versions have become popular, including pistachio, cream and chocolate-based combinations.
At Kunafa Bliss, the idea was to make the experience more interactive by preparing the dessert live, right in front of the customer.

Why Kunafa?

When the concept was being developed, the founders felt that Kunafa was either unavailable in Udaipur or was commonly available in a frozen or pre-prepared format.
They wanted to do something different.
Instead of simply serving a ready-made dessert, their idea was to create a live Kunafa experience.
The preparation happens in front of the customer, with the ingredients being added and the dessert being assembled right before it is served.
For the team at Kunafa Bliss, this is not only about presentation. It is also about freshness, transparency and allowing customers to see what goes into their dessert.
And honestly, this is one of the things I noticed during my own visit.
I could see the ingredients being used and added right in front of me. There was no feeling of something being prepared secretly somewhere in the back and simply handed over.

My Experience at Kunafa Bliss

I recently visited Kunafa Bliss myself, and the first thing I noticed was the live preparation.
There is something satisfying about watching your dessert come together in front of you — from the Kunafa base to the fillings and toppings.
The team also pays attention to hygiene during the process. The ingredients are handled carefully, the preparation area is kept clean and customers can actually see what is being used.
Another small detail that I personally appreciated was the way they handle customer preferences.
If a customer wants a little extra sweetness or a particular addition, they are happy to accommodate it when possible. It makes the experience feel more personal rather than completely fixed or standardised.
For me, these little details matter when visiting a food place.
Good food is important, but so are clean preparation, proper ingredients, customer comfort and the way you are treated.

The People Behind Kunafa Bliss

Manthan is one of the people behind the idea of Kunafa Bliss, and what stood out to me personally was not just the business concept.
The people I interacted with at Kunafa Bliss were genuinely sweet and welcoming in nature.
They speak to customers with a smile, listen to what people want and remain involved in the experience rather than simply standing behind the counter.
That friendly interaction makes a difference.
When you are trying a dessert that you may have never tasted before, having someone explain it to you patiently and interact with you warmly makes the whole experience more comfortable.
It also reflects something important about a small food business — sometimes, customers remember how you made them feel just as much as they remember what they ate.

Why Fateh Sagar?

Choosing the location was another important part of the journey.
Fateh Sagar is one of those places in Udaipur where locals, families, youngsters and tourists naturally come together, especially during the evening.
The team felt that this made it an ideal setting for a live dessert experience.
Getting the location sorted was not completely effortless and took some time, but eventually everything came together according to the plan.
And today, the Kunafa counter has its place near one of Udaipur's most familiar evening destinations.
For someone already spending an evening around Fateh Sagar, stopping for a freshly prepared dessert makes the location even more convenient.

A Dessert You Can Watch Being Made

One of the defining ideas behind Kunafa Bliss is simple — don't just serve the dessert; let the customer experience its preparation.
Rather than preparing everything away from the customer, the process happens right in front of them.
You can watch the ingredients being added, see the layers coming together and then finally get your freshly prepared Kunafa.
The team believes that this visibility is closely connected with quality, hygiene and transparency.
From my own experience, I found this to be one of the most enjoyable parts of visiting Kunafa Bliss.
There is a certain excitement in watching your order being prepared while knowing exactly what is going into it.

What Should You Try at Kunafa Bliss?

If you are visiting Kunafa Bliss for the first time, some of the popular choices include:

• Pistachio Kunafa

• Rabdi Kunafa

• Nutella with Pistachio

Each one offers a different way of experiencing Kunafa.

Pistachio brings the nutty flavour, Rabdi adds a familiar Indian dessert touch, while Nutella with Pistachio is for those who enjoy a richer, chocolate-forward combination.

If you are completely new to Kunafa, you can also ask the team about the flavours and choose according to your preference.

Hygiene and Small Details Matter

While visiting food places, I personally pay attention to more than just taste.

At Kunafa Bliss, I noticed that hygiene is given proper attention during the preparation and serving process.

The ingredients are handled in front of customers, the preparation area is kept clean and the team makes an effort to maintain a neat serving experience.

Even after customers finish eating, they are encouraged to dispose of their used paper plates in the proper dustbin rather than leaving them around the area.

It may seem like a small thing, but when a food business is operating in a busy public space like Fateh Sagar, these small habits make a difference.

For me, a good food experience is a combination of taste, cleanliness, ingredients, preparation and people — and these are the details I noticed during my visit.

The Challenge Was Not Just Selling Kunafa

Starting a new food concept comes with its own challenges.
For Kunafa Bliss, one of the biggest challenges was creating awareness — both about the location and about Kunafa itself.
Many customers were initially unsure about what Kunafa actually was.
Some even had a very basic question:
Is Kunafa vegetarian or non-vegetarian?
The team found themselves not only serving the dessert but also explaining it to customers.
They clarify that all their products are 100% vegetarian, helping first-time customers feel more comfortable trying something that may still be unfamiliar to them.
In many ways, educating customers became part of building the brand.

When Customers Become Part of the Story

According to the team, the response from both locals and tourists has been encouraging.
One particular customer experience has stayed with them.
A customer visited Kunafa Bliss with his family, and his brother, who had come from Dubai, recognised the brand from its social media reels.
After tasting one Kunafa, he liked it enough to immediately place nine more orders.
For a young food brand, moments like these can mean much more than a single sale.
They show the team that something they started as an idea is becoming a product people remember, recommend and return for.
The team says the love and appreciation they received from that family remains one of their memorable experiences.

From a Student's Observation to a Growing Brand

There is something interesting about the journey of Kunafa Bliss.
The initial idea did not come from someone sitting in a conventional food-business environment.
It began with a medical student noticing something while studying in another city.
That observation led to research.
Research led to an idea.
And that idea eventually became a live dessert business in Udaipur.
Today, Kunafa Bliss is looking beyond its current counter.
The immediate goal is to establish a dedicated Kunafa Bliss outlet.
Once successful outlets are established, the team plans to explore expansion through a franchise model.

More Than Just a Dessert Counter

Udaipur has always had its own relationship with food — from traditional local flavours to cafés, street food and newer concepts introduced for a younger generation and visiting travellers.
Kunafa Bliss is part of this changing food landscape.
Its story is not simply about bringing an Arabic dessert to Udaipur.

It is also about identifying a gap, taking the risk of introducing something relatively unfamiliar and then patiently helping people understand and experience it.
What began with one observation in Indore has now become a growing dessert venture near Fateh Sagar.
And after visiting the place myself, I feel that the experience is not limited to the Kunafa on the plate. The live preparation, attention to hygiene, visible ingredients and the warm nature of the people behind the counter are all part of what makes the visit memorable.
Sometimes, a small food counter becomes interesting not because it is trying to be complicated, but because it gets the simple things right.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kunafa Bliss in Udaipur?

Kunafa Bliss is a live dessert counter near Fateh Sagar that specialises in freshly prepared, 100% vegetarian Kunafa.

What makes Kunafa Bliss different?

The Kunafa is prepared live in front of customers, allowing them to watch the preparation and see the ingredients being used.

Is Kunafa vegetarian at Kunafa Bliss?

Yes. According to the team, all products served at Kunafa Bliss are 100% vegetarian.

What should I try at Kunafa Bliss?

Some popular choices include Pistachio Kunafa, Rabdi Kunafa and Nutella with Pistachio.

Is Kunafa freshly prepared?

Yes. The concept of Kunafa Bliss is based around live preparation, with the dessert being prepared in front of customers.

Can I ask for extra sweetness or customisation?

Customers can communicate their preferences to the team, and when possible, the team is happy to accommodate requests such as additional sweetness.

Where is Kunafa Bliss located?

Kunafa Bliss is located near Fateh Sagar in Udaipur, making it a convenient stop while spending an evening around the lake.

Does Kunafa Bliss plan to open a dedicated outlet?

The immediate plan is to establish a dedicated Kunafa Bliss outlet. The team also hopes to explore expansion through a franchise model in the future.

A Sweet Beginning, With More to Come

Every growing business has a moment when an idea starts becoming real.

For Kunafa Bliss, that journey began with a medical student noticing something in Indore and wondering if he could bring a better version of that experience to his own city.

Today, that idea has become a live Kunafa counter near Fateh Sagar.

And perhaps the most interesting part is that the story is still being written.
For now, the message from Kunafa Bliss to Udaipur is simple — thank you for the love, support and encouragement.
And there is more to come.
Have you tried Kunafa before, or would Kunafa Bliss be your first taste of it?

---

Written by

Pragya Puri Goswami
Founder | LakeCity Blog
Exploring Rajasthan through real stories, heritage, local businesses, food, and unforgettable travel experiences.

Image Title: Udaipur Beyond the Palaces

But there is another side of Udaipur that is easier to notice when you stop following a sightseeing checklist.

It is in the narrow lanes of the Old City, the sound of temple bells in the morning, a shopkeeper opening a small family-run shop, colourful textiles hanging outside a store, a cup of chai at a local café and people going about their everyday routines beside centuries-old buildings.

For me, this everyday side is what makes Udaipur feel like a living city rather than simply a tourist destination. 

I have lived around these familiar parts of Udaipur long enough to realise that the city feels very different when I am not visiting it as a tourist. Sometimes it is a ride through the old streets, stopping for something to eat, passing a temple on the way, or simply noticing how the city looks at a different time of the day. These ordinary moments are often the ones that stay with me.

If you want to experience Udaipur beyond the palaces, slow down, walk through its older neighbourhoods and pay attention to the small details.

What Does “Everyday Udaipur” Really Mean?

Exploring Udaipur beyond the palaces does not mean avoiding its famous attractions completely.

It simply means looking beyond them.

The historic parts of the city continue to function as everyday neighbourhoods. People shop, work, pray, meet friends, run businesses and go about their daily lives among old architecture and heritage buildings.

This is especially noticeable around the Old City, where markets, temples, traditional shops and residential lanes exist alongside some of Udaipur's best-known heritage attractions.

The official Incredible India guide also highlights Udaipur's markets as an important part of the city's cultural experience, including Hathi Pol, Bada Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar.

Start with a Walk Through the Old City

One of the easiest ways to discover everyday Udaipur is simply to walk.

Instead of moving from one monument to another by vehicle, take some time to explore the streets around the Old City.

You may notice traditional doors, balconies, painted walls, small shrines, old buildings and shops that you might otherwise pass without noticing.

The lanes around the Old City are also where the contrast between old and new becomes particularly interesting.

A traditional building may stand next to a modern café. A centuries-old temple may be surrounded by busy shops. A handmade textile may be displayed beside contemporary clothing.

This mixture is part of what makes walking through Udaipur so enjoyable.

I often enjoy Udaipur this way myself. I don't always have a particular place in mind when I go out. Sometimes I simply take a ride through the older parts of the city and let the streets decide where I stop. The familiar lanes, old buildings and small shops have a different charm when you are not rushing to reach a particular attraction.

Spend Time Around the Local Markets

Udaipur's markets are not just places to shop.

They are also places where you can observe everyday life.

Hathi Pol is known for handicrafts and traditional artwork, while Bada Bazaar offers textiles, clothing, jewellery and other locally popular products. Bapu Bazaar has a broader mix of everyday shopping and local goods.

While walking through these markets, look beyond the products.

Notice how shopkeepers arrange their displays, how customers negotiate prices, how artisans present their work and how different generations use the same market spaces.

That is the part of Udaipur that a sightseeing list cannot really capture.

As someone from Udaipur, these markets are not just tourist shopping spots for me. I have passed through them for everyday shopping, food and small errands, and that is when you notice their real character. The same streets that a visitor may explore for handicrafts are also part of people's normal routines. That everyday movement is what makes these markets feel alive.

Look Beyond the Famous Monuments

Udaipur's major monuments deserve their place on every first-time visitor's itinerary.

But if you have already seen the major attractions, try exploring the spaces between them.

Walk through a nearby lane.

Look at an old balcony.

Notice a carved doorway.

Stop at a small temple.

Watch a local shopkeeper working.

Sit somewhere for a few minutes instead of immediately moving to the next attraction.

These small pauses can completely change the way you experience the city.

Discover Udaipur's Temples and Everyday Spiritual Life

Temples are another important part of everyday Udaipur.

Places of worship are not simply heritage structures to photograph. They remain active parts of local life.

A morning temple visit can give you a different perspective of the city—the sound of bells, people stopping for prayers and the quiet rhythm before the streets become busy.

During your visit, remember that these are living religious spaces. Dress respectfully, maintain the atmosphere and always ask before photographing people or interiors.

Jagdish Temple is one place that especially comes to mind for me. I have visited it at different times, and I particularly enjoy the atmosphere there in the evening. It is not only a place I would suggest seeing for its architecture; for me, it is also one of those familiar Udaipur spots where you can pause for a while and feel the city's spiritual side.

Notice the Local Shops and Family-Run Businesses

Some of the most interesting stories in Udaipur can be found inside small shops.

A family-run business may have been serving customers for years, while another shop may specialise in traditional jewellery, textiles, paintings, handicrafts or accessories.

If you are interested in something, ask questions.

Where was it made?

What material was used?

Is it handmade?

How is the design created?

A simple conversation can turn an ordinary shopping experience into a memorable travel moment.

And if you want to photograph the shopkeeper or their shop, ask permission first.

Experience Udaipur Through Local Crafts

Udaipur's artistic identity can be seen throughout its markets.

Miniature paintings, textiles, jewellery, decorative pieces and other handicrafts are part of the wider craft culture of Rajasthan. Hathi Pol, for example, is highlighted by Incredible India for handicrafts and miniature paintings, while Shilpgram offers visitors a more dedicated setting for experiencing traditional arts and crafts.

When shopping, don't look only at the colour or price.

Take a closer look at the workmanship.

A locally made piece can become a more meaningful memory of Udaipur than a generic souvenir.

Take a Break at a Local Café

Alt Text: Local café in Udaipur with traditional surroundings

You can find cafés in old streets, rooftops and heritage properties where you can take a break after walking.

But I would suggest choosing a café for more than just an Instagram photograph.

Look at the location, seating, food, atmosphere and view.

Sometimes a simple cup of coffee in a quiet corner can be more enjoyable than visiting another crowded attraction.

For me, taking a break does not always mean finding a famous café. Sometimes a simple place with good food, a comfortable corner and a view of the city is enough. When I am out exploring Udaipur, I prefer places where I can sit for a little while rather than simply visit, take a photograph and leave.

Sit Beside Lake Pichola Without Rushing

Lake Pichola is one of the most recognisable parts of Udaipur, but you don't always need a boat ride or a planned activity to enjoy it.

Find a peaceful spot near the waterfront and simply observe the surroundings.

Watch the changing light.

Look at the old buildings reflected in the water.

Notice the ghats and movement around the lake.

The lake becomes particularly atmospheric in the evening, when the light changes and the historic skyline begins to reflect across the water.

Lake Pichola is also one of those places I return to when I want a quieter side of the city. I have spent evenings around the lake simply sitting, walking and watching the changing light. I don't always need a boat ride or a particular plan; sometimes being there for a while is enough.

For me, this slower way of experiencing Lake Pichola fits perfectly with the idea of exploring Udaipur beyond its famous attractions.

Notice the Small Details of Udaipur

Sometimes the best photographs and memories are not of famous landmarks.

They are of details.

A colourful doorway.

An old window.

A painted wall.

Traditional artwork.

A street vendor preparing food.

A shop display.

A temple bell.

A quiet lane.

A conversation with a local.

When you slow down, these details start telling you more about the city.

Why Walking Is One of the Best Ways to Experience Local Udaipur

A Simple Way to Experience Udaipur Beyond the Palaces

If you have one free day and want to experience the everyday side of Udaipur, I would keep the day relaxed rather than trying to cover too many places.

If I were showing someone my everyday side of Udaipur, I would leave enough time between places to stop for food, sit by the lake or explore a lane that catches my attention. Udaipur is more enjoyable when the day does not feel like a checklist.

Morning:
Start with an Old City walk and visit a local temple.

Late morning:
Explore the markets around the Old City and browse traditional crafts.

Afternoon:
Have lunch at a local restaurant or take a café break.

Evening:
Walk towards Lake Pichola and spend some quiet time around the waterfront.

Sunset:
Find a comfortable spot around the Ambrai side or a suitable rooftop/café and watch the city change with the evening light.

The idea is not to see everything.

It is to experience a little more deeply.

Tips for Exploring Udaipur Like a Local

• Wear comfortable footwear for walking.

• Carry water, especially during warmer months.

• Keep some cash for small shops and local businesses.

• Ask permission before photographing people or private shops.

• Respect temple customs and religious spaces.

• Compare prices before buying handicrafts.

• Bargain politely where bargaining is appropriate.

• Keep some unplanned time in your schedule.

• Avoid rushing from one attraction to another.

• Pay attention to the everyday life happening around you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Udaipur only about palaces and lakes?

No. Udaipur's identity also comes from its Old City, temples, markets, traditional crafts, neighbourhoods and everyday local life.

Which markets are worth exploring in Udaipur?

Hathi Pol, Bada Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar are among the city's well-known shopping areas, each offering a different mix of crafts, textiles, clothing and everyday goods.

What can I buy in Udaipur?

Depending on the market, you can find textiles, jewellery, miniature paintings, handicrafts, traditional clothing, bags, décor items and souvenirs.

Is walking a good way to explore Udaipur's Old City?

Yes. Walking lets you notice architecture, small shops, temples, markets and everyday details that are easy to miss when travelling quickly between attractions.

How can I experience Udaipur more like a local?

Slow down, explore the Old City on foot, visit local markets and temples, talk respectfully with shopkeepers, try local food and leave some time to simply observe the city.

My Takeaway

The grand palaces may be what first attracts you to Udaipur, but after living here and experiencing the city in everyday life, I feel they are only one part of its story.

For me, Udaipur is also the evening ride through an old street, a familiar temple, a local market, a favourite food stop, a quiet moment beside Lake Pichola and the small details I notice when I am not in a hurry.

These are the parts of the city that may not always appear on a sightseeing itinerary, but they are what make Udaipur feel familiar, personal and alive.

So, if you are visiting Udaipur, don't just move from one famous attraction to another. Leave some time to walk, pause, observe and simply experience the city.

Because sometimes, the most memorable part of Udaipur is not the monument you came to see.

It is the little part of the city you discovered along the way.

Written by Pragya Puri Goswami

 Image Title:

For days, Lord Ganesha becomes a part of homes, temples, neighbourhoods and streets. Beautiful idols are decorated, aarti is performed, people visit pandals and the sound of devotional music becomes a familiar part of the day.

Then comes Anant Chaturdashi — a day of devotion, farewell and new beginnings.

In many places, this is the day when the Ganesh idol is taken out in a procession and immersed in water. For devotees, it is not simply a goodbye. It is a way of thanking Lord Ganesha for being a part of their home or community and praying for his blessings until he returns again.

But Anant Chaturdashi has another important religious significance too. The day is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Anant form, and devotees observe the Anant Chaturdashi vrat and perform the associated puja.

In 2026, Anant Chaturdashi will be observed on 25 September. The Chaturdashi tithi begins on the night of 24 September and continues until the night of 25 September.

What is Anant Chaturdashi?

Anant Chaturdashi falls on the Shukla Paksha Chaturdashi of Bhadrapada.

The word Anant means infinite or eternal, and the day is associated with the worship of Lord Vishnu in his Anant form.

Devotees may observe a fast, perform Vishnu puja and tie the traditional Anant Sutra, a sacred thread associated with the festival.

The Anant Sutra is traditionally made with multiple knots, commonly fourteen, and is tied after the puja. According to religious belief, devotees wear it seeking protection, prosperity and well-being.

At the same time, Anant Chaturdashi is widely known for another reason — it marks the culmination of the main Ganeshotsav period and is one of the most important days for Ganesh Visarjan.

This is why the day has a special place in the festival calendar.

Anant Chaturdashi and Ganesh Visarjan

If you have followed Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations, you already know that the festival does not necessarily end on the same day everywhere.

Some families perform visarjan after one and a half days, while others keep Ganeshji for 3, 5, 7 or 10 days.

Anant Chaturdashi is traditionally the most significant day for the final Ganesh Visarjan, especially for the ten-day Ganeshotsav.

The day usually begins with the final puja and aarti.

Then the idol is prepared for the journey.

Families and communities carry Ganeshji through the streets with devotional songs, drums and chants before reaching the designated immersion place.

The atmosphere can be full of celebration, but there is also an emotional side to it.

After spending days with Ganpati, saying goodbye is not easy.

The emotion behind Ganpati Visarjan

One thing I find beautiful about Ganesh Visarjan is the emotion behind the celebration.

People dance.

There is music.

Devotees chant “Ganpati Bappa Morya.”

Families take photographs.

Children often become the most excited part of the procession.

But behind all the celebration is a simple feeling — thank you and come back again.

The immersion represents returning the idol to the elements after the period of worship.

For devotees, the farewell is temporary. The belief is that Ganpati will return again with the next Ganesh Chaturthi.

That is why the atmosphere can feel both joyful and emotional at the same time.

From Ganesh Chaturthi to Anant Chaturdashi

For me, these two festivals feel like two parts of the same story.

At Ganesh Chaturthi, Ganpati arrives.

Homes and public spaces are decorated. People perform sthapana, aarti and bhog, and the celebrations begin.

If you want to know how Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated across Rajasthan, I have shared that experience in my earlier post:

[Ganesh Chaturthi in Rajasthan: Moti Dungri, Bohra Ganesh and Udaipur Cha Raja]

This is a natural link to add here to your existing Ganesh Chaturthi article.

Then, after the days of celebration, comes Anant Chaturdashi and the farewell through Ganesh Visarjan.

For me, looking at both festivals together makes the whole Ganeshotsav experience easier to understand.

Anant Sutra: Another Important Tradition

While Ganesh Visarjan is what most people immediately associate with Anant Chaturdashi, the Anant Sutra is an important part of the festival too.

The thread is associated with Lord Vishnu's Anant form.

It is traditionally prepared with fourteen knots, and devotees tie it after performing the puja.

There is a religious belief that wearing the Anant Sutra brings protection, prosperity and well-being.

The customs can differ between families and communities, so the exact puja method may not be the same everywhere.

What remains common is the devotion towards Lord Vishnu and the belief in the eternal nature represented by Anant.

How Anant Chaturdashi is Celebrated in Rajasthan

Rajasthan has its own colourful way of celebrating festivals, and Ganeshotsav has also become an important part of the festive atmosphere in many cities.

On Anant Chaturdashi, the streets can become lively with Ganesh Visarjan processions.

Large idols are carried on decorated vehicles or platforms, while smaller idols are taken by families.

Devotees accompany Ganpati with music, dancing, dhol and chants.

The exact procession routes and immersion arrangements depend on the city and local administration, so if you are planning to watch a procession, it is always better to check the local arrangements before leaving.

Ganesh Visarjan in Udaipur

Being from Udaipur, I particularly notice how important it is to celebrate festivals while also taking care of the lakes and surroundings that make this city special.

Udaipur is known for its lakes, but that does not mean every idol should simply be immersed directly into a natural lake.

Over the years, arrangements such as designated immersion points and artificial tanks have been used in different places to help manage Ganesh Visarjan while protecting water bodies.

If you are attending a procession in Udaipur, follow the current year's official immersion arrangements rather than choosing a lake or water body on your own.

I personally like seeing this balance — celebrating our traditions while also taking responsibility for the city we call home.

A Simple Way to Experience Anant Chaturdashi

If you want to experience Anant Chaturdashi in Rajasthan, you do not necessarily need to visit a huge procession.

You can start with a local temple or neighbourhood Ganpati.

Watch the final aarti.

See how the idol is prepared for the journey.

Follow the procession for a while.

Listen to the chants and drums.

And if you are attending a public visarjan, follow the designated route and immersion arrangements.

The experience is often more meaningful when you slow down and actually observe what is happening around you instead of only trying to capture everything on your phone.

Why Anant Chaturdashi Feels Different

Ganesh Chaturthi is about welcoming Ganpati.

Anant Chaturdashi is about letting go.

That is what makes the final day feel different.

After days of celebration, the idol that became a part of the family or community is taken for visarjan.

There is happiness because the festival was celebrated.

There is emotion because Ganpati is leaving.

And there is faith that he will return again.

For me, that combination is what makes the final day of Ganeshotsav so beautiful.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Anant Chaturdashi?

Anant Chaturdashi is observed on the Shukla Paksha Chaturdashi of Bhadrapada and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Anant form. It is also an important day for Ganesh Visarjan.

When is Anant Chaturdashi in 2026?

In 2026, Anant Chaturdashi will be observed on 25 September.

Why is Ganesh Visarjan done on Anant Chaturdashi?

Anant Chaturdashi is traditionally the most significant day for Ganesh Visarjan and marks the culmination of the main ten-day Ganeshotsav.

What is Anant Sutra?

Anant Sutra is a sacred thread traditionally associated with Anant Chaturdashi. It is commonly prepared with fourteen knots and tied after the Anant puja.

Is Anant Chaturdashi only a Ganesh festival?

No. Anant Chaturdashi is also a festival dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Anant form. Ganesh Visarjan is another major tradition associated with the day.

Can Ganesh Visarjan happen before Anant Chaturdashi?

Yes. Depending on family or community tradition, Ganesh Visarjan can take place on the same day as Ganesh Chaturthi or after 1.5, 3, 5 or 7 days. Anant Chaturdashi is the most significant day for the final immersion.

What should I check before attending Ganesh Visarjan in Udaipur?

Check the local administration's current procession routes, traffic arrangements and designated immersion points before leaving. Avoid immersing idols directly into lakes unless that is an officially designated arrangement.

A Farewell That Never Really Feels Like Goodbye

Festivals come and go, but some leave behind a feeling that stays for much longer.

For me, Anant Chaturdashi is one of those days.

It is the final aarti, the decorated Ganpati, the sound of dhol and chants, the procession moving through the streets and finally the moment of visarjan.

There is emotion in saying goodbye, but there is also hope.

Ganpati Bappa Morya — next year, come back soon.

And perhaps that is the most beautiful part of the festival: we say goodbye with the belief that the next welcome is already waiting.

Written by Pragya Puri Goswami
Founder | LakeCity Blog
Exploring Rajasthan through real stories, heritage, local businesses, food, and unforgettable travel experiences.

Jal Jhulni Ekadashi in Mewar: The Ram Revadi Tradition I Have Grown Up Watching

Some festivals are not just something you read about or celebrate at home. You actually see them happening around you.

For me, Jal Jhulni Ekadashi is one of those festivals.

Image Title : Jal Jhulni Ekadashi Celebrated At Gangu Kund 

Alt Text : People celebrates jal jhulni ekadashi at gangu kund  udaipur

Growing up in Udaipur and being familiar with Mewar, I have seen how the festival brings the streets, temples and ghats together. On this day, Lord Krishna is taken out from the temple in a beautifully decorated palki. Devotees gather along the route with flowers, coconuts and fruits, bhajans fill the streets and red gulal becomes a part of the celebration.

In Mewar, the day is also popularly known as Daan Ekadashi, and the traditional procession is known as Ram Revai.

For me, this is one of those Rajasthan traditions that is best understood by experiencing it in person rather than simply reading about it.

What is Jal Jhulni Ekadashi?

Jal Jhulni Ekadashi is observed on the Shukla Paksha Ekadashi of Bhadrapada. The festival is associated with Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna and is especially connected with the tradition of taking the deity towards water.

It is also known as Parivartini Ekadashi.

According to Hindu belief, Lord Vishnu rests on Sheshnag in Kshirsagar during Chaturmas. On this Ekadashi, it is believed that he changes his sleeping position or turns to the other side. This change is the reason the day is called Parivartini Ekadashi.

The tradition of taking the deity towards water gives the festival its name Jal Jhulni Ekadashi.

In different parts of Rajasthan, the celebrations have their own local traditions. In Mewar, one of the most beautiful parts is the Ram Revai procession, when the deity comes out of the temple and travels through the streets towards a water body or ghat.

Why is it called Daan Ekadashi in Mewar?

In Mewar, many people commonly refer to Jal Jhulni Ekadashi as Daan Ekadashi.

The local name is closely associated with the traditions and devotional practices followed on this day. If you speak to people in the region, you may hear the festival referred to by different names depending on the place and family tradition.

That is one thing I love about Rajasthan's festivals. The same religious occasion can have different local names and customs, while the devotion behind it remains the same.

What happens during Ram Revadi?

On Jal Jhulni Ekadashi, the deity is beautifully decorated and placed in a palki or bewan.

The palki then leaves the temple and moves through the streets towards a ghat, kund or other water body.

Devotees wait along the route to have darshan. Many people offer flowers, coconuts and fruits to Thakurji as the palki passes.

The atmosphere is filled with bhajans, devotional music, temple bells and chants. Red gulal is also offered during the celebration, making the procession especially colourful.

For me, this is what makes Ram Revadi so beautiful. The celebration is not limited to the temple. The entire route becomes a part of the festival.

Why do devotees pass under the palki?

One of the traditions you may notice during the procession is devotees passing underneath the palki.

There is a local religious belief that passing under the palki brings the blessings of the deity and helps remove difficulties, troubles and illnesses from one's life.

This is a matter of faith and local belief rather than something that can be scientifically established.

Still, watching devotees participate in this tradition with such deep faith is a beautiful part of the experience. People wait for the palki, bow their heads, seek blessings and then continue with the procession.

Jal Jhulni Ekadashi at Jagdish Temple, Udaipur

If you are in Udaipur, one of the places where I would personally suggest experiencing Ram Revadi is Jagdish Temple.

The procession comes out from the temple and moves through the old city towards Gangaur Ghat, beside Lake Pichola.

This is where the experience becomes particularly special for me.

The old streets are filled with devotees waiting for Thakurji. People stand along the route with flowers, coconuts and fruits. The decorated palki slowly moves through the crowd while bhajans and devotional sounds continue around it.

As the procession reaches Gangaur Ghat, the beautiful setting of Lake Pichola adds another dimension to the celebration.

The deity is taken towards the water, the religious rituals are performed and aarti takes place before the procession returns.

The official Utsav portal also lists the Jal Jhulni tradition in Udaipur, including the Ram Revadi procession towards Gangaur Ghat, gangu kund and the ritual connected with the water.

Being a local, I feel this is one of those Udaipur experiences that you understand much better when you actually stand along the route and watch it happen.

Dahi and Makhan Bhog for Krishna

Jal Jhulni Ekadashi is closely associated with Lord Krishna, and dahi and makhan are among the traditional offerings made to Krishna on this occasion.

Fruits and other bhog are also offered according to temple and family traditions.

The sight of Krishna beautifully decorated, the bhog being prepared and devotees gathering for darshan creates a very different atmosphere from an ordinary temple visit.

For me, these small details are what make the festival feel personal and familiar.

Ram Revadi in Mewar

The term Ram Revadi is particularly familiar in the Mewar region for these traditional deity processions.

The exact route and customs can differ from one place to another, but the central idea remains similar — the deity comes out of the temple in a decorated palki, devotees accompany the procession and the deity is taken towards water.

It is not just a religious ceremony. It is also a beautiful example of how old traditions continue to remain a living part of Mewar's everyday culture.

Places to Experience Jal Jhulni Ekadashi in Mewar

If you want to experience the festival beyond Udaipur, there are several important temples you can include in your Mewar travel plan.

1. Jagdish Temple, Udaipur

Route: Jagdish Temple → Old City → Gangaur Ghat → Gangu kund 

For a first experience, this is the route I would personally choose in Udaipur.

You get to experience the procession through the old city and then see the rituals near Lake Pichola at Gangaur Ghat.

2. Sanwariya Seth, Mandphiya, Chittorgarh

Route: Udaipur → Chittorgarh → Mandphiya

Sanwariya Seth is another major Krishna temple associated with Jal Jhulni celebrations.

The temple sees a large gathering of devotees, and the deity is taken out in a traditional procession.

The Utsav portal also lists Jal Jhulni Ekadashi celebrations at Sanwaliya Ji Temple in Mandphiya, including the procession towards the village kund.

3. Shrinathji, Nathdwara

Route: Udaipur → Nathdwara → Shrinathji Temple

Nathdwara is one of Rajasthan's most important Vaishnav pilgrimage centres.

If you want to experience the devotional side of Mewar along with the atmosphere of Jal Jhulni, Shrinathji can be an important stop on your temple trail.

4. Dwarkadhish Temple, Kankroli

Route: Nathdwara → Kankroli → Dwarkadhish Temple

From Nathdwara, you can continue towards Kankroli in Rajsamand and visit the famous Dwarkadhish Temple.

The area has a strong Vaishnav tradition and is another important place to explore during the festival season.

5. Charbhuja Nath Temple, Garhbor

Route: Kankroli → Garhbor → Charbhuja Nath Temple

Charbhuja Nath is one of the important places to experience Jal Jhulni Ekadashi in the Mewar region.

The celebration includes a traditional procession in which the deity is carried in a palki towards the water, with devotees gathering along the route.

The Ministry of Tourism's Utsav portal describes the Jal Jhulni celebration at Charbhuja Nath, including the palki procession towards Doodh Talai and devotees participating along the route.

My Suggested Mewar Route

If you are planning a temple-focused trip from Udaipur, you can consider this route:

Udaipur
↓
Jagdish Temple → Gangaur Ghat
↓
Nathdwara → Shrinathji Temple
↓
Kankroli → Dwarkadhish Temple
↓
Garhbor → Charbhuja Nath Temple

Sanwariya Seth, Mandphiya can be planned separately along with a Chittorgarh visit because it falls in a different direction.

I would personally not try to cover all of these places in a single day. The celebrations can attract large crowds, and every temple has its own schedule and local traditions.

Choosing one or two places and giving yourself enough time to actually experience the procession is much better than rushing from one temple to another.

What Makes Jal Jhulni Special to Me?

For me, Jal Jhulni Ekadashi is not only about the religious ritual.

It is the sight of a decorated palki coming out of the temple.

It is people standing along the road with flowers, coconuts and fruits.

It is the sound of bhajans following the procession.

It is the red gulal and the excitement among devotees.

It is families waiting together for darshan.

And then there is the moment when the palki reaches the water and the aarti begins.

These are the moments that make the festival memorable.

As someone who belongs to this region, I feel that Mewar's festivals have a special way of bringing old traditions into everyday life. You do not need a stage or a special event venue to experience them. The streets, temples, ghats and people themselves become part of the celebration.

If You Want to Watch Ram Revadi in Udaipur

If you are visiting Udaipur around Jal Jhulni Ekadashi, I would suggest reaching the old city early and keeping your vehicle at a suitable parking point.

From there, you can walk towards the procession route.

Be prepared for crowds, especially near the temple and Gangaur Ghat. If you are carrying a phone or camera, keep it protected because gulal and the crowd can get intense.

And most importantly, do not look at the procession only as a photo opportunity.

Stand there for a while.

Watch the devotees.

Listen to the bhajans.

See how people welcome Thakurji.

That is where you really understand the beauty of Ram Revadi.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jal Jhulni Ekadashi?

Jal Jhulni Ekadashi is an important Ekadashi observed during the Shukla Paksha of Bhadrapada. It is associated with Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna and with the tradition of taking the deity towards water.

Why is Jal Jhulni Ekadashi called Parivartini Ekadashi?

According to Hindu belief, Lord Vishnu changes his sleeping position on this Ekadashi during Chaturmas. This change is why the day is known as Parivartini Ekadashi.

What is Daan Ekadashi?

Daan Ekadashi is a local name used for Jal Jhulni Ekadashi in parts of Mewar. Local names and customs can vary across Rajasthan.

What is Ram Revadi?

Ram Revadi is the traditional procession in which the deity is taken out from the temple in a decorated palki or bewan, usually towards a water body or ghat.

Where can I watch Ram Revadi in Udaipur?

In Udaipur, the procession associated with Jagdish Temple moves through the old city towards Gangaur Ghat near Lake Pichola.

Why do people pass under the palki?

There is a local religious belief that passing under the deity's palki brings blessings and helps remove difficulties and illnesses. It is a matter of faith and tradition.

What bhog is offered to Krishna on Jal Jhulni Ekadashi?

Dahi and makhan are traditionally associated with Krishna's bhog on this occasion. Fruits and other offerings may also be prepared according to local and family traditions.

Which places in Mewar are associated with Jal Jhulni celebrations?

Important places include Jagdish Temple in Udaipur, Sanwariya Seth in Mandphiya, Shrinathji in Nathdwara, Dwarkadhish Temple in Kankroli and Charbhuja Nath in Garhbor.

A Festival I Have Grown Up Watching

Every region has its own way of celebrating festivals, but Mewar has a special charm.

For me, Jal Jhulni Ekadashi is not simply a date on the Hindu calendar. It is something I have seen around me — the palki, the devotees, the flowers, the gulal, the bhajans and the aarti near the water.

That is what I love about Rajasthan.

Some of its most beautiful traditions are not found only inside monuments or museums. They are still alive on the streets, in the temples and among the people.

And Ram Revadi is one of those traditions I always love watching.

Have you ever watched a Jal Jhulni or Ram Revadi procession in Mewar? Which temple did you experience it at?

Written by Pragya Puri Goswami
Founder | LakeCity Blog

Exploring Rajasthan through real stories, heritage, local businesses, food, and unforgettable travel experiences. 

Gavri of Mewar: The Folk Theatre I Remember from My Childhood

Image 1 Title: Gavri of Mewar Traditional Folk Theatre
Alt Text: Traditional Gavri folk theatre performance in Mewar, Rajasthan

Image 2 Title: Traditional Gavri Performance in Mewar
Alt Text: Gavri performers portraying traditional folk theatre characters in Mewar

Image 3 Title: Gavri Folk Tradition of Mewar
Alt Text: Traditional Gavri performers during a folk theatre performance in Rajasthan

There are some traditions that you discover through books, articles or travel. And then there are traditions that you grow up seeing without even realising how special they are.

For me, Gavri is one of them.

I remember watching Gavri as a child at Ambamata Chowk in Udaipur, Rajasthan. At that age, I did not understand everything the performers were saying. Even now, when I watch a traditional Gavri performance, some of the dialogues and the way they are spoken can be difficult for me to follow.

But I could understand the story through their actions.

The expressions, movements, costumes and the way one character reacted to another often told me what was happening, even when I could not follow the words.

And perhaps that is one of the reasons Gavri has stayed in my memory.

It never felt like I was watching something prepared for visitors. It felt like I was watching something that belonged to Mewar.

What is Gavri?

Gavri is a traditional folk theatre form of Mewar, closely associated with the Bhil community of southern Rajasthan.

It brings together theatre, mythology, storytelling, music, dance, humour and ritual. Rather than taking place like a conventional play on a fixed stage, Gavri has traditionally been part of the community and village landscape.

The artists enact different stories and characters, moving between devotional, dramatic and humorous moments.

One of the important characters associated with Gavri is Rai.

But Gavri is not based on one single story. Different episodes and narratives are performed, which is why each gathering can move through several different moods.

When you are standing there watching, you don't necessarily think about its definition.

You simply watch.

That is exactly how I remember Gavri from my childhood.

The History and Tribal Roots of Gavri

To understand Gavri, it is important to know that this is not simply another Rajasthani dance form.

Its roots are connected with the Bhil communities of the Mewar region, and the art has been carried from one generation to another.

Gavri has remained closely connected to village life, community participation and religious belief. This connection sets it apart from a folk presentation created mainly for a cultural programme.

For generations, Gavri has provided a way for communities to preserve stories, beliefs, humour and social observations through theatre.

This is also why I think Gavri should not be viewed only from a tourist's point of view.

When you experience it, you are seeing a cultural practice that has a life beyond the stage.

When and Why is Gavri Performed?

Gavri is traditionally associated with the monsoon period and the Hindu months of Shravan and Bhadrapada, following specific community rituals and observances.

The practice is connected with faith, devotion and community life, rather than being simply an entertainment programme.

The artists undertake the Gavri season with a sense of discipline and ritual commitment. The weeks of performances become an important part of their social and spiritual lives.

This is one reason I would personally avoid calling Gavri just a “folk show.”

There is much more behind it.

The 40-Day Gavri Tradition

One of the most distinctive aspects of Gavri is its long season.

Traditionally, the Gavri period can continue for around 40 days, with performers travelling to different places and presenting their plays.

Think about that for a moment.

Today, we are used to watching a cultural programme for an hour or two and then going home. Gavri is very different. It becomes part of the performers' lives for weeks.

They travel, enact their plays, follow traditional practices and remain connected with their communities throughout the season.

That long period is one of the reasons Gavri feels less like a scheduled event and more like a season of cultural life.

Rai, Characters, Music and Storytelling

If you have never experienced Gavri before, the first thing you may notice is that it does not look like conventional theatre.

There are characters, costumes, movements, music and dramatic scenes, but there is also a spontaneous feeling to it.

Rai is one of the central traditional characters, while the plays include several others from mythology and folk narratives.

The artists traditionally portray both male and female characters. Female roles are also performed by men, which is a distinctive feature of this folk theatre style.

Then comes the music.

For me, the mandal is one of the most memorable parts.

I still remember its sound from the Gavri I watched as a child.

There was something about that rhythm that immediately caught my attention. Even when I could not follow the dialogue, I could understand the flow through the music and the performers' movements.

The mandal doesn't simply accompany Gavri.

It helps create its atmosphere.

The Connection Between Gavri and Mahadev

Gavri also has a strong connection with Lord Shiva and Parvati and with the religious beliefs surrounding the practice.

The episodes presented during Gavri draw from mythology and folk traditions, and Shiva is an important presence in the cultural and spiritual world surrounding it.

This connection becomes especially meaningful because Gavri takes place during the monsoon period, a season already deeply associated with Shiva worship in Rajasthan.

But Gavri's relationship with Mahadev is not something I would describe simply as “a Shiva dance.”

It is more layered than that. It brings together mythology, devotion, theatre and community life.

And that combination is what makes Gavri so interesting.

Why Do Men Perform the Female Characters?

This is usually one of the first things people notice when they see Gavri for the first time.

Traditionally, men perform the Gavri roles, including female characters.

The artists use costumes, gestures, expressions and body language to become their characters.

When I watched Gavri as a child, I wasn't analysing any of this.

I just remember looking at the performers and trying to understand who they were supposed to be.

Today, when I look back at that memory, I realise how much storytelling was happening without elaborate sets or modern stage effects.

Where Can You Experience Gavri in Mewar?

Gavri is best experienced in the Mewar region, particularly in communities where the practice continues to be observed.

Udaipur and the surrounding areas become especially interesting during the Gavri season, when performances can be seen in local communities and village settings.

If you are visiting Udaipur specifically to experience Gavri, I would suggest checking with local organisers, community members or the local cultural calendar for the current year's locations rather than assuming that every venue will have a programme on a fixed date.

And if you get the opportunity to attend one, don't just stand there taking photographs.

Watch the people around you too.

Listen to the music.

See how the local audience reacts.

That is part of experiencing Gavri.

The Rituals Behind Gavri

Gavri has its own traditional rules and practices.

The artists traditionally follow a period of ritual discipline and observance during the Gavri season. Their participation is not treated casually because the practice is connected with faith and community beliefs.

This spiritual discipline is an important part of understanding how Gavri has continued across generations.

The enactments may contain humour and entertainment, but underneath them is a practice carrying religious and cultural meaning.

That balance between devotion and theatre is perhaps one of Gavri's most fascinating qualities.

Gavri is More Than a Folk Dance

I think this is where Gavri is often misunderstood.

Calling Gavri a folk dance is not completely wrong, but it doesn't tell the whole story.

Gavri is theatre.

It is storytelling.

It is music.

It is mythology.

It is humour.

It is ritual.

And most importantly, it is community.

You don't need a huge stage, expensive lighting or elaborate production design to make Gavri work.

The artists, their expressions, the music and the narratives are enough.

When I watched it as a child, I didn't know any of these definitions.

I simply knew that something was happening in front of me.

And I was interested enough to keep watching.

My Gavri Memory from Udaipur

This is probably the most personal reason I wanted to write about Gavri.

I have watched Gavri at Ambamata Chowk in Udaipur during my childhood.

I don't remember every story.

I don't remember every character.

And I definitely cannot claim that I understood every dialogue.

But I remember the feeling of watching it.

Sometimes the traditional language and dialogue were difficult for me to follow, so I would simply watch the performers' actions.

Someone would move in a particular way.

Another character would react.

The music would change.

The audience would respond.

And somehow, I would understand what was going on.

That is my earliest connection with Gavri.

It wasn't something I planned to experience.

It was simply there around me while I was growing up in Udaipur.

And today, when I think about it, I feel fortunate that I got to experience it that way.

Not as a tourist.

Not through a cultural festival brochure.

But as a child watching a folk theatre tradition in my own city.

One Thing Parents Should Know

There is one small thing I would keep in mind if you are taking very young children to watch Gavri.

Some children may find it scary.

The costumes, makeup, dramatic characters, loud sounds and intense movements can be a little overwhelming for small children.

I remember Gavri from my own childhood, and I can understand why a very young child might feel frightened.

So if you are going with children, especially for the first time, it is better to explain beforehand that the artists are acting out traditional characters.

For older children, though, Gavri can be a wonderful way to introduce them to a side of Rajasthan that they will not find inside a textbook.

How to Experience Gavri Respectfully

If you are visiting Mewar during the Gavri season, remember that you are entering a living cultural and religious practice, not simply attending a tourist attraction.

A few simple things can make your visit more respectful:

• Ask before photographing artists up close.

• Avoid interrupting the enactment for a better photograph.

• Dress respectfully, especially if the gathering is connected with a religious occasion.

• Don't treat the artists or their costumes as a joke.

• If the dialogue is difficult to follow, observe the actions and ask locals about the story later.

• Avoid treating the community space like a photo shoot.

• Let the local audience experience the gathering without obstruction.

Sometimes the best way to experience a tradition is simply to stand quietly and watch.

Why Gavri Still Matters

Mewar has magnificent palaces, forts, temples and lakes. But its identity is not limited to monuments. It also lives in practices like Gavri. Practices that are still performed. Practices that are still remembered. Practices that children grow up watching without necessarily understanding their importance at the time. That is exactly what happened to me.

I watched Gavri as a child at Ambamata Chowk without knowing that years later I would look back and realise that I had witnessed an important part of Mewar's cultural heritage.

And maybe that is why I don't want to describe Gavri only with facts.

Because for me, it is not only a subject to research.

It is something I remember.

My Take: Experience Gavri at Least Once

If you are in Mewar during the Gavri season, I would genuinely suggest experiencing it at least once. Don't worry if you don't understand every word.I didn't either. Watch the expressions. Watch the movements. Listen to the mandal. Look at the audience. Try to understand the story through the artists. You may leave without remembering every character or every dialogue. But you may remember the atmosphere. And sometimes, that is enough.

For me, Gavri represents a side of Mewar that cannot be understood completely through photographs or articles.

You have to be there.

You have to hear the mandal, watch the artists, feel the energy of the gathering.

And perhaps most importantly, you have to experience it with respect.

Because Gavri is not simply a folk performance to tick off from a Rajasthan travel list.

It is a living part of Mewar's cultural heritage—and one that I feel fortunate to have known since childhood.

Written by Pragya Puri Goswami