Mewar is often associated with the beautiful lakes of Udaipur, historic palaces, magnificent forts, and the legacy of its rulers. But beyond these familiar landmarks, there is another side of Mewar that lives quietly in everyday life.

It can be found in family gatherings, traditional meals prepared at home, elders sharing stories, regional expressions used in daily conversations, and familiar customs followed year after year.

For many families, traditions are not limited to special occasions. They are part of everyday routines, family relationships, and the way people celebrate happiness, show respect, and stay connected to their roots.

Growing up in Udaipur, I have seen how many of these customs continue to be part of family life. Some are followed just as previous generations practised them, while others have gradually adapted to modern lifestyles.

What makes these traditions special is not simply their age, but the memories and relationships they carry.

Let's explore some of the everyday traditions and cultural practices that continue to connect generations in Mewar.

1. Family Bonds and Respect for Elders

Family has traditionally held an important place in Mewar's social life. In many households, elders are respected for their experience, guidance, and knowledge of family customs.

Touching the feet of elders to seek blessings on special occasions, greeting relatives respectfully, and coming together during family celebrations are practices that many families continue to follow.

Grandparents often play an important role in passing down family stories, local expressions, traditional recipes, and memories of how life used to be.

Some of the most meaningful cultural lessons are learned through ordinary conversations at home. A story shared by a grandparent or a custom explained by a parent can help younger family members understand their family's history.

Every household has its own way of maintaining these relationships, but the feeling of staying connected to family roots remains important.

2. Chabutras and Chotris: Traditional Meeting Spaces Outside Homes

One of the interesting features of traditional homes in Mewar is the presence of small raised seating spaces, commonly known as chabutras or chotris, near the entrance of houses.

These spaces have been a familiar part of traditional neighbourhoods for generations. Whether in villages or the old city areas of Udaipur, such seating spaces can still be found outside many houses.

A chabutra is more than just a place to sit. It often serves as a small community meeting point where neighbours, relatives, and visitors can sit together, exchange news, discuss everyday matters, and spend time talking.

In a way, these traditional spaces function like informal conference rooms, where conversations happen naturally without any formal arrangement.

Whenever someone visits a house, these outside seating spaces can become a comfortable place to sit and talk. Neighbours may also gather there during the day, making them an important part of the social life of a neighbourhood.

What makes this tradition special is its continuity across generations. Although modern homes and lifestyles have changed, chabutras and chotris remain visible outside many traditional houses in Mewar.

They remind us that community connections were not built only inside homes but also through the simple spaces outside them, where people could meet, talk, and stay connected.

3. Traditional Food That Brings Everyone Together

Food is one of the most familiar ways traditions are preserved in Mewar.

Traditional dishes are often prepared during festivals, family gatherings, religious occasions, and visits from relatives. Recipes are shared within families, sometimes passed from one generation to the next without ever being written down.

Mewar's food culture includes dishes such as Dal Baati, Gatte Ki Sabzi, Ker Sangri, and a variety of local snacks and sweets. Everyday meals also include simple preparations made with seasonal ingredients and familiar household recipes.

A Food Tradition I Have Grown Up With

One food tradition that I particularly associate with home is the preparation of laapsi and chawal (rice).

In Mewar, laapsi, chawal and dal baati hold a special place in traditional food preferences and are enjoyed in many households. Along with these familiar favourites, our family also prepares Ker and Kumatiye ki sabzi a day before Sheetla Mata Ji's Poojan. Since it can stay good for several days when properly prepared and stored, it is especially suitable for this occasion.

I have always enjoyed this sabzi. Although Ker and Kumatiye are associated with the food traditions of the Marwar region, we also bring or order these ingredients in Mewar because of our love for their distinctive taste.

For me, this is a beautiful example of how food traditions travel across regions while becoming part of individual family memories.

In many homes, the kitchen is more than a place where meals are prepared. It is where family members talk, exchange stories, learn cooking techniques, and spend time together.

A recipe may change slightly as it passes from one person to another, but the memories attached to it often remain.

4. Festivals That Bring Generations Together

Festivals are an important part of life in Mewar. They offer opportunities for families to meet, participate in rituals, prepare traditional food, and celebrate shared beliefs and customs.

Navratri holds a special place in many households. During these nine days, people visit temples, observe religious practices, dress in traditional clothes, and participate in Garba and Dandiya celebrations.

Navratri: A Tradition I Have Grown Up Following

Navratri has always been a familiar part of my festive calendar. Every year, visiting Ambamata Temple and Bedla Mata Temple during Navratri is an important part of my celebrations.

These visits are not just about offering prayers; they are also a familiar part of the festive season that I look forward to.

Diwali brings its own familiar routines, including cleaning and decorating homes, lighting diyas, preparing sweets, and visiting relatives.

Gangaur is another important festival in Rajasthan's cultural life. In Udaipur, its celebrations are closely associated with the city's historic waterfront, traditional processions, and the cultural identity of Mewar.

Makar Sankranti, Holi, Janmashtami, and other festivals bring their own customs, foods, and family memories.

The way each festival is celebrated may differ from household to household. Yet these occasions continue to give younger family members an opportunity to learn traditions by participating in them.

5. Pooja, Temple Visits, and Faith in Everyday Life

For many families in Mewar, faith is woven into ordinary routines.

Some households begin the morning with a small pooja, lighting a diya, offering prayers, or remembering their chosen deity. Others visit nearby temples regularly or make temple visits an important part of festivals and family occasions.

In and around Udaipur, temples are not only places of worship but also important parts of local history and community life.

Jagdish Temple, Mahakaleshwar Temple, and numerous neighbourhood temples and shrines attract devotees throughout the year.

Beyond well-known temples, smaller local temples often remain meaningful places where residents gather, seek blessings, and maintain long-standing customs.

Religious practices vary between families and individuals. For some, they are part of a fixed daily routine; for others, they become especially important during festivals or difficult moments.

What connects many of these practices is the comfort of familiar rituals and the opportunity to pause, reflect, and feel connected to something larger than everyday responsibilities.

6. Mewari Language, Expressions, and Stories 

Culture is also preserved through the way people speak.

Mewari carries expressions, humour, stories, and ways of describing everyday life that may not translate perfectly into English or Hindi.

Growing up in Udaipur, I have come across many familiar Mewari expressions through conversations with family members, especially my Nani.

Words and phrases such as:

• "Jaeri"

• "Kai kar ri h?"

• "Athe hi ruk ja."

are simple examples of the language I have heard and learned through everyday family conversations.

These expressions may sound ordinary to people who use them regularly, but they carry a sense of familiarity and belonging.

Elders often preserve traditional sayings, folk stories, and memories of earlier times. Conversations about village life, family history, old celebrations, and changes in the city can help younger generations understand the world their grandparents grew up in.

Even when younger people use more Hindi or English in school, work, and online communication, familiar regional expressions can remain an important connection to home.

A language survives not only through books and formal lessons but also through everyday conversations.

7. Traditional Clothing and the Importance of Special Occasions

Traditional clothing continues to be visible in Mewar, particularly during weddings, religious ceremonies, festivals, and cultural celebrations.

Colourful odhnis, sarees, lehengas, turbans, and other traditional garments reflect Rajasthan's rich textile heritage.

The clothing worn depends on the occasion, community, family preferences, and individual style.

For many people, dressing traditionally during a festival or family celebration is a way of honouring the occasion and participating in a shared cultural experience.

At the same time, everyday clothing has evolved with changing lifestyles. People move between traditional and contemporary styles depending on work, comfort, personal preference, and the event.

This balance shows that traditions do not always need to remain unchanged to stay meaningful. They can continue to be part of modern life while allowing individuals to express their own identities.

8. Weddings and Family Celebrations

Weddings in Mewar often bring together extended families, relatives, neighbours, and friends.

Along with the main ceremony, celebrations may include traditional songs, family rituals, special meals, colourful clothing, and customs that vary across communities.

Older family members may explain the significance of particular rituals, while younger relatives participate in preparations, performances, and celebrations.

Birthdays, religious ceremonies, engagements, and other family occasions also provide opportunities for relatives to reconnect.

These gatherings can be busy and sometimes demanding, but they often create memories that families continue to share for years.

For younger generations, participating in family celebrations offers a direct experience of traditions that might otherwise feel distant or unfamiliar.

9. Changing Lifestyles, Lasting Connections

Life in Mewar has changed considerably over time. Education, technology, employment opportunities, travel, and social media have influenced how people live and communicate.

Many young people now study or work away from their hometowns. Families may have less time to gather every day, and some traditional practices may be observed differently than they were in previous generations.

Yet change does not necessarily mean that traditions disappear.

A family might celebrate a festival together over a video call when relatives cannot travel home. Someone living in another city might prepare a traditional dish to feel closer to home. Younger people may share photographs of local festivals online or learn about regional history through digital platforms.

In my view, traditions remain meaningful when they are understood and practised with affection rather than simply followed as a routine.

The way we celebrate, communicate, and live may change, but the memories associated with our families and cultural roots can continue to guide us.

Why Preserving Mewar's Everyday Traditions Matters

The cultural heritage of Mewar is not found only in historical buildings, museum collections, or official celebrations. It also exists in ordinary homes, family recipes, regional language, traditional seating spaces outside houses, religious customs, and the stories people share.

Preserving these traditions does not mean resisting every change. It means recognising which customs hold meaning, understanding their origins where possible, and giving younger generations the opportunity to learn about them.

Families can help by sharing old photographs, documenting family recipes, teaching children regional words, visiting local heritage sites, and encouraging conversations with grandparents.

Writers, photographers, and local storytellers can also help document these everyday experiences respectfully, especially those that are rarely included in conventional travel guides.

Sometimes, the most valuable cultural stories are the ones people consider too ordinary to tell.

Experience Mewar Beyond Its Famous Landmarks

When people visit Udaipur and the wider Mewar region, they often begin with its lakes, palaces, forts, and popular attractions. These places are essential to understanding the region's history, but they are only one part of its identity.

To understand Mewar more deeply, it is also worth paying attention to its everyday life: the food prepared at home, the language spoken among relatives, the chabutras outside traditional houses, the rituals followed during festivals, and the relationships that bring families together.

These experiences may not always appear on a tourist itinerary, but they help explain what makes a place feel like home to the people who live there.

At LakeCity Blog, exploring Rajasthan means looking beyond the landmarks and discovering the culture, memories, traditions, and people that give the region its character.

Because the traditions that connect generations are not simply memories of the past. They are living parts of Mewar's present, carried forward one family, one celebration, and one everyday moment at a time.

About the Author

Written by Pragya Puri Goswami

Founder | LakeCity Blog

A Udaipur-based Rajasthan travel and culture blogger, exploring the region through its heritage, local traditions, food, stories, and unforgettable travel experiences.

Diwali in Rajasthan is much more than a festival of lights. It is a time when homes are cleaned and decorated, traditional rituals bring families together, markets glow with festive decorations, and generations-old customs become part of everyday life. 

In Udaipur, Diwali carries a special charm, reflecting the cultural traditions and heritage of Mewar. Along with Lakshmi Puja and the lighting of diyas, the festival is marked by traditional floor decorations, the worship of Govardhan, distinctive cattle-related customs, family gatherings and the festive atmosphere that spreads across the city.

Growing up in Udaipur, I have watched these traditions being followed in my own home and around the city. Some of my favourite memories are connected with preparing the rangoli, decorating the entrance and making the footprints of Goddess Lakshmi with my own hands.

As Rajasthan continues to embrace modern lifestyles, many families still carry these traditions forward. This is how Diwali is celebrated in the world I have grown up seeing in Udaipur, where many traditions of Mewar continue to thrive.

Why Is Diwali Celebrated?

Diwali, also known as Deepawali, is one of the most important festivals in Hindu tradition. The word Deepawali refers to a row of lamps, symbolising the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.

According to the Ramayana tradition, Diwali commemorates the return of Lord Rama, Goddess Sita and Lakshmana to Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile and the defeat of Ravana. The people of Ayodhya welcomed them by lighting lamps, and this story remains one of the most widely recognised explanations for the celebration of Diwali.

Diwali is also associated with Goddess Lakshmi, who represents prosperity and abundance. On this occasion, families worship Goddess Lakshmi for well-being and prosperity, along with Lord Ganesha for wisdom and auspicious beginnings. Goddess Saraswati is also worshipped in many homes, particularly in connection with knowledge and learning.

In Mewar, these religious beliefs are accompanied by local customs that give the festival its own regional character.

Dhanteras: Auspicious Purchases and Preparations at Home 

Dhanteras marks the beginning of the main Diwali festivities. In 2026, it falls on Friday, 6 November, according to the Udaipur festival calendar.

Buying something new on Dhanteras is a familiar tradition in many Indian households. People purchase gold, silver, utensils, vehicles, electronic gadgets and other items according to their needs and budgets. Buying a new broom and salt is also considered auspicious in some households as part of local beliefs about cleanliness, prosperity and welcoming good fortune.

Dhanteras is associated with the worship of Lord Dhanvantari and Lord Kubera, while many families also worship Goddess Lakshmi. The rituals reflect hopes for good health, financial stability and prosperity in the coming year.

For many families, the preparations begin well before the puja. Homes are cleaned, decorative items are arranged and the shopping areas become busy with people purchasing gifts and festive essentials. 

Roop Chaudas: A Day for Personal Care and Festive Preparation

Roop Chaudas, commonly associated with Narak Chaturdashi and Kali Chaudas in regional observances, falls on Saturday, 7 November, in Udaipur in 2026.

One of the traditions I have grown up seeing is the importance given to personal care on this day. Women and girls prepare themselves for Diwali by bathing, applying ubtan, getting ready and sometimes visiting beauty parlours.

Ubtan, traditionally prepared using ingredients such as gram flour and other household ingredients, has long been associated with skincare and festive preparation. Today, some women follow traditional routines at home, while others choose modern beauty treatments.

I find this part of the celebration interesting because it reflects how traditions evolve with time. The preparation may look different from one household to another, but the excitement of getting ready for Diwali remains.

Diwali Rangoli in Udaipur: A Tradition I Have Grown Up With

One of the traditions I particularly love is preparing the decorations at home.

In my household, the work begins before Diwali itself. We use geru, a traditional red earth pigment, and aaras, a white decorative material used in our local practice, to draw lines and create traditional patterns across parts of the house.

Rangoli is prepared at the main entrance, along the threshold and in the area where Goddess Lakshmi will be worshipped. These decorations are not simply about making the house look beautiful. They are part of welcoming the festival and preparing the home for the puja.

On Roop Chaudas, we fill the prepared rangoli patterns with colours. On Diwali, flowers are added to decorate the designs further, making the entrance and puja area look especially festive.

My favourite part is making the footprints of Goddess Lakshmi with my own hands.

Using alta, or the red ceremonial colour referred to as kanku in our household tradition, I create small footprints leading towards the place where Mataji is to be welcomed. For me, this is one of the most personal and meaningful parts of Diwali preparation.

It is a small ritual, but it connects the decorations of our home with the devotion behind the festival. Every year, it reminds me that some of the most beautiful celebrations are created through simple things we do ourselves.

Lakshmi Puja: The Heart of Diwali Celebrations

Diwali evening is the time for Lakshmi Puja in homes, offices and shops. Businesses also perform puja to seek prosperity and success in the coming year.

In my household, the puja preparations include arranging fruits, sugarcane, ber fruit, betel leaves, flowers, camphor, lacha (sacred thread), coins and other offerings. Gold and silver items, along with money, may also be placed for worship according to family customs.

Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped alongside Lord Ganesha, while Goddess Saraswati is also included in many households' Diwali worship.

After the puja, lighting diyas is one of the most beautiful parts of the celebration. Lamps are placed throughout the home, including the rooftop, courtyard, entrance and mandir. The number of lamps varies from family to family; some households light 7, 21, 51 or even 101 diyas, alongside decorative lights.

Flowers are used to decorate the house, and a vandanwar or toran is hung at the entrance. These decorations create a welcoming atmosphere for family members and visitors.

What makes this evening special to me is the way devotion and decoration come together. The fragrance of flowers, the glow of the lamps and the familiar rituals make the home feel different from every other day of the year.

Govardhan Puja and Khekra: A Distinctive Mewar Tradition

Govardhan Puja is another important part of the Diwali festivities in Mewar. In the local tradition I have grown up seeing, the celebrations include making a small representation of Govardhan using cow dung outside the house.

The figure is worshipped with devotion, and offerings such as curd and rice are placed before it. This custom connects the festival with the importance of cows, rural life and the relationship between people and nature.

The following day, a calf is brought to step over and break the small Govardhan figure as part of the local ritual. The exact practices can vary between households and communities.

For me, this is one of the most distinctive customs associated with Diwali in our region. It is different from the familiar image of Diwali celebrations centred only on lights, sweets and Lakshmi Puja.

The Cattle Celebrations Associated with Nathdwara

One of the most memorable aspects of the wider Mewar celebrations is the attention given to cows and calves, particularly in traditions associated with Nathdwara and Shreenathji.

The cows are beautifully decorated for the occasion. Their horns are painted, cloth and peacock feathers are used as adornments, and intricate designs may be created on their bodies with mehndi and other traditional decorative materials. Some of these designs depict Shreenathji Thakur.

In the celebrations associated with this regional tradition, calves are dressed for the occasion, while the cowherds also arrive in festive attire. The calves are brought out and led around with the cowherds, and the decorated cattle are taken towards the temple as part of the celebrations.

These scenes attract local residents as well as visitors from other parts of India and abroad. People come to witness the colourful procession, the decorated animals and the distinctive traditions associated with the festival.

What makes these customs meaningful is the place cattle have traditionally held in the cultural and rural life of Rajasthan. The celebrations reflect reverence for cows and the connection between faith, agriculture and community life.

Udaipur During Diwali: A City Illuminated by Lights

Diwali brings a different kind of beauty to Udaipur. The city's well-known landmarks, busy markets, roads and neighbourhoods take on a festive appearance.

Areas such as Fateh Sagar, Rani Road, the Old City, Doodh Talai, Padal Puliya, Ashwini Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar are among the places where people can experience the city's festive atmosphere. Decorations and lighting vary from location to location, but the overall feeling is one of celebration and excitement.

Markets become especially lively as families shop for clothes, gifts, sweets, decorations and puja essentials. Shopfronts are decorated, homes are illuminated and people step out to enjoy the festive surroundings.

The lakes and historic areas give Udaipur's celebrations their own character. The combination of traditional architecture, lights and the city's familiar landscape makes this time of year particularly appealing to residents and visitors.

For someone who has grown up here, Diwali is not only about the main festival evening. It is also about watching the city gradually transform as the celebrations approach.

Udaipur's Town Hall Diwali Mela: Shopping, Culture and Entertainment

The Town Hall Diwali Mela is another familiar attraction during the festive season in Udaipur.

The fair brings together shopping, food, entertainment and cultural performances in one place. Visitors can explore stalls selling handicrafts, clothing, household and grocery items, festive goods and food. There are also rides and swings for children and adults.

The mela is especially enjoyable because it brings people from different neighbourhoods together. Families can spend time shopping, trying food and enjoying the festive atmosphere while discovering products from local vendors.

Cultural performances are an important part of the attraction. Depending on the programme, the evenings feature music, folk art, comedy, poetry and other performances. Local artists also receive opportunities to perform, helping bring the city's creative talent to a wider audience.

For the 2026 season, local reports announced cultural evenings at the Town Hall from 28 October to 3 November, with stalls and rides scheduled to continue until 11 November. The programme and individual performances should be checked against the latest local announcements before visiting.

For readers planning a visit, the mela offers a way to experience a more community-oriented side of Diwali beyond shopping in the regular markets.

Bhai Dooj: Celebrating the Bond Between Brothers and Sisters

Bhai Dooj brings the main Diwali festivities to a close for many families. In 2026, it falls on Wednesday, 11 November, according to the Udaipur festival calendar.

In the tradition I have grown up seeing, sisters invite their brothers to their homes for a meal. The occasion may include applying tilak, offering prayers for a brother's well-being and sharing food together.

Like many family festivals, Bhai Dooj can be celebrated differently depending on household customs. For some families, it involves a formal ritual, while for others, the most important part is simply spending time together.

After several days of puja, decorations and celebrations, the day offers another opportunity to strengthen family bonds.

How Diwali Traditions in Mewar Are Changing With Time

Rajasthan is embracing modernisation in many aspects of daily life, and Diwali celebrations are changing along with it. Decorative electric lights, ready-made rangoli designs, online shopping, modern home décor and beauty treatments have become part of the festive season for many families.

Yet traditional customs continue to hold their place. Families still prepare rangoli, light diyas, perform Lakshmi Puja, decorate their entrances and observe regional rituals passed down through generations.

In some homes, traditional preparations are combined with modern conveniences. In others, particular customs are preserved much as elders remember them.

I believe this balance is an important part of Rajasthan's cultural identity. Modernisation does not have to mean leaving old traditions behind. It is possible to welcome new ways of celebrating while continuing the practices that connect us with our families, our hometowns and our cultural roots.

For me, making Mataji's footprints, preparing the rangoli and seeing the home illuminated with diyas are reminders that the meaning of Diwali goes beyond the decorations themselves.

These rituals carry memories, devotion and a sense of belonging.

As Udaipur celebrates another Diwali, I hope these traditions continue to be shared with younger generations—not only as customs to follow, but as meaningful parts of Mewar's living cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Diwali in Udaipur

1. Why is Diwali celebrated?

Diwali is celebrated as a festival of light, prosperity and the victory of good over evil. According to the Ramayana tradition, it commemorates the return of Lord Rama, Goddess Sita and Lakshmana to Ayodhya after fourteen years of exile.

2. How is Diwali celebrated in Udaipur?

Diwali in Udaipur is celebrated with Lakshmi-Ganesh Puja, traditional rangoli, diyas, decorated homes, festive shopping and illuminated markets. Families also observe regional customs associated with the cultural heritage of Mewar.

3. What is the significance of Dhanteras?

Dhanteras marks the beginning of the main Diwali festivities. Many families purchase gold, silver, utensils or other useful items and worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera for prosperity and well-being.

4. What is Roop Chaudas, and how is it celebrated?

Roop Chaudas is associated with Narak Chaturdashi and traditional festive preparation. In many households, women and girls apply ubtan, follow personal-care routines and get ready for Diwali.

5. What is the Khekra tradition in Mewar?

In some local traditions, families create a small representation of Govardhan using cow dung and worship it with offerings such as curd and rice. A subsequent ritual involving a calf stepping over or breaking the figure is also observed in certain households.

6. What is special about the cattle celebrations associated with Nathdwara?

The celebrations feature beautifully decorated cows and calves, painted horns, traditional adornments and, in some cases, decorative designs depicting Shreenathji. These customs reflect the cultural and religious significance of cattle in the region.

7. Where can visitors enjoy Diwali festivities in Udaipur?

Visitors can explore the festive atmosphere around Fateh Sagar, Rani Road, the Old City, Doodh Talai and local markets such as Bapu Bazaar and Ashwini Bazaar. The Town Hall Diwali Mela is another seasonal attraction, subject to its announced dates and programme.

8. What is the traditional significance of rangoli during Diwali?

Rangoli is prepared at entrances and near the place of worship to welcome the festival and create an auspicious setting. In some Mewar households, traditional materials such as geru and aaras are used before colours and flowers are added.

9. When is Diwali celebrated in Udaipur in 2026?

Diwali falls on Sunday, 8 November 2026, according to the Udaipur festival calendar. Associated celebrations include Dhanteras on 6 November, Roop Chaudas on 7 November, Govardhan Puja on 9 November and Bhai Dooj on 11 November.

10. Are traditional Diwali customs still followed in Rajasthan?

Yes. Many families continue to observe traditional puja rituals, prepare rangoli, light diyas and celebrate regional festivals while also embracing modern decorations, shopping habits and ways of celebrating.

About the Author

Pragya Puri Goswami is an Educator and Rajasthan Travel Blogger, and the founder of LakeCity Blog. Through her writing, she explores Rajasthan's heritage, culture, traditions, local businesses, food and travel experiences.

Growing up in Udaipur, she has a special interest in documenting the customs, festivals and everyday cultural practices that make Mewar unique. Through LakeCity Blog, she aims to share authentic local stories and preserve the region's cultural heritage for readers and future generations.

Explore more stories: LakeCity Blog

Karwa Chauth is one of the most cherished festivals celebrated by married Hindu women in Rajasthan. The day is marked by fasting, prayers and traditions associated with the long life of one's husband and the happiness of married life. However, every region has its own customs, and the way Karwa Chauth is celebrated in Udaipur's Old City has a special charm of its own.

Being from the Old City of Udaipur, I have grown up familiar with these local traditions. From beginning the fast before sunrise to visiting Thanak Mandir for Chauth Mata's puja and gathering on a nearby bridge or pulia for the moonrise rituals, our celebration follows a beautiful sequence of customs passed down through generations.

In this article, I am sharing how we celebrate Karwa Chauth in our part of Old Udaipur, Mewar, Rajasthan. 

For readers who wish to know more about the festival's significance, rituals, and traditional observances, Drik Panchang's Karwa Chauth guide offers additional information.

A Tradition I Have Grown Up Watching

My understanding of Karwa Chauth comes from the traditions I have watched my mother and other women in my family follow since childhood. I grew up seeing the preparations, the decorated puja thalis, the evening visit to the temple and the excitement of gathering with other women for the rituals.

As a child, these customs were a familiar part of our family's festive life. Today, I realise that every ritual carries a memory and a connection to the generations before us. The way we celebrate Karwa Chauth in Old Udaipur is not simply something I have read about; it is a tradition I have grown up watching and learning from the women around me.

Through LakeCity Blog, I want to document these local customs in my own words so that the traditions of Mewar can be understood and remembered by future generations.

1. Beginning the Fast Before Sunrise

In our tradition, Karwa Chauth begins early in the morning, around 4 AM. Women have their pre-dawn meal, traditionally known as sargi, before beginning the fast. After this, they observe the fast throughout the day without eating or drinking water.

The day is spent carrying out household activities and preparing for the evening puja. For the women observing the fast, it is a day of devotion, patience and prayers for their husbands and families.

2. Preparing the Puja Thali for Chauth Mata

As evening approaches, women prepare for the most important part of our local celebration: the puja of Chauth Mata at Thanak Mandir.

Before leaving home, we take a bath and get ready for the puja. A traditional karwa (a small pot used in the ritual) is filled with water. A small bowl containing prasad is placed on top of it.

We also arrange the puja samagri in a decorated thali. The items include:

• Deepak (a traditional oil lamp)

• Kumkum

• Lacha (sacred red thread)

• Mehndi

• Gehu (wheat)

• Kapoor (camphor)

• Prasad and other puja essentials

• Rice (Akhe chawal)

• Chudi

• Odhni 

• Karwa 

• Paan leave   

Every item has its place in the ritual, and preparing the thali is an important part of getting ready for the evening.

3. Evening Puja at Thanak Mandir

One of the distinctive parts of Karwa Chauth in our area is visiting Thanak Mandir to worship Chauth Mata.

Women carry their decorated puja thalis and water-filled karwas from their homes to the temple. Once there, they perform the puja using the traditional samagri they have brought with them.

The Karwa Chauth vrat katha is also heard during the puja. Women gather together, offer their prayers and seek the blessings of Chauth Mata for the well-being of their husbands and families.

For us, this temple visit is more than a ritual. It is a tradition that connects our families and community with the customs we have followed for years.

4. Moonrise and the Gathering at the Pulia

After the evening puja, women wait for the moon to appear. In our area, the moon usually rises around 9 PM, although the exact time varies each year.

When the moon becomes visible, women gather at a nearby bridge or pulia for the next part of the celebration. Instead of following the familiar scene often shown in films, where women look at the moon through a sieve, our local ritual has its own distinctive practice.

Women perform the moon puja and then form pairs for the traditional exchange of karwas.

5. The Unique Karwa Exchange Ritual

The exchange of karwas is one of the most memorable parts of Karwa Chauth in our Old City.

Women stand in pairs and exchange their karwas seven times. During this ritual, a traditional dialogue is repeated between the two women.

The woman offering water says:

“Jal dehi, suhag dehi.”

The other woman responds:

“Jal dehi, suhag nahi dehi.”

This exchange continues, and on the seventh round, the words change to:

“Jal bhi dehi, suhag bhi dehi.”

After completing the ritual, women offer water to one another and help each other complete this part of the vrat.

The repeated words, the exchange of karwas and the gathering of women make this custom particularly meaningful. It is a local tradition that deserves to be documented and shared with younger generations.

6. Why We Do Not Break the Fast by Looking Through a Sieve

Many people are familiar with the Karwa Chauth ritual shown in Hindi films, where a woman looks at the moon through a sieve, looks at her husband through the same sieve and then breaks her fast.

However, the tradition we follow in our part of Old Udaipur is different.

Our moonrise ritual includes the moon puja, the seven rounds of karwa exchange and the traditional exchange of water between women. We do not follow the sieve ritual as the central part of our local custom.

Karwa Chauth is celebrated in different ways across India, and these regional differences are an important part of our cultural diversity. The customs familiar from films do not necessarily represent the traditions followed by every family or community.

Sharing these differences helps us understand how one festival can have many beautiful regional expressions.

7. Taking Blessings from Elderly Women

After completing the rituals, women return to their families and seek blessings from the older women in the household or community.

We bow respectfully to the elderly women and receive their blessings for a happy married life, good health and prosperity.

This moment adds a special emotional touch to the celebration. It reflects the respect given to elders and the importance of family blessings in Mewar's cultural traditions.

8. The Significance of Karwa Chauth in Mewar

Karwa Chauth is traditionally observed by married women who pray for the long life of their husbands and the happiness of their married lives.

The festival is also associated with devotion to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, who symbolise marital harmony and an enduring bond between husband and wife.

Through the fast and the evening rituals, women pray for:

• Their husbands' long life and well-being.

• Love, trust and understanding in married life.

• Happiness and harmony within the family.

• Peace, prosperity and abundance in the household.

For many families, these prayers are not limited to the relationship between husband and wife. They also express the hope that the entire family will remain happy, healthy and united.

Preserving the Traditions of Old Udaipur

Udaipur is widely known for its lakes, palaces, heritage and Mewari culture. But the city's cultural identity also lives in the everyday traditions followed by its families.

Karwa Chauth in our part of the Old City is not just about fasting until moonrise. It is about preparing the puja thali at home, visiting Thanak Mandir, listening to the vrat katha, gathering at the pulia, exchanging karwas seven times and seeking blessings from elders.

These customs are part of the cultural memories we inherit from previous generations. By sharing them, we can help younger generations understand how festivals are celebrated in their own communities and why these traditions matter.

For me, documenting such local customs is one way to preserve the heritage of Mewar and share the authentic cultural stories of Udaipur with the world.

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

An exclusive LakeCity Blog feature on the story behind Ruhaniyat, the challenges of independent musicians, and the vision of creating a musical experience that goes beyond entertainment.

1. A Guitar, a Small Village and the Beginning of a Dream

Deepak’s musical journey began in 2013, when he moved to Kota. Coming from a small village near Chittorgarh, he had limited exposure to musical instruments. Until then, he had mostly seen guitars and other instruments on television.

Everything changed when he met a musician friend who could play the guitar and sing. Watching him perform sparked Deepak’s curiosity, and he wanted to learn the same skill. When he approached his friend, however, he was told that there was no time to teach him.

Instead of giving up, Deepak decided to buy a guitar after his roommate suggested the idea. He soon realised that owning an instrument was only the beginning; he needed guidance to learn how to play it.

A local friend introduced him to Yadav Sir, a guitar teacher. On his first day, the teacher asked Deepak why he wanted to learn music. Deepak honestly admitted that he was attracted to the attention musicians received. His teacher told him that he should learn only if he was genuinely willing to commit himself to music.

Deepak decided to continue. He spent approximately a month and a half learning the basics, including the musical notes Sa Re Ga Ma Pa. However, with his Class 12 board examinations approaching, he had to discontinue his lessons and return home.

2. Learning Through Friendship: The Role of Harsh

When Deepak returned to Chittorgarh in 2014, opportunities for learning music were limited. There were very few teachers, no established music-learning culture like the one he was looking for, and no convenient way to travel daily from his village, which was around 10 kilometres from the city.

During this period, he connected with Harsh, a junior who was a talented guitarist.

Deepak began learning by observing Harsh play. Although Harsh did not teach through written notes or a formal lesson structure, he was always willing to demonstrate anything Deepak wanted to learn.

After his Class 12 examinations, the two started meeting almost every day. They often visited Chittorgarh Fort, where they could practise freely for three to four hours.

Their sessions became an opportunity to experiment with songs, guitar arrangements and vocals. Harsh encouraged Deepak to explore new music and helped him understand that singing was not just an instinctive talent; it could also be developed through practice and proper training.

He introduced Deepak to the idea of vocal practice, harmonium and tanpura. These concepts were unfamiliar to someone who had grown up with limited access to formal musical education.

Deepak would record Harsh playing the guitar, take the recordings home and practise on his own. The months before college helped him strengthen his foundation and develop a deeper connection with music.

3. College, Mohit and Deepak’s First Performances

College introduced Deepak to new friendships and opportunities. One of the most influential people during this period was Mohit, his relative and friend, who consistently encouraged him to take music seriously.

Deepak performed a couple of songs at his college fresher’s party. At first, he participated because he wanted to showcase something he could do, but Mohit saw potential in his voice and encouraged him to perform more often.

Mohit continued motivating him before competitions and performances, helping him build the confidence to step onto the stage.

During his second year, Deepak also connected with other aspiring musicians through mutual friends. Their shared interest eventually led to the formation of a band and their first independent performance at Lake City Mall in Udaipur around 2015–2016.

The group wanted to move beyond conventional orchestra-style performances, which were popular at the time. Rather than reproducing songs exactly as audiences already knew them, they experimented with improvisation, mashups and fresh arrangements of Bollywood music.

Their vision was simple: familiar songs could sound different while retaining the emotions that made people love them.

However, the audience was not immediately ready for this approach. Many listeners preferred traditional arrangements and familiar old songs. Although some appreciated the experimentation, the band struggled to secure regular bookings for private parties and other events.

The experience taught Deepak an important lesson: creating something different is only one part of the journey; helping people understand and accept it can be equally challenging.

4. The Struggles Behind an Independent Music Career

Deepak’s early experiences in the music industry involved considerable sacrifice. He worked with other musicians, played guitar at performances and sometimes worked without payment simply to observe experienced artists and understand how live shows operated.

He also helped senior musicians pack their equipment and perform other tasks. These experiences gave him exposure, but they also showed him how difficult it could be for newcomers to find opportunities without established contacts or financial resources.

At that time, social media was not as influential in securing performance opportunities as it is today. Deepak did not realise that uploading music videos could help artists reach potential clients and build an audience.

His family was concerned about the uncertainty of a musical career and encouraged him to pursue a government job. After graduation, he began preparing for competitive examinations and also explored shorthand.

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted both his studies and his performance opportunities. His mother became seriously ill during the second wave, and caring for her became a priority. As a result, his studies and musical connections suffered.

Later, his father also experienced serious health problems, creating further responsibilities for Deepak.

For a period, he stepped away from regular performances. However, his connection with music remained, and he eventually found his way back to the stage.

5. Returning to Music Through Cafés and Restaurants

Deepak gradually restarted his career by performing at cafés and restaurants in Udaipur. He began as a solo artist, relying on his singing and the experience he had gained over the years.

Whenever a performance required additional musicians, he started inviting drummers and other instrumentalists to join him.

His earnings during this phase were modest, generally around ₹1,500–₹2,000 per solo performance. Nevertheless, these shows helped him rebuild his professional network, gain visibility and become more confident as a performer.

Over time, different musicians joined him, although many collaborations were temporary. He wanted to build something more stable: a team of musicians who could grow together and create a distinct musical identity.

That ambition eventually led him to Hemant Rao.

6. Hemant Rao: A Voice That Helped Shape the Vision

Deepak describes Hemant Rao as a talented musician with a genuine personality. Based in Udaipur, Hemant is known for his tabla playing and singing, with experience performing alongside established artists such as Master Saleem and Hemant Brijwasi.

Music was part of Hemant’s life from childhood. His family had a background in performance, and his mother had travelled internationally as a dancer.

Despite his musical experience, financial limitations and family responsibilities made it difficult for Hemant to pursue his ambitions as a singer. As a married man with three children, he could not easily give up his existing work as a tabla player to explore another career path.

During a conversation, Hemant shared his desire to sing but explained the challenges of starting without financial support.

Deepak recognised something special in Hemant’s voice, particularly its Sufi character. Their discussions gradually developed into a shared idea: bringing together musicians from different backgrounds to create a group that would allow each artist to contribute their individual strengths.

For Deepak, the collaboration was not simply about finding another vocalist. It was an opportunity to create something meaningful with artists who had talent but needed the right environment to explore it.

7. How Ruhaniyat Took Shape in June 2026

Deepak and Hemant spent time discussing songs, preparing a setlist and planning arrangements. Finding the right musicians and coordinating their schedules took several months, while both continued their regular performances at cafés and restaurants.

Eventually, they decided to begin.

The first jam session took place on 8 June 2026 at White City Studio in Udaipur. Around seven musicians came together, each bringing a different musical background and perspective.

Some had experience with ghazals, others with traditional folk music, Bollywood or Sufi music. A few members were relatively new to performing on stage.

Their first session lasted approximately three hours. Deepak was surprised by how naturally the different musical influences came together.

The group continued meeting throughout June, holding multiple jam sessions to refine arrangements, experiment with songs and strengthen their coordination. Deepak estimates that they have completed approximately 25–30 jam sessions.

The project began taking shape under the name Ruhaniyat, with the musicians working towards a common musical identity. Deepak mentioned that registration-related considerations might require a name change in the future.

8. Meet the Musicians Behind Ruhaniyat

Ruhaniyat brings together seven musicians, each contributing a different skill and musical background.

Deepak — Lead Vocalist

Deepak’s musical foundation is rooted in Bollywood music. His journey from learning guitar in Kota to performing at venues across Udaipur has shaped his interest in improvisation and live musical arrangements.

Hemant Rao — Sufi Vocalist and Tabla Player

Hemant brings a Sufi vocal style and strong tabla-playing experience to the group. His voice provides an important contrast to Deepak’s Bollywood repertoire.

Sonu Goyal — Keyboardist and Vocalist

Sonu comes from a small village and belongs to a family involved in wedding-band performances. He plays the keyboard and octapad and is also a singer. Deepak admires his ability to listen to a musical piece and reproduce it with remarkable accuracy. Sonu has also worked with established folk artists, including Mame Khan and Khadte Khan.

Jatin — Guitarist and Show Management

Jatin contributes guitar arrangements and helps manage the band's finances and performance coordination. His role extends beyond playing music, supporting the practical organisation required to run the group.

Rohit — Drummer

Rohit is among the newer musicians in the team. He began his drumming journey with the band and has been developing his skills through practice and performances.

Tushar — Tabla, Dholak, Harmonium and Backing Vocals

Tushar contributes percussion, backing vocals and experience with traditional instruments. His musical abilities include tabla, dholak and harmonium.

Deepak’s Dholak Player

The seventh member is a dholak player with experience in jagrata performances. His background in devotional music adds another dimension to the band's musical diversity.

Together, these musicians bring Bollywood, Sufi, folk and traditional influences into a shared live-performance format.

Note: Confirm the seventh member’s full name and the preferred spelling of each member’s name before publication.

9. The First Show: A Memorable Beginning in Kapasan

Ruhaniyat performed its first show in Kapasan, outside Udaipur, approximately eleven days after its first jam session.

The opportunity came through a client who was also a musician. After learning about Deepak’s work, the client offered the group a chance to perform and expressed a willingness to support them.

The performance took place at a hotel. Deepak remembers the hospitality and respect the team received, describing the experience as one in which the musicians were treated like members of the family rather than simply hired performers.

The technical arrangements were not ideal. Because the venue was in a relatively remote area, the sound equipment and available facilities could not fully match the group's expectations. Nevertheless, the sound vendor supported the musicians with the resources available.

For Deepak, the show became memorable for a reason that went beyond the performance itself.

Hemant, who had long wanted to step forward as a singer, became emotional after seeing that ambition begin to turn into reality. He expressed his gratitude to Deepak for helping him pursue that dream.

Deepak, however, did not see himself as the person responsible for Hemant’s success. He felt he had simply helped create an opportunity for a talented artist to take the next step.

The experience strengthened their bond. Their relationship gradually grew beyond a professional collaboration, extending to their families as well.

For Deepak, this was the beginning of something that felt more like a family than a conventional band.

10. What Makes Ruhaniyat Different From Other Live Bands?

Deepak believes Ruhaniyat’s identity lies in its commitment to live musicianship, experimentation and audience experience.

The group focuses on combining Bollywood and Sufi music while introducing fresh arrangements that allow listeners to experience familiar songs differently.

Rather than relying on pre-recorded backing tracks, the band aims to perform with its musicians playing live. Deepak sees this as essential to the group's identity.

He believes that the contribution of instrumentalists is often overlooked, even though singers depend on the musicians who provide rhythm, harmony and the musical foundation of a performance.

He is concerned about the increasing use of pre-recorded tracks and software-based arrangements when they replace opportunities for live musicians. For Ruhaniyat, the aim is to preserve the interaction and spontaneity that come from performing together.

The group also customises its setlists according to the event and audience. Deepak wants every performance to feel different rather than becoming a repetition of the same songs and arrangements.

For the band, the quality of the experience matters more than simply completing a booking.

Deepak explains this philosophy through a simple example: if a client spends ₹50,000 on a performance, the band should aim to deliver an experience that feels worth far more than the amount paid.

His focus is on making people connect with the music, enjoy the moment and leave feeling that their expectations have been exceeded.

11. Music as a Source of Peace and Spiritual Connection

For Deepak, music is not merely a profession or a source of income. It provides emotional stability, confidence and a sense of connection with something greater than himself.

He comes from a Vaishnava Brahmin family and has maintained a personal spiritual routine that includes visiting temples. He believes music can be a powerful way of experiencing devotion and connecting with God.

He also feels that music can offer people a moment of relief from the pressures of everyday life.

People may be dealing with financial responsibilities, health concerns, professional challenges or personal difficulties. Deepak wants Ruhaniyat’s performances to provide an environment in which listeners can temporarily step away from those worries and immerse themselves in music.

He does not see the audience merely as clients. He sees each performance as an opportunity to express himself and create an emotional connection with the people listening.

This philosophy also informs an idea the group may explore in the future: presenting devotional music in a contemporary format through the growing concept of bhajan clubbing.

However, Deepak clarified that this is still under consideration. For now, Ruhaniyat is concentrating on developing its Bollywood and Sufi repertoire before expanding into other musical formats.

12. The Importance of Family and Personal Support

Behind Deepak’s musical journey is a support system that has helped him continue despite uncertainty.

He credits music with helping him overcome shyness, develop his personality and become more confident in dealing with people. He also recalls taking responsibility for his father’s medical treatment in Ahmedabad during a difficult period, an experience that demonstrated how much he had grown beyond his earlier limitations.

Deepak’s wife has become another important source of encouragement. When they discussed his profession, he was honest about the uncertainty of a musician’s income. Some months are financially manageable, while others can be difficult.

Rather than discouraging him, she encouraged him to continue pursuing music. She told him that the happiness she saw on his face when he performed was worth more than material measures of success.

Her support has helped Deepak remain committed to his work, even when financial pressures and self-doubt arise.

His parents, who were initially concerned about music as a career, have also gradually become more accepting of his decision.

Deepak believes he inherited his voice from his father, who is also a talented singer. His father, however, could not pursue music professionally because his own father passed away early, leaving him with household responsibilities at a young age.

He began working in the mines to support his family, and his musical ambitions remained a personal passion rather than a profession.

For Deepak, his own journey represents an opportunity to pursue something that previous generations in his family could not.

13. Building a Better Future for Musicians

One of Deepak’s strongest ambitions is to create better opportunities for the musicians who work with him.

Having experienced unpaid work, limited exposure and a lack of guidance, he understands how easily talented artists can become discouraged. He has seen musicians leave the profession because they could not find the right opportunities or were not compensated fairly.

He is particularly concerned about the imbalance between what a performer earns and what supporting musicians receive. In his view, instrumentalists should not be treated as less important simply because they are not the main face of a show.

Deepak believes that a singer cannot create a complete live performance alone. The tabla, harmonium, drums, guitar and other instruments all contribute to the final experience.

He wants the people who have stood beside him during the early stages of his career to have the opportunity to grow with him in the future.

His philosophy is rooted in shared effort and fair compensation. As the band develops and earns more, he wants its members to benefit meaningfully from that progress.

He also hopes to guide upcoming musicians by sharing what he has learned. Since he did not always have access to experienced mentors, he wants to provide younger artists with the practical advice and opportunities he once needed.

He believes newcomers should build a strong musical foundation through classical training and regular practice, rather than having to discover every essential lesson through years of trial and error.

For Deepak, success would mean more than achieving personal recognition. It would also mean helping other musicians avoid unnecessary struggles and build sustainable careers.

14. Future Plans: Original Songs, Covers and Collaborations

Ruhaniyat’s immediate focus is on strengthening its live performances, refining its arrangements and expanding its audience.

The band has already written some original songs and plans to record and release them. It also intends to create cover versions of familiar Bollywood songs, introducing improvisations and contemporary arrangements while retaining their emotional appeal.

Deepak mentioned that the group has experimented with collaborations involving songs in Tamil and Kannada. Out of four songs explored in one such project, one was selected for further consideration. The musicians are looking into possible opportunities to take the project forward.

He also mentioned other potential collaborations that cannot yet be publicly disclosed.

In addition to original music and covers, the band plans to continue its jam sessions and explore more performance opportunities both within and outside Udaipur.

Deepak continues performing at cafés and restaurants alongside his work with Ruhaniyat. This helps him meet his financial responsibilities while investing time and resources in the band's development.

For now, the focus is on growing steadily, building a recognisable sound and allowing audiences to discover what the group has to offer.

15. What Ruhaniyat Means to Deepak

When asked to describe Ruhaniyat in one line, Deepak describes it as a family and a collection of moments he does not want to step away from.

He wants the people who supported him during the early stages to remain part of the journey as it grows. The band represents not only a shared professional ambition but also a bond built through practice sessions, financial challenges, travel and a common love for music.

Even when money is limited, the musicians try to meet, rehearse and improve their sound. Some days, they manage their expenses with very little, but they continue showing up for the music.

Deepak hopes to remain grounded regardless of how far the band progresses. If younger musicians approach him seeking guidance, he wants to give them time, share his experiences and help them find a clearer path.

For him, the ultimate goal is to create a musical environment where artists are valued, musicians are treated fairly and audiences receive an experience that stays with them.

Conclusion: A Musical Journey Still in the Making

Ruhaniyat’s story brings together different journeys: Deepak’s early curiosity about the guitar, years of learning through friendship, the challenges of building a career in music, Hemant Rao’s desire to step forward as a vocalist, and the collaboration of seven musicians with distinct musical backgrounds.

From its first jam session at White City Studio on 8 June 2026 to its first performance in Kapasan, the group has begun building an identity centred on live music, improvisation and meaningful connections.

Its plans for original songs, reimagined Bollywood covers and future collaborations reflect a desire to offer something beyond conventional live entertainment.

For Deepak, the ambition is equally personal. He wants to continue pursuing music, create opportunities for fellow musicians and build a team where success is shared rather than enjoyed by one person alone.

As Ruhaniyat develops, its journey will depend on the musicians' continued commitment, the opportunities they receive and the response of their audiences.

One thing remains central to Deepak’s vision: music should bring people together, give artists room to grow and create moments that are worth remembering.

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

For me, Navratri in Udaipur has never been only about Garba.

Yes, I love getting ready in traditional clothes, going out in the evening and enjoying the festive energy around the city. But there is another part of Navratri that is much more personal to me—visiting Mata Ji temples for darshan.

Every year during Navratri, I make time to visit Ambamata and Bedla Mata. These visits have slowly become a part of my Navratri routine.

And once you start exploring Udaipur from this side, you realise that the city has so many Mata temples, each with its own story, local belief and atmosphere.

So in this post, I am sharing some of the Mata temples that you can include in your Navratri darshan plans—from the temples I personally visit every year to the ones that are known for their unique traditions.

This is not meant to be just a list of temples.

It is my personal Udaipur Navratri temple guide.

Navratri in Udaipur Is More Than Garba

When we think about Navratri, the first thing that usually comes to mind is Garba.

And Udaipur definitely has its share of colourful Garba nights.

But for me, Navratri feels incomplete without visiting Mata Ji.

There is something very different about entering a temple during these nine days.

The atmosphere, the decorations, the devotees, the sound of aarti and the feeling of standing in front of Mata Ji—it all feels more special during Navratri.

Some people have their own family traditions during these days.

For me, one of mine is visiting Ambamata and Bedla Mata.

1. Ambamata – One of My Regular Navratri Darshan Places

Ambamata is the first temple I want to talk about because I personally visit here during Navratri every year.

It is not just a place I found while searching for famous temples in Udaipur.

It has become a part of my own Navratri routine.

During Navratri, I like visiting Mata Ji, spending some quiet time there and simply taking in the atmosphere.

The temple is also officially listed among Udaipur's heritage religious buildings, and the Rajasthan tourism portal describes the temple's festival atmosphere during Navratri as particularly vibrant. Udaipur Municipal Corporation+1

Why Ambamata Is Special to Me

I think sometimes a place becomes special not because of how famous it is, but because of the memories you create there.

That is how I feel about Ambamata.

Every year when Navratri comes around, visiting Ambamata feels like one of those things I naturally want to do.

There is no complicated plan.

I just want to go, have darshan and come back with that peaceful feeling.

And perhaps that is what makes religious places special—they slowly become a part of your personal life.

During Navratri

The temple gets a different kind of energy during Navratri.

There are devotees coming for darshan, festive activity around the temple and a stronger sense of celebration.

If you are visiting Udaipur during Navratri, I would suggest keeping some time aside for Ambamata instead of spending all your evenings only at Garba events.

2. Bedla Mata – Another Temple I Visit Every Navratri

If Ambamata is a regular part of my Navratri routine, Bedla Mata is another place I personally make time for every year.

The temple is located in Bedla, around 8 km from Udaipur city, and is associated with the Bedla estate as its traditional family deity. A 2025 Navratri report also noted that devotees from across the Mewar region visit the temple in large numbers during the nine days. NDTV Rajasthan

For me, Bedla Mata has a very different feeling from simply visiting a tourist attraction.

I go there for darshan.

And because I have been visiting during Navratri, I have my own emotional connection with the place.

What Makes Bedla Mata Different?

The temple is also known as Sukh Devi Mata, and several beliefs are associated with the shrine.

According to local belief, devotees come here with their wishes and make vows, and offerings are made after wishes are fulfilled. These are matters of faith and tradition rather than something I would present as a factual guarantee. NDTV Rajasthan

That is something I always like to keep in mind while writing about temples.

Faith is personal.

What one devotee experiences spiritually may not be the same for another person.

And that is perfectly okay.

My Navratri Tradition: Ambamata + Bedla Mata

If I had to describe my personal Navratri routine in Udaipur, these two temples would definitely be part of it.

I visit Ambamata.

I visit Bedla Mata.

And somewhere between these temple visits, there is Garba, getting dressed up, meeting people and enjoying the festive atmosphere.

That is my version of Navratri.

It is not only about dancing.

It is also about taking a little time for yourself, remembering your traditions and starting these nine days with blessings.

3. Neemach Mata – The Hilltop Temple With a View

Then comes Neemach Mata, one of the temples I would definitely recommend adding to your Udaipur temple list.

The temple is situated on Dewali Hill, overlooking the city and Fateh Sagar area.

The official temple website says the shrine is located on the hill at around 1,000 metres elevation and traces its temple history to the Mewar period. Nimach Matta Udaipur

The Udaipur Municipal Corporation also includes Neemach Mata Temple in its heritage listing of religious buildings. Udaipur Municipal Corporation

But honestly, one of the things that makes a visit here memorable is the journey to the top.

You can experience the climb and then look back at Udaipur from above.

And that view is a beautiful bonus along with darshan.

Neemach Mata During Navratri

During Navratri, this is naturally a popular place for devotees.

So if you are planning a visit, keep in mind that the experience may be more crowded than on a regular day.

For me, Neemach Mata is one of those places where the spiritual experience and the beauty of Udaipur come together.

4. Mansapurna Karni Mata – Darshan With a City View

Another famous temple in Udaipur is Mansapurna Karni Mata Temple, situated on Machla Magra Hill.

What I particularly like about this temple is that even reaching the temple becomes part of the experience.

You can climb the stairs or use the ropeway from Deendayal Upadhyay Park.

The Government of India's Incredible India portal notes that the temple was built during Maharana Karan Singh's reign, around 1620–1628, and that the temple is now accessible by a 387-metre ropeway. Incredible India

And then there is the view.

Standing up there and looking towards Udaipur is a completely different experience.

If You Are Visiting During Navratri

I would personally keep this visit separate from a busy Garba evening.

Go with enough time.

Have darshan.

Spend a few minutes enjoying the surroundings.

And then come back.

That way, the temple visit doesn't feel rushed.

5. Kalika Mata – A Local Temple to Add to Your List

Kalika Mata is another name that comes up when talking about Mata temples around Udaipur.

This is one of those places where I would recommend checking the exact location and current temple timings before planning your visit, because similarly named Kalika Mata temples exist in different parts of Rajasthan.

For my blog, I prefer to keep this section simple rather than adding an unverified historical story.

If you are someone who enjoys exploring local temples beyond the most famous tourist attractions, you can include Kalika Mata in your Navratri darshan plans.

And if you have already visited, you will understand that every local temple has its own atmosphere.

6. Idana Mata – The Temple Famous for Agni Snan

Now comes one of the most fascinating temples associated with the Udaipur/Mewar region—Idana Mata.

And this one is completely different from the other temples on this list.

Idana Mata Temple is located in the Bambora/Idana area, around 60 km from Udaipur city. It is known for the traditional belief surrounding Mata Ji's Agni Snan, or fire bath. Apple Maps+1

According to local belief and reports about the temple, flames sometimes appear around the shrine and the event is referred to as Mata Ji's Agni Snan.

The phenomenon has been reported several times in recent years, including an incident in January 2026. NDTV Rajasthan

What Makes Idana Mata So Unique?

One of the most striking things about Idana Mata is that the shrine is associated with an open-air setting rather than the kind of enclosed temple structure we usually imagine.

Local traditions say that Mata Ji resides under the open sky, beneath a large banyan tree. DesiRajasthan+1

And then there is the Agni Snan.

According to devotees and local tradition, when this phenomenon occurs, the fire burns offerings and clothing around the shrine, while reports have noted that the idol itself remains unharmed. NDTV Rajasthan

I would describe this as a religious belief and a reported phenomenon, rather than making scientific claims about why it happens.

That distinction is important when we write about faith.

Would I Plan a Special Visit Here?

Yes—but with proper planning.

Idana Mata is not an everyday city-centre temple like Ambamata.

It is a destination you plan for.

If you are staying in Udaipur and want to explore something beyond the usual city itinerary during Navratri, this can become a separate day trip.

7. Avrai Mata – A More Local Side of Udaipur

Avrai Mata is another local Mata shrine that can be included in a Udaipur-region Navratri temple list.

What I like about including temples like this in a local guide is that Udaipur's religious landscape is not limited to the temples that appear on every tourist itinerary.

There are many local shrines that are deeply connected with the faith and traditions of nearby communities.

For Avrai Mata, I would personally prefer to let your own experience lead this section rather than filling it with generic internet information.

If you have visited Avrai Mata during Navratri, this is a perfect place to add your own details:

• When you usually go

• What the atmosphere feels like

• How you travel there

• What you personally notice

• Whether you visit with family or friends

• What makes you return

That kind of information is much more valuable to your readers than a copied temple description.

8. Gatawale Mata Ji – Another Local Darshan Stop

The same goes for Gatawale Mata Ji.

This is the kind of temple I want to include because my goal with this article is not simply to create a list of “Top 5 Famous Temples in Udaipur.”

I want to show the local side of Navratri.

The places people actually visit.

The temples connected with local faith.

The small traditions that may not always appear in a standard tourist guide.

If you have personally visited Gatawale Mata Ji, this section can become one of the most authentic parts of the article once we add your experience.

My Udaipur Navratri Temple List at a Glance

How I Would Plan a Navratri Temple Day in Udaipur

If you are visiting Udaipur during Navratri and want to combine temples with sightseeing, I wouldn't try to cover everything in one day.

That would make the whole experience feel rushed.

Instead, I would divide it.

Day 1 – Old Udaipur + Ambamata

Start with Ambamata darshan.

Then explore the Old City.

In the evening, you can go for Garba around Jagdish Chowk or another organised venue.

Day 2 – Bedla Mata + Nearby Udaipur

Visit Bedla Mata during the day.

Keep the evening free for Garba or a relaxed city outing.

Day 3 – Neemach Mata

Plan Neemach Mata separately.

Give yourself enough time for the journey, darshan and the view from the hill.

Day 4 – Karni Mata

Visit Mansapurna Karni Mata and combine it with the Doodh Talai/Machla Magra side of Udaipur.

Day 5 – Idana Mata Day Trip

If you have a full day available, plan Idana Mata separately.

Because it is outside the main city, don't try to squeeze it between two other temple visits.

A Small Reminder About Temple Visits During Navratri

Navratri is one of the busiest times to visit popular temples.

So before leaving, I would always check:

• Current darshan timings

• Any special Navratri arrangements

• Traffic and parking conditions

• Whether there are queues or special entry arrangements

• Current road conditions if travelling outside Udaipur

• Any changes announced by the temple management

And please remember that temple timings can change during festivals.

So the information you find online should be treated as a guide, not a guarantee.

Why I Keep Coming Back Every Navratri

I think this is the part that is hardest to explain in a travel blog.

You can write about a temple.

You can write its history.

You can tell someone where it is.

You can add photographs.

But the feeling of going there every year is something different.

For me, visiting Ambamata and Bedla Mata during Navratri has become a tradition.

I don't go because I have to tick a place off a list.

I go because it feels like Navratri.

There is something comforting about doing something you have done year after year.

Maybe the crowd changes.

Maybe the city changes.

Maybe life changes.

But you still find yourself standing in front of Mata Ji during Navratri.

And that feeling is very personal.

Garba + Mata Darshan: My Perfect Udaipur Navratri

If you ask me what my ideal Navratri in Udaipur looks like, it would be a combination of both sides of the festival.

A little time for darshan.

A little time for family.

A little time for getting dressed up.

A little time for Garba.

And a little time simply enjoying the festive atmosphere of Udaipur.

That is why I don't think you should experience Udaipur's Navratri only through Garba events.

Go to a temple.

Walk around the Old City.

Visit a hilltop Mata temple.

If you have time, take a day trip to Idana Mata.

And then, of course, end the evening with Garba!

That, for me, is the real Udaipur Navratri experience.

Final Thoughts

Udaipur has many beautiful temples, but during Navratri they take on a completely different atmosphere.

For me, Ambamata and Bedla Mata will always have a special place because visiting them has become part of my own Navratri tradition.

Then there are places like Neemach Mata and Karni Mata, where the spiritual experience comes with beautiful views of the city.

And then there is Idana Mata, whose Agni Snan tradition makes it one of the most unusual religious destinations around Udaipur.

Every temple has something different.

But you don't have to visit all of them.

Choose the ones that interest you, take your time, and experience them without rushing.

Because sometimes the best part of a temple visit is not how many places you covered.

It is how you felt when you came back.

And for me, that is what Navratri is all about.

Jai Mata Di ❤️

Quick Udaipur Navratri Temple Guide

For my personal Navratri tradition:
Ambamata + Bedla Mata ❤️

For a hilltop temple experience:
Neemach Mata

For temple + city views:
Mansapurna Karni Mata

For a unique religious tradition:
Idana Mata & its Agni Snan tradition

For exploring the local side of Udaipur:
Avrai Mata + Gatawale Mata Ji + Kalika Mata

And for the complete Navratri experience:
Mata Darshan + Old City + Garba

Also Read

Udaipur Navratri & Garba 2026: Jagdish Chowk, Field Club & Famous Garba Places

If you are visiting Udaipur during Navratri, don't stop at temple visits. I have also shared my guide to Garba in Udaipur, including my personal experience of Jagdish Chowk, along with organised Garba venues and practical tips.

Internal link: Post 1 — Udaipur Navratri & Garba 2026: Jagdish Chowk, Field Club & Famous Garba Places

written by lakecity-blog.