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Saturday, December 21, 2024
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An exciting and unique three day fair held annually at Tarnetar in Saurashtra, Gujarat. The Tarnetar fair is one of the most colourful events in the state of Gujarat. The fair coincides with the festival at the Trineteshwar temple (three-eyed god Shiva), celebrating the wedding of the legendary 'Mahabharatha' (epic) hero, Arjuna with Draupadi. It is believed that the Swayamwar (marriage) took place in Tarnetar after Arjun performed the Mastsyavedh, an unparalleled feat of archery.
Villagers from all over Saurashtra, dressed in
their traditional costumes and exquisite jewellery throng Tarnetar during this
fair. The fair is a kind of marriage market for the
local tribals-the Kolis, Bharwads and Rabaris who visit Tarnetar to find suitable brides. The tribal youth
elegantly dressed in colourful dhotis, embroidered jackets, eye-catching
turbans and carrying colourful embroidered umbrellas come to be chosen by village belles dressed in colourful finery.
Tradition
holds that if the girl stops to talk to one of the men, it is a sign that she
has found the man of her choice.
Lively
folk songs and dances-garba, ras, hudo and the Rasada, the captivating folk dance performed by hundreds of women
moving gracefully in a single circle, dancing to the accompaniment of drums and
flutes are the special attractions of the fair, besides
the wonderful Tarnetar "Chhatris" -umbrellas with intricate embroidery
and mirror work. There are also exhibitions of rural handicrafts, a cattle show,
and competitive sports.
Gujarat Tourism makes arrangements for guided tours to Tarnetar both from Ahmedabad and Rajkot. With its mouth-watering Gujarati delicacies and typical 'kuba' huts and tent village.
How to get there
Rail : Nearest Railhead is Rajkot, 75 kms from Tarnetar.
Road: State transport buses and private luxury coaches connects various centres of Gujarat.
