Elephant Festival , Jaipur

India is the original homeland of the Asiatic Elephant. It’s association with the gods and king goes back to the dawn of history. India the King of Gods, rides on a white elephant, Airavata. The elephant is also associated with the Lord Buddha, and Jainism. The colossal size of the animal evokes awe but its docile nature, its graceful movements and its doleful eyes have always fascinated man. It’s majestic presence has been associated with regal splendor and the elephant has always remained as the most important paraphernalia of the king.

Jaipur has a long colorful association with elephants. Huge mountain-like male elephant chosen for their size and beauty of trunk, tusks tail and ears, were procured for the exclusive use of the Maharaja. In royal processions the Maharaja sat on a gold and silver ‘howda’ placed on the back of the most favorite elephant. Scores of others tastefully decorated with dazzling ornaments and gold embroidered velvet Jhalars followed the royal elephant.

There were deadly and fierce elephant-fights in the Chaugan of polo-field, the venue of the Elephant Festival. Rajasthan Tourism revived the tradition by including the Elephant Festival in the cultural calendar. During Holi, the festival of Colors, to herald the advent of Spring, the Jaipur Chaugan is brought alive with elephants, dancers, musicians and onlookers from all the globe. The Festival starts with an impressive procession of the majestic animals lovingly painted and tastefully attired with glittering ornaments and embroidered velvets.

They greet the visitors, offer garlands to the guests and walk past the ramp before a jury of experts and tourists to select the best amongst them for the ‘Best decorated Elephant’ Shield! Witness a game of elephant polo a newly-introduced sport. Though they lack the speed and ability of the polo ponies it is great fun to watch the enormous pachyderms moving around the field after the ball in great speed.

To get a feel of their true strength join your hands with the ten add people in the tug-of-war with the largest elephant. Then there is the unique ‘Gaj Shringar’ exhibition displaying everything connected with the elephant-ornaments, textiles (Jhoo) parapernalic howdahs and carriages, paintings medicines and food.

A program of Dhaph and Gair dance to demonstrate the spirit of Holi and a dazzling display of fireworks complete the day leaving unforgettable memories. Come! Celebrate! You are most cordially welcome to the Elephant Festival.