Kalidevi Fair, Karauli

Rajasthan Tour Travel > Rajasthan Fair Festivals >

The fair of Kaila Devi, popularly known as Mahalakshmi, (the goddess of wealth), holds an important place among the celebrated fairs of Rajasthan. The fair is held at the village Kaila in Karauli district in the month of Chaitra, starting from Chaitra Budi 12 and lasting for a fortnight.

 The temple of Kaila Devi is located on the banks of the Kalisil river in the hills of Trikut, 2 kms. to the north-west of Kaila village. It houses the images of Mahalakshmi and Chamunda. Kaila Devi has been regarded as the guardian deity throughout the ages by the khinchis, the yadavas and the princes of Karauli. The devotees bring with them cash, coconuts, kajal (kohl), tikki (vermilion), sweets and bangles as offerings to the goddess. The rutual of Kanak-Dandoti is observed by the staunch devotees. They cover a distance of 15 to 20 kms. to reach the temple, not on foot but by lying prostrate, making lines with their hands in that positioin, advancing upto the line drawn and repeating this procedure till they reach the temple.

    The fair is visited by a large number of traders who set up their shops and sell a variety of indigenous products.
Groups of Mina tribesmen arrive in a spirit of gaiety-dancing, singing and creating a lively atmosphere. The spacious courtyard becomes the venue for dances and songs sung in praise of the deities.