Dry, dead, dreary deserts of Rajasthan were brought to life today, with the inauguration of Jaisalmer Desert Festival 2017. This colourful, cultural fest paints a beautiful picture of Rajasthani traditions and folk arts that lure countless spectators from around the world to the heart of the Thar Desert. This year, the golden city of Rajasthan was prepped to welcome the cuddly spring season with a 3-day long extravaganza spanning around the ancient temples, historical havelis and majestic palaces.
Jaisalmer’s desert festival 2017 gives you the much-needed break from the monotony of life and gives you slight glimpses of the exquisite gems of Rajasthan. In case you missed the major events of Day 1, here’s a brief review of what happened when.
Jaisalmer Desert Festival 2017 Day 1: This is What Happened on the Opening Day
- Shobha Yatra:
A colourful street carnival meandered through the narrow alleys of Jaisalmer, representing the vibrant hippie culture of the west. The carnival consisted of street performers, mainly dancers, live musicians and beautiful ladies dressed in traditional clothes, carrying bright earthen pots on their head.
- BSF Camel Contingent
The BSF Camel contingent was the main attraction of the parade. It featured ‘Kamal Band’, the world-famous live band mounted on camel top. The camels were adorned with colourful ornaments and knick knacks that made them appear more beautiful.
- Cultural Competitions
As soon as the ‘Shobha Yatra’ arrived at Poonam Stadium, the desert festival was officially inaugurated. Regional participants participated in various competitions whereas the audience present on spot cheered for their favourite contestants. Amidst great fun and excitement, the names of the winners were announced.
Meet the winners of Desert Festival Awards:
- Moustache Competition: Chandra Prakash Vyas,
- Turban Tying Competition for Foreigners: Florent,
- Turban Tying Competition for Natives: Sareef Khan,
- Mumal-Mahendra Competition: Karni Baal Mandir (I) and Little Hearts School (II).
- Miss Moomal and Mr Desert
The audience was anxiously waiting for this one. Many participants clad in white Rajasthani attire and sporting a colourful turban and the classic ‘royal moustache’ participated in this event. At the end, Mr Kapil Chhangani was declared as the Mr Desert 2017.
It was followed by the announcement of Miss Moomal 2017. The beauties dressed in colourful Rajasthani ‘Ghaghra Choli’ and black metal ornaments arrived a the stage. The title was finally awarded to Monika Bhati. The audience went gaga over the winners. They clicked selfies with the winners.
With this, the first day of the colourful desert festival came to an end. Now the guests look forward to cultural night and fireworks.
