Pilgrimage in Rajasthan

Pilgrimage in Rajasthan is the finest example of the harmony between culture and science, tradition and modernity, old and new, that exists in India. It is also a fine example of the religious harmony that prevails in the country, despite a not too peaceful past.

Be it the Jain temples of Mount Abu and Ranakpur, the Hindu temples built by the Birlas at Jaipur, the Ajmer Sharif dargah that sees the largest turnout of Muslims in any place in India – all these have been symbols of India’s inherent dichotomy and the harmony that exists between all traditions and beliefs.

One of the most popular pilgrim sites for Hindus in the state is Pushkar. Pushkar is more popular among international travelers due to its annual camel fair, which is held at the same time as the pilgrimage to the holy city. According to legends, when Goddess Parvati had died as Sati and Lord Shiva, maddened by grief, was carrying her body across the earth, one of the goddess’ arms fell where Pushkar now stands. This belief has provided devotees the reason to travel from all over the world to take a dip in the Pushkar Lake, close to the Brahma Temple, the only such temple in the world.

Some other popular pilgrim destinations for Hindus are the Ekling Temple in Udaipur, Shrinath in Nathwara, Rishabhdev in Dhulev, Karni Mata in Deshnok and Govind Devi in Jaipur. Associated with many of these temples are local legends and devout people living in the area come here everyday to offer flowers, sweets, and anything else their pocket and devotion can afford. These temples are old, and it is not just the history that attracts the visitors. The architecture is superb, and it is easy to see that the ancient artisans put their heart and soul into their creation. The deities residing in this temple grant wishes, acknowledge prayers, and keep the villages and areas surrounding the temple safe.

The Jain temples here were built by wealthy Jain merchants and ministers in the kings’ courts. These temples are old, with the Mount Abu temples reportedly having been built between the eleventh and fifteenth centuries. Each of these temples are dedicated to a particular tirthankar, or Jain teacher. The carvings on the sandstone and marble walls and ceilings are superb, and depict not just the Jain teachers, but also lovely demigoddesses and dancers.

Pilgrimage in Rajasthan is about faith, tradition, and piety. But if you were to visit these sites, you will realize that it is also about the timelessness of certain values and an appreciation of beauty, particularly evident in the Jain and Hindu temple architecture.