On this religious festival tribal from
the neighboring states of Madhya Pradesh
and Gujarat join their brethren from Rajasthan
to offer prayers to Lord Shiva. The Baneshwar
fair is predominantly a tribal fair with
more than half of the congregation consisting
of Bhils.
Baneshwar means the master of the delta
and this name was given to the Shiva linga.
Activities
The temple of Baneshwar Mahadev remains
open from 5.00 a.m. to 11.00 p.m. during
the fair. In the morning, saffron is applied
to the Shiva Linga after it is bathed and
an aarti of burning incense is waved before
it. In the evening, bhabhut (ash) is applied
to the Linga and an aarti with a fine-wick
lamp is waved. Devotees offer wheat flour,
pulses, rice, jaggery, ghee, salt, chillies,
coconut and cash.
The Bhils attending Baneshwar Fair sing
traditional folk songs in high pitched voices
sitting around a bonfire every night. Groups
of villagers are also invited to participate
in the programme. The fair resounds with
the gaiety of songs, folk dances, magic
shows, animal shows and acrobatic feats.
Adding to the excitement are the joy rides
on merry-go-rounds and swings.
How to
reach
Air :
Nearest airport is in Udaipur .
Road :
Rajasthan Roadways have bus services from
Banswara, Udaipur and Dungarpur.
You can also travel by private car/taxi.
