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Pushkar gears up for annual fair

     Pushkar (Rajasthan): Rajasthan's holy city of Pushkar which is 13 kms from Ajmer, is gearing up for the tourist season. With the popular Pushkar cattle and camel fair commencing from October 29, shopkeepers are optimistic about raking in the moolah during the tourist season. "We are expecting a good business this year compared to last year. Tourists are coming here in large number. Foreigners are also coming here. There is a good season from October to January," said Prashant, a shopkeeper. Tourists too seemed excited about the fair. "We meet many Israeli friends here and they like the place. We have been to several restaurants and they are clean. It's a pleasure to be here," said Hetwa, a foreign tourist.

   Rajasthan's Tourism Minister Usha Punia also feels that the Pushkar fair will attract many foreign tourists this year. "Pushkar is a holy place. People come here every year. We have a Pushkar Fair which is real... its like a real hit with international tourists. They come to enjoy here. And the Brahma Temple is there. So, all these really attract tourists to Pushkar," said Usha Punia, Tourism Minister, Rajasthan. In 2004, around 44000 foreigners visited Pushkar. That figure rose to 64000 in 2005. The Pushkar Mela provides a kaleidoscope of vibrant images and colours. Cultural events showcasing Rajasthan's rich heritage are also a major attraction. Folk dancers and musicians perform at the fair. Textiles and handicrafts are also on display. Devotees also bathe in the Pushkar Lake and pray at the Brahma Temple.
-Sept 27, 2006