Programme: Ashwa Poojan Ceremony 2012
A Timeless Gratitude To Equinity
You see him from the corner of your eye; his taut muscles, shining coat and a nodding head instantly make you pause. Even as you walk towards him his neighing increases, creating a comfort level. That's what a horse does to you. There's an instant bonding which takes place with this magnificent animal. As far as Rajputs are concerned there is no better companion for them than their loyal and beloved horse. The relationship between the two can be dated back to many centuries in the past. Both have grown up respecting and loving each other more and more with time.
Rajputs have proven to be great warriors in history but one will never find a Rajput going into the battle field without his loyal horse by his side. 'Chetak' – the brave and mighty horse belonging to Maharana Pratap is an example of the relationship a Rajput shares with his horse. Paying respect and honor to the horse in recognition of his unfailing contribution to the survival of the Rajput race, one day in the year is dedicated to their worship which is how 'Ashwa Poojan' meaning 'worship of the Horse' came into existence. The Houseof Mewar having one of the bravest Rajput warriors in history have been celebrating 'Ashwa Poojan' from time immemorial without fail. The 76th and present custodian of the House of Mewar , Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar of Udaipur has been passed on this legacy from his ancestors and has taken it upon himself to continue this ceremony keeping alive the Living Heritage of The House of Mewar .
'Ashwa Poojan' is celebrated at The City Palace Complex each year on the last day of Navratri, nine most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar . The ceremony begins with the arrival of Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar of Udaipur in a 1905 vintage 'English Royal Landau Six-in-Hand' with a regal procession consisting of royal insignias such as two Chadiwalas carrying the long gold staff , two Gota-walas carrying the short gold batons symbolizing the authority of the state. Two men carrying the Fly- Whisk are positioned at the back of the Horse drawn carriage. At the high raised platform from where Shriji conducts the Ashwa Poojan ceremony two men wearing Chapdas (Coat of Arms of the House of Mewar), two men carrying Mor Chal (Peacock feathers), one carrying the Adani (Velvet cloth fan) and one carrying the Meghadambar (Feather Fan). One man carrying the Karaniya (A cloth with an embroidered Sun Emblem on one side and the moon on the other) and another one carrying the Chattra (large umbrella) are also present.
The Palace Band is positioned in front of the high raised platform from where Shriji worships the five royal horses namely Raj Tilak, Raj Roop, Ashwaraj, Raj Swaroop and Raj Mukut. These horses belong to the internationally recognized breed known as 'Marwari'. They are fully bred and nurtured at Shriji's personal Imperial Stud Farms at Shikarbadi, Udaipur .
The sacred ceremony is followed by a 'Nazrana' - a traditional ceremony where the noblemen of the city along with guests pay homage to the 76th Custodian of The House of Mewar .
An array of sumptuous refreshments organized by the HRH Group of Hotels awaits the guests at Khush Mahal Chowk bringing a memorable end to the magnificent and beautiful evening.
