Gangaur is celebrated in Chaitra month of Vikram Samwat Calendar. On the third day of this month, on Chaitra Shukl Teej Gangaur pooja begins in which the maids associated with the Ranwaas (where Queen resides) prepare the Ishar and Gangaur for pooja for three days. This pooja takes place in the old Kothar (store) situated near Tripolia, in the city palace.
This is a festival primarily involving women of the house and is celebrated in all places in the State of Rajasthan. The scale of the celebration was Grand in all Mewar State as depicted in several paintings of those era displayed in the City Palace.
On the fourth day the Ishar and Gangaur (sand made decorated idols) are carried in a procession from Tripolia to Rameshwarghat, the Promenade where they are immersed in Lake Pichola. The procession returns with Ashika for Maharani Sahiba and disburses on entering Fateh Pole. The maids proceed to the main Shambhu Niwas Palace for Her Highness.
About the procession in the City Palace Complex: It is a group of about 20 ladies with Ishwar Gangaur escorted by Chadidarni (Lady with Silver Chadi) in procession in similar order as the procession of Jaljhulani Ekadashi.
The participation in this cultural celebration is totally voluntary for those not associated directly with the pooja.
Gangaur is a special celebration by performing the pooja by all women in a very special manner with the special ornaments, decorations, recepies and festivities. In most houses of Rajasthan there are human size Gangaur beautifully dressed with Rajasthan’s jewellery and ornaments. The members of the Royal House participated in this event in past as depicted in the Gangaur Savari paintings. Traditonal celebrations of Gangaur were on a very grand scale when the whole city of Udaipur used to watch the Gangaur Savari and its Grandeur.
Gangaur Begun on Sunday, 25th March 2012
Gangaur Pooja ended with procession on Wednesday, 28th March 2012
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