ABOUT RAJASTHAN

HISTORY OF RAJASTHAN
Rajasthan is situated in the North Western part of India and shares geographical boundaries with Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat in India. It also has a long international boundary with Pakistan. It has a total area of 342,214 sq. km and is the largest state in the country. About 4500 sq. km area of Alwar district of Rajasthan is included in the National Capital Region (NCR). The National Capital Region (NCR) centred around New Delhi, the Indian capital, is being developed in an integrated manner as an industrial growth centre with considerable Central Investment in infrastructural facilities. Seven Industrial Areas in the district of Alwar fall within this region and are 50 - 100 kms from New Delhi

Archaeological and historical evidence shows a continuous human habitation of the area dating back 100,000 years. Between the 7th and the 11th century AD, several dynasties arose, with Rajput strength reaching its peak at the beginning of the 16th c. Emperor Akbar brought the Rajput states into the Mughal empire; by early 19th century, they allied with the Marathas. Later, the British established paramountcy in the region. Raj- asthan soon emerged as a centre of Indian nationalism. When the new constitution went into effect in 1950, Rajput princes surrendered their powers to the Indian Union.

THE PEOPLE
There is majesty in every man of Rajasthan; they are after all the sons of kings. Rajasthan is a harsh, scorched land of savage summer heat but also full of the brightest colours. Countering the barren landscape with vibrant hues in their everyday wear and charming murals painted on their drab sepia-coloured mud homes, for the people, life is one big carnival. Even in the face of sure death. Here are many tales of desperate courage writ. Of men donning saffron robes and riding out to confront the enemy and women folk preferring death to dishonour. Even in everyday life today, the Rajput's sense of honour, family and tradition come foremost.

CULTURE
Rajasthan has made its contribution to Indian art; there is a rich literary tradition, especially of bardic poetry. Chand Bardai's poem Prithvi Raj Raso or Chand Raisa, the earliest manuscript of which dates to the 12th century, is particularly notable. A popular source of entertainment is the khyal, a dance drama composed in verse with festive, historical, or romantic themes. The typical folk dance of Rajasthan is the ghoomar, which is performed on festive occasions only by women. The geer dance (performed by men and women), the panihari (a graceful dance for women), and the kacchi ghori (in which male dancers ride dummy horses) are also popular.

JAIPUR
Jaipur, popularly known as Pinkcity, was built in 1727 AD by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and designed by the brilliant young Bengali architect Vidhyadhar Bhattacharya. Designed in accordance with Shilp Shastra - an ancient Hindu treatise on architecture - Jaipur follows a grid system. The wide straight bazaars, raastaas (streets), galis (lanes), mohallas and uniform rows of shops on either side of main bazaars are arranged in nine rectangular city sectors called chaukris. Encircled by a formidable wall, Jaipur was the only planned city of its time.

Places of interest are located mainly in the walled city. Places to visit are Amer Palace, Jai garh, Nahar Garh, Galtaji, Sisodiya Rani Ka Bagh, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Albert Hall (Museaum), Birla Temple.

JODHPUR
Jodhpur, popularly known as Surya Nagari (Sun City). It was the capital of the former princely State of Marwar. Jodhpur was founded by Rao Jodha in 1459. Rao Jodha got the Mehrangarh fort built, around this fort grew the city of Jodhpur.

A son of Rao Jodha named Bika founded the state of Bikaner. Jodhpur is primarily dry state.The lifestyle in Jodhpur is unusually fascinating with folks wearing lovely multihued costumes and artistically designed dresses. Women folk wear wide gathered skirts and hiplength jacket, with three-quarter length sleeves, covering the front and back. The colorful turbans worn by the men folk add more color to the city. It was from here that the popularly worn baggy-tight, horse riding trousers - "Jodhpuris" took their name.

KOTA
The south eastern region of Rajasthan known as Hadoti comprises of Bundi, Baran, Jhalawar and Kota. Kota lies along the banks of the Chambal River. The historical palaces and temples are getting surrounded with signs of modern development such as the chemical and other industries that have come up here, as has the Chambal River Valley Project, an irrigation and power project. The city came up in the 12th century A.D, when the Rajput conquests began. Rao Deva founded Bundi as the capital of Kota. Kota was later to become a separate state in the 17th Century.

Places to visit are the Rao Madho Singh Museum, Govt. Museum, City Palace and Fort, Jagmandir, Haveli of Deaji

UDAIPUR
Udaipur, often called the "City of Lakes" or "Venice of the East," is a picturesque city in the Indian state of Rajasthan. Nestled in the Aravalli Hills, Udaipur boasts a rich history and stunning natural beauty. Its centerpiece is the serene Lake Pichola, where the iconic Lake Palace seems to float on the water's surface. Udaipur's architecture showcases intricate Rajput and Mughal influences, with the City Palace being a prime example. The city is famous for its vibrant culture, colorful festivals, and traditional handicrafts. Udaipur's romantic ambience has made it a favored destination for weddings and honeymooners, while its welcoming people and cuisine add to its allure.

BIKANER
Bikaner, a captivating city in the northwestern Indian state of Rajasthan, boasts a rich tapestry of culture, history, and vibrant traditions. Founded in the late 15th century by Rao Bika, it stands as a testament to architectural brilliance with its ornate palaces, intricate havelis, and the magnificent Junagarh Fort.

Bikaner is renowned for its delectable cuisine, particularly the iconic Bikaneri bhujia, a spicy snack enjoyed across India. The city's annual Camel Festival showcases the enduring relationship between the people of Bikaner and these desert dwellers. With its desert landscapes, sand dunes, and warm hospitality, Bikaner is a captivating destination for travelers seeking an authentic Rajasthani experience.

ALWAR
Alwar, a historic city in the northwestern Indian state of Rajasthan, boasts a rich cultural and architectural heritage. Nestled amidst the Aravalli Hills, it's renowned for its majestic palaces, forts, and lakes. The formidable Bala Quila, a 15th-century hilltop fortress, offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.

Alwar's Sariska Tiger Reserve, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, harbors Bengal tigers, leopards, and various other species. The city's Sariska Palace, now a heritage hotel, exudes regal charm.

Alwar's cuisine is a delectable blend of Rajasthani flavors, featuring dishes like dal baati churma and ghewar. The city's vibrant bazaars offer intricate handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry. Overall, Alwar is a captivating blend of history, nature, and culture, drawing visitors from around the world.