The Blue City of Rajasthan, Jodhpur is the second biggest city and is on the edge of Thar Desert. It was established by Rao Jodha, in the 15th century and has become the largest and the most progressive of the Rajput states.

         

The most alluring part of Jodhpur is the traditional lifestyle, festivity and the smiling people, who treasure this former Princely state. Jodhpur, the land of royalty, is a glittering jewel set in the golden sands of barren desert landscape.

HISTORY

In 1459 AD, Rao Jodha, chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs, who claimed descent from Rama, the epic hero of the Ramayana, laid the foundation of Jodhpur. The Rathore kingdom was once known as Marwar, the Land of Death.

A 10 km. long wall, which was built, surrounds the old city of Jodhpur; a century after the city was founded. Eight gates lead out from the walled city. It was from here, that those baggy/tight horse-riding trousers, Jodhpurs, took their name.

CULTURE

Jodhpur is rich in jewelry, each area having its own unique style. Some of the traditional designs are Rakhri, Timaniyan, Bala, Bajuband, Gajra, Gokhru, Jod, etc. The lifestyle in Jodhpur, is unusually fascinating, with folks wearing lovely multihued costumes, designed artistically.

Women folk wear wide gathered skirts and a hip length 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. Jodhpur's famous Ghoomar dance, which derives its name from ghoomna or pirouetting, displays the spectacular colors of the flowing ghagra, the long, skirt of the Marwari women.

Men and women of Jodhpur sing devotional as well as festive songs. Songs by the saint-poets like Kabir, Meera and Malookdas are part of the folk repertoire.

FOOD

Jodhpur is a paradise for connoisseurs of cuisine. The palate is pampered with a wide array of snacks and meals, which are fiery and aromatic. The famous kachouri is a favorite that comes with a variety of fillings accompanied by tangy tamarind chutney. Yet another treat is the selection of delectable laddoos, which are guaranteed to melt in your mouth! Tall glasses of cool lassi are the perfect ending to a spicy Rajasthani meal.

SHOPPING

Jodhpur is renowned for its tie and dye textiles, jootis, lacquerware, antiques, carpets and puppets. A major part of the sightseeing includes visiting some of the many shopping areas. The most famous being the Sadar Bazaar, which has the entire list, mentioned above, plus lots of knick-knacks.

Marwar Festival

Held in October in Jodhpur, this annual, event attempts to showcase the art culture of the Jodhpur region. It ids devoted almost exclusively to song and dances, and the Maand Festival has become a part of this huge region celebration.