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Location : Jaipur, Rajasthan

Venue : Chaugan Stadium

Months of Celebration : February/March

Period of Celebration : One day

Category : Culture

Entrance Fee : Nil

Upcoming Event : 19th March, 2011

How to reach there : Buses, trains that are Jaipur bound

Elephant Festival is a flamboyant cultural event that is marked by the huge procession of excessively decorated elephants. Considered as embodiment of strength, elephants have been treated as beasts of immense royal importance since ancient times in Rajasthan. 

Highlights of the festival

Elephant Festival brings together the most charming elephants that are draped in exquisite embellishments and jeweled attires. These majestic animals walk gracefully and are the center of attraction of the entire event. Various body parts of these animals are painted in lively colors. Adorable trinkets adorn their massive bodies. Several floral designs are painted on their feet and trunk. The procession of elephants is an embodiment of the charm and grandeur of the past. Recreation of historical events is an important part of this peculiar festival.
 

Thrilling dance and musical performances also characterize Elephant Festival. Horses, camels, and decorative chariots accompany the colossal beasts and offer extra excitement to the event. Besides this, royal palanquins and cannons are also on display. The sounds of trumpets add majestic aura to the environment. Men and women are dressed in bright attires with men wearing big turbans.

Other Activities

Several competitions are held that include elephant races and polo matches. A tug-of-war competition between men and elephants is fun to watch and participate. The procession culminates by splashing the colors of Holi on each other.

Historical significance

Elephants have remained the embodiment of strength and royal charm from time immemorial. The tradition of elephant-procession dates back to Buddhist period. Royal kings used to ride caparisoned elephants to flaunt their wealth. Royal rides were organized to honor special guests.

Elephant Festival reflects the royal extravaganza of Rajasthan at its best. The event is marked by joyous celebrations and beautiful colors of Holi.