Royally Rajasthan

Indian Diary: Entry No. 2

05.08.2013: Day 4- From Pushkar en route to Jaipur

The lush green fields outside playfully tease me, mocking at my ignorance. When the trip of Rajasthan was finalised, the first images formed in my mind were of sand dunes, akin the iconic scenes from Sarfarosh and Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. Little did I imagine that I'd be seeing more greenery than I've ever seen in the more familiar northern parts of India.

This green adds another dynamism to the rather colourful state that Rajasthan already is. It is a state rich in tradition, but that isn't saying much given traditionality is hardly ever lacking at most places in India. Where it is significantly different is in the royal essence it boasts of. Right from the bright turbans sported on male heads complementing the dazzling traditional sarees of the women, to the awe-striking forts, royalty seems embedded in the very blood of the state. Now it may just be my attraction to royalty, but this aspect drew me closer to Rajasthan than it has to any other state in India.

Completing this package of the sites and sounds of Rajasthan is the typical classical music originating from the state. In more places than one, this music was heard being played by men clad in traditional Rajasthani attire, appealing to the senses of those around them, most of which were tourists. Tourists are as essential, if not more, than what the place has to offer. It works like an audience to a stage production, spectators to a match. Without tourists, there isn't anyone to appreciate the uniqueness of a place, without tourists there isn't anyone to soak in the atmosphere typifying that place. The mutual relationship of a destination and a tourist, is one that is often taken for granted. This is where Rajasthan scores a definitive point over some of the other destinations in India. It caters to people who come to appreciate it, it keeps them in the centre of what it offers. From transport to cleanliness, a lot of what I saw made me want to return. The tourist in me is amused, interested, and most importantly, impressed and eagerly anticipating the next few days.