A country of many diversities and an amalgamation of multiple cultures, India is no less than a connoisseur’s paradise for photographers, from architectural monuments to historical places, and to everyone who inhabits it makes this place a picture-perfect destination!
Before the world was familiar with camera phones they had to carry their camera with them. Smartphones have now awakened us to the power of photos through new technologies, tools and platforms. It has made it easy for everyone to click pictures. One doesn’t have to possess a camera to click pictures all they need is a mobile with a camera. To add on there are many applications available that help to enhance the image making it look more appealing.
Every year on 19th August World Photography Day is celebrated worldwide with great zeal and passion. The main aim is to spread the work of those who share their ideas of photography. A photograph has the power to enhance the beauty of a place which looks ordinary to others.
Highlighting the beauty of the world around us through these photographs captured through mobile cameras-
The World Famous Open Air Gallery- Shekhawati (Rajasthan)Sunset Views at GoaStreets with a view-JaipurThe Joy Ride – KolkataDrenched- World Trade Park, JaipurThe Chaos- Pink CityThe Crimson hues- Goa BeachFly High-Statue Circle, Jaipur (Rajasthan)The Flame- Pushkar, RajasthanThe Sun & The Shadow- Hawa Mahal, Jaipur (Rajasthan)Ramparts of Red Fort, DelhiWonders of the world -Taj Mahal, AgraCalled Life in Jodhpur, RajasthanThe Serene Lake of Pushkar, RajasthanKeep Walking-LadakhSteps leading down-Stepwell at Dholpur, RajasthanAt Dusk-Camel fair, PushkarThe splendour of Bundi, RajasthanThe Last Rites- Banaras, Uttar PradeshRoads and mountains -Himachal PradeshCenotaphs, JodhpurHumans of Himachal Pradesh
So, pick up your cameras or mobile phones, walk around and click some pictures.
There’s no better bond than of a brother and sister who have grown up together with lots of fights and being each other’s partner in crime. Every year on this auspicious occasion sister ties a sacred thread on their brother’s wrist and he vows to protect her from all adversity.
This festival celebrates the bond of siblings that holds a special place in our heart despite all the fights. But, are we celebrating it the right way or just carrying on the old tradition?
Over the years we have been fighting over the patriarchy and making this world a gender-neutral place, so how can we celebrate this festival that goes against the will of women empowerment. Through this festival, we are setting an example for our children of how women will always need a man’s protection. Raksha Bandhan needs to move on from the old age tradition to a non-patriarchal and gender-neutral way.
This year tie a rakhi on your sister’s wrist and the two of you can take a vow to love each other & have each other’s back and can exchange gifts between the two.
Let’s make this festival a celebration of sibling love!
It’s never late to plan an amazing road trip! After all, you have worked for the first 3 days of the week and you got a midweek break on account of Independence day and Rakhshabandhan. Let’s embark on a long drive as there are a lot of places in and around Jaipur that shows how beautiful the surroundings of the city are when it rains.
1. Bhangarh
Hiking on a blissful and adventurous break at Bhangarh and discovers the secrets of the Haunted Ruins of Rajasthan along with heritage scenery is not a bad idea.
Bhangarh is situated in Alwar district of Rajasthan and is known to be India’s most haunted place. The remains of Bhangarh Fort are informative enough to take you on a mesmerizing journey, of the reminiscence from the past. It’s just not the place, but the route also gives whimsical experience especially during monsoon. Get down anywhere, take pictures but remember to come back before it gets dark as there is no place to stay there.
2. Ramgarh
If you love passing through numerous anicuts, waterfalls and lush green forest patches, filled with an abundance of natural beauty, Ramgarh is the place to go.
If you want to stay, here’s for you a rustic The Gateway Hotel Ramgarh Lodge which was originally the hunting lodge of the Maharaja of Jaipur. Far from the bustle of the city, it is still favoured by tourists those who want to relive the glorious kingly life that once was lived by Maharaja of Jaipur.
3. Chandlai Lake
When you want to be a part of a picture-perfect scenic view, Chandlai lake is the best spot for you to pose in front of. The unsung beauty is a small lake, 30 km from the city, to experience the most peaceful picnic you need. No wonder you’ll get a bunch of beautiful pictures.
4. Kukas
Take a drive on a Delhi National Highway, towards Kukas. Away from the chaos, this place has many luxurious hotels like Fairmont, JW Marriott, Le Meridien, Jaibagh palace and lots more. The crisp enlivening Aravali air envelopes you as soon as you take off in your vehicle on this charming highway covered with verdant greens.
A perfect getaway where you can experience top-notch facilities and fine dining. You can either plan for a lunch with your family or plan a one night stay in any of these places. Sit back, relax, indulge in delicious food.
5. Bundi
Monsoon is the best time to see Bundi in Rajasthan in full glory as it comes alive with lush greenery and waterfalls. The Aravalis are prettier than ever when it rains and the journey becomes super exciting. The quaint little town is 36 km away from Kota is dotted with pretty lakes, waterfalls, nature trails during monsoon. The idyllic landscape will persuade you to stay back for a day or two.
One wouldn’t believe their eyes after witnessing the scenic view that Bundi has despite being part of dry Rajasthan!
6. Pushkar
Take a six-lane beautiful highway up to Ajmer and continue to Pushkar through the hilly serpentine road. The temple city of Pushkar raises the spirit of all during the monsoon time when its surroundings brims with lively mesosphere. Gorge on the world-famous Maalpuas of Pushkar or just feel the hippie vibes at one of the many cafes in the town.
The festival of eternal love, care and promise is here and not to miss this is also an occasion to brainstorm with a little thought about the unique gift to your sister. The love and affection between brother and sister are universal. Their bond is considered pure and unconditional but yes, the receiving and giving of gifts can not be ignored at all.
From a dress to the book, to take her out on a dinner or for a movie all this you ‘ve done several times before. But that’s not an excuse to escape 🙂
Presenting a unique Gift to your sistercan be the best way to make things jolly. Although it can be a challenging task and we have got you covered.
This Rakshabandhan pamper her with the makeover and get an appointment for her in her favourite Sizzlin Scizzors Salon where she can get eyebrows, waxing, haircuts, hair treatment, makeup, body spa or body treatment or any other services she wants.
The chilled-out atmosphere makes for a session of pure relaxation for your sister— a place where you’re sure she will feel relaxed and in good hands.
A vibrant splash of colours, tremendous fanfare, and intriguing rituals, Teej festival in Jaipur is the time of year when the city brims with colours and fanfare. While peacocks celebrate monsoons with dancing in the rain, Womenfolk in Jaipur marks the blushing season by singing folk songs and swaying on a tree swing.
You’ll not find any better way to experience the colourful culture of fascinating Pink City than now! With the augment of August month accompanied by showers; Jaipur is already brimming with the spirit of ecstasy and Teej festivities.
This year the Sawan Teej festival will be celebrated on 3rd and 4th August 2019. Teej
Festival though is fêted all over the state but celebrated at its colorful best in Jaipur. Jaipurites welcome the advent of monsoon through Teej celebrations, which is also dedicated to Goddess Parvati and commemorates the day when she was united with Lord Shiva after a penance of a hundred years. A spellbinding procession of Goddess Parvati, followed by Palanquins, chariots, dancers and a band winds magnificently through the Old City of Jaipur for two days.
Apart from the traditional procession of Goddess Teej in the city, to showcase the galore and culture of Rajasthan ‘Taal Katora Ki Paal’ becomes the hub for cultural events, where the Teej idols will be submerged later.
Teej is marked with great pomp and fair in Jaipur. One day before Teej, a married woman receives Sinjhara from her parents, which is a hamper that includes bindi, vermilion, mehandi or henna, bangles, ghewar and Lehariya as a symbol of their covertures.
If you are a connoisseur and wish to blend in the festivities and experience it from close then waste no moment. Buy a special tie and die pattern, called LEHARIYA, which is only available at this time of the year. The wall city market area of Bapu Bazaar and Johari Bazaar offers many shops.
The significance of lacquer (lac) bangles is also very special, and Jaipur is famous for its alluring lacquer bangles. Don’t miss to check out the multihued adornments that render more beauty the festive attire.
Get your hands decorated with the henna patterns, which you can get done at different corners of the city. The front façade of Saraogi Mansion near Bapu Bazaar, the lanes of Johri Bazaar and major shopping malls like Pink Square, GT and Crystal Court would have numerous henna artists, who decorate beautiful hands with fascinating designs.
The tempting aromas of Ghewar being cooked on sweet shops, colourful lehariyas, and
blossoming flowers and women folks decked up with henna on hands in their traditional best add more colours to the essence of the jovial season.
The government of Rajasthan state arranges a special sitting area for foreign tourists coming to witness this magnificent festival by providing comfortable viewing and to photograph the procession from the terrace of the Hind Hotel opposite Tripoliya gate.
This monsoon, travel to Jaipur to not just feel the lively spirit of Jaipurites around the festival, but also witness and partake in the jovial culture of the colourful Pink City of Rajasthan.
“The belly rules the mind” goes a famous Spanish proverb, a tantalizing phrase that Jaipur, the land of the kings and rich cuisines, is no stranger to. Rajasthani platter is a scrumptious combination of sweet, spicy and colorful dishes. We Jaipurites with our salivating mouth proudly say that it is incomplete without the mention of Dal-Bati-Churma, a traditional wholesome meal of Rajasthan. Mind you, sweet dishes are never addressed as ‘dessert’ in our land, because unlike desserts which are had after the meal, we relish desserts before, during and after the meal.
Now is the perfect time to talk about the much-celebrated dessert in this season of special festivities. “Ghevar”, an incredible Rajasthani Delicacy which is widely popular and traditionally associated with Teej Festival (locally called Sawan ki Teej or Hariyali Teej) and Raksha Bandhan festival falling in the month of August.
Ghevar is a round mesh-like disc-shaped fried delicacy drenched in cardamom and saffron flavoured sugar syrup and topped with sliced nuts and flavored rabri. We bet you are already dreaming to gobble Ghevar because this festival Dessert is always a chart-topper!
The luscious sweet is enjoyed indifferently as per an individual’s taste preferences; some enjoy it crispy while others love it tender with the toppings of Mawa or Malai. Ghevar also tastes great when it is eaten with hot Milk or Kheer.
Having such a variety in taste, Ghevar can definitely satiate your sweet tooth pangs for the time being but cannot satisfy your need to have it again and again. “Padharo mahare des” is an apt phrase, which means: “Welcome to my land”, where you can experience the flavours of uniqueness that it has to offer and enhance it with the wonderful hospitality, food AND Sweet Dishes like Ghevar that Jaipur is famed the world over.
Festivities are around the corner and, you are all anchored with your plans. Jaipur is also one step ahead in making your August plan more exciting and power-packed with new endeavours. The festival of Teej, Rakhi, Independence day, World Photography day and what not is already in store.
Jaipur and Jaipurites are already excited as one could plan for festivals, comedy gig, and a variety of exhibitions and workshops that are happening this August. With a list of events below, prepare and plan wisely to have a blast this month-
Festivals-
Teej and Rakhi are the most important festivals of this season and, which is something you cannot miss. The colourful Teej processions, splendid exhibitions, delicious savouries will give you a perfect festival vibe.
Jaipur’s Royal Teej Celebration
Teej Festival though is fêted all over the state but celebrated at its colourful best in Jaipur. Dedicated to Goddess Parvati a royal procession is held every year during Shrawan month. On the occasion women, girls dress up in their colourful best leheriyas, adorn lac bangles, sing devotional songs, put up mehndi, eat delicious savouries. The mesmerizing procession of Goddess Parvati winds magnificently through the Old City of Jaipur via Tripoliya Gate (City Palace) Tripoliya Bazar and Gangauri Bazar with chariots, decorated camels, dancing folk artists, brass bands and royal palanquins for two days. Get your cameras ready to capture the real flavour of Jaipur!
Date: 3rd-4th August 2019
JAIPUR TEEJ TOUR by Red Earth India
The tour is particularly curated for the tourists who can observe the glorious festival of Teej in the Walled City in addition to the culture and traditions of Jaipur by visiting the old Bazaars and temples. If you want to experience the grand procession of Teej in the Pink City and revel in the city’s bazaars and shop for Jaipur specials; let’s take a walk through the 18th c. the walled city of Jaipur. Explore some lesser-known Vaishnava temples of Jaipur, relish special festival food and Rajasthani delicacies and uncover the crafts & design heritage of the city with RedEarth India.
Exhibitions and Workshops-
Check out the most exciting exhibitions and workshops
Rakhi Malhaar by Anantaya Decor
Raksha Bandhan is a festival of irreplaceable bonds and promising vows. To celebrate this sibling spirit, Anantaya Decor brings to you the gift launch exhibition where you could choose from a range of products starting from eco-friendly rakhis, upcycled makhmal bags, handmade pottery, Kathhaa wearable jewellery and many more. Visit to buy the ideal gift for your sibling.
Rakhi Exhibition by Sumayaa
Sumayaa Exhibitions is the biggest shopping platform for today’s lifestyle needs and this season they are organizing rakhi exhibition in the city with the best of exhibitors and their products.
Rakhi Workshop at Art Forte
Join a Creative workshop at Art Forte on this Rakhi tie a handmade rakhi on your brother’s hand.
House of Masaba – Jaipur Pop Up
House of Masaba bringing their array of silhouettes and prints to Jaipur. The show is presenting the latest collection by houseofmasaba at Grand Uniara Hotel.
BrushPen Calligraphy Workshop by Royal Letters
Looking for some artful lessons on calligraphy to create beautiful designs? Brushpen Calligraphy by Royal Letters is in town this August to give you a complete workshop on this for 2 days. Join this workshop and bring the creator in you.
StoryTelling Documentary Workshop-TOSS
This documentary workshop by TOSS can be a golden opportunity for the amateur or the budding filmmakers as acknowledged personalities like Nilotpal Majumdar and, Surpriyo Sen will be the part of the mentor panel. It will focus on in-depth discussions on multiple genres and new ways of expressions. Register yourself to experience learning with professionals.
Entertainment, Entertainment & Entertainment
This August your stomach will hurt so much with all the laughter coming to your way. There are many stand up comedians coming to Jaipur to give you all a good laugh. Choose your favourite artist and have a great time this season, laughing.
Jeeveshu Ahluwalia – Stand-Up Comedian
You’ll be in splits of laughter and bouts of dance all through the same evening at the Grand Launch of Hi Lo (The Underground).
Venue: Hotel De Nada
Date and Time: 2nd August 2019, 8:00 P.M.
Vijay Yadav – Bantering You
Venue: Club Colaba, Jaipur
Date and Time: 4th August 2019; 7:30 P.M.
Sundowner Poll Party – DJ Jhonnie Ernest
Celebrate the bond of friendship from sunny day to starry night at Jaipur’s first real Sundowner & Pool Party.
Venue: Hotel De Nada
Date and Time: 4th August 2019; 3:00 P.M.
Atul Khatri Live
Venue: Fort-Kitchen and Banquet
Date and Time: 18th August 2019; 7:30 P.M.
Not Just Baniya! A stand up comedy solo by Gaurav Gupta
Date & Venue- The Native Bar on Friday, 9 August 2019
The fun has a different connotation for everyone. Some find pleasure in playing with words; some take enthusiasm in writing words or, some, like to dance on the words penned by others. Every concern is taken care of with different programs and workshops.
