Padma
Purana, elaborately describes the origin and importance
of this lake. It says that Brahma, the Creator of the
Universe, was once contemplating to locate a suitable
spot on earth to perform a 'Yajna' (sacrificial ritual),
the lotus fell from his hand and rebounding, struck
the earth at three places within a circuit of kms. Water
issued forth, from all the three places and the Creator
called all the three as Pushkar (lotus) distinguishing
them as 'Jyeshtha' (elder), 'Madhya' (central) and 'Kanishtha'
(younger).
According to mythology,
he performed the 'Yajna' at Jyeshtha Pushkar from Kartik
Shukla Ekadashi to Purnima. Lakhs of devotees assemble
and bathe in the holy waters during this period of the
year; but bathing on the last day which is the full
moon (Purnima) day, confers special blessings.
One of the major attractions in Pushkar is the PUSHKAR
FAIR. The cattle fair is held here on this occasion,
where other animals like camels and horses are also
bought and sold. It is attended by people from far and
wide.
In recent years, an exclusive
accommodation-Tourist Village, has also been erected
for foreign tourists. Competitions are organized for
them and cultural programmes are held acquainting them
with the Rajasthani way of life and culture.
Pushkar has 52 bathing
ghats and many temples, big and small; the most celebrated
one being that of Brahma, the Creator of the Universe.
HOW TO GET THERE
Air:
Jaipur at 146-km is the nearest airport.
Rail:
Ajmer at 11-km is the nearest railhead from Pushkar.
Road:
Pushkar is well connected by road and is 11-km from
Ajmer.
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