Ajmer, October 27 (Udaipur Kiran): The weather took a sudden turn in Ajmer district on Monday, as unseasonal rainfall accompanied by strong winds brought a sharp dip in temperature. The International Pushkar Fair, currently underway in the holy town of Pushkar, was the most affected, causing difficulties for traders, livestock owners, and visitors.
The heavy rain, unusual for this time of year, disrupted normal life and turned the sandy fairgrounds into muddy patches. Livestock owners camping in temporary tents faced severe hardships as their animals were left exposed to the cold and rain. Many were seen lighting bonfires or taking shelter under makeshift tents to stay warm.
Traders and small vendors who had set up temporary stalls at the fair also suffered losses, struggling to protect their goods from the downpour using expensive plastic sheets and tarpaulins.
Horses and Camels Remain the Main Attraction
Despite the rain, the fair continues to draw large crowds. The native horse breeds have become the center of attraction for Indian visitors, while camel performances and interactions continue to fascinate foreign tourists. Many foreign visitors were seen capturing rural life and the daily routines of livestock owners through their cameras.
The Pushkar Fair, known globally for its vibrant blend of culture and livestock trade, echoed with the sound of camels and horses even as showers persisted. Livestock trading remained active, with buyers assessing animals based on breed, height, gait, and age.
Over 4,300 Animals Registered So Far
According to Dr. Sunil Ghiya, Joint Director of the Animal Husbandry Department and Fair Officer, a total of 4,336 animals have arrived at the fairgrounds so far. This includes 3,028 horses, 1,306 camels, and two cattle animals. About 701 animals have been brought from outside Rajasthan.
On Monday alone, 926 horses and 389 camels reached the fair, and the inflow is expected to continue as traders from across India arrive for buying and selling. Transactions worth lakhs of rupees are taking place daily in the open markets.
“Badal” – The 68-Inch Tall Horse Steals the Show
A majestic 68-inch-tall white stallion named Badal has become the star attraction at this year’s fair. Owned by Rahul Jetwal of Jetwal Stud Farm, Kekri, Badal has participated in the fair for the third time. Rahul, representing the seventh generation of horse breeders in his family, said Badal is “priceless” but valued around ₹15 crore, with bids reaching ₹9 crore last year.
“Rana” – 650-kg Buffalo from Madhya Pradesh Draws Crowds
Adding to the diversity, a massive 650-kg buffalo named Rana from Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, has also drawn attention from both Indian and foreign tourists. Its owner Dharmendra Chauhan said Rana, aged three and a half years, is fed a protein-rich diet of gram, eggs, milk, and ghee. He plans to sell the animal for around ₹15 lakh.
Tourist Footfall Rising Ahead of Kartik Fair
The holy Pushkar Fair will culminate on November 2 with the auspicious Kartik Ekadashi bath. Pilgrims and tourists have begun to throng the Pushkar Lake ghats, temples, and markets, while the fairgrounds are bustling with visitors eager to witness the unique blend of spirituality, tradition, and rural commerce.
A group of 16 tourists from the United States expressed excitement at witnessing the fair, calling it a “grand and unforgettable cultural experience.” They said they were mesmerized by the camel decorations and rural Indian traditions, which offered them a glimpse into the vibrant spirit of Rajasthan.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
