- By Shubham Bajpai
- Sat, 27 Sep 2025 10:58 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The two-day Abhaneri Festival, celebrating Rajasthan’s vibrant heritage tourism, concluded on Saturday. Organized under the joint auspices of the Rajasthan Tourism Department, Dausa District Administration, and the Archaeological Survey of India, the festival attracted significant attention from both domestic and international tourists.
To mark World Tourism Day, the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Smt. Diya Kumari, visited the picturesque village of Abhaneri, bringing joy and excitement to the local residents. Her presence added prestige and grandeur to the cultural celebration.
The highlight of her visit was a soul-stirring performance by Padma Shri awardee Anwar Khan Manganiyar, who sang “Abhaneri Ri Dharti Mein Bhala Padharya Re…”, captivating the audience. The Deputy Chief Minister was warmly welcomed by Bandikui MLA Shri Bhagchand Bagda.
According to Shri Upendra Singh Shekhawat, Deputy Director of the Tourism Department, Chand Baori, located in Abhaneri, remains a major attraction for both domestic and international tourists. As of August 2025, the site recorded 58,022 domestic and 51,524 foreign tourist visits.
Smt. Diya Kumari began her visit by exploring Chand Baori, considered one of the deepest stepwells in the world, followed by a visit to the revered Harshat Mata Temple, where she offered prayers for the prosperity of the state. She also met with Anwar Khan Manganiyar and his troupe, honoring the maestro with a traditional shawl.
The festival, which began on September 26, provided a rich cultural experience to tourists. From the energetic Kachhi Ghodi dance to mesmerizing puppet shows, folk performances, and colorful Rajasthani traditions, guests from across the globe were seen dancing and engaging enthusiastically with the local culture.
Deputy Director Shekhawat shared that guests were welcomed in traditional Rajasthani style—with garlands and tilak—and treated to immersive rural experiences. Skilled artisans, including lac bangle makers, potters, and blacksmiths, showcased their craft live during the event. Tourists especially enjoyed witnessing the making of lac bangles, pottery wheels in motion, and iron works, and many even purchased items directly from the artisans.
The festival also featured camel cart rides, offering a unique village tour experience that received praise from both domestic and foreign visitors. Additionally, street plays (nukkad natak) were performed throughout the village, adding to the cultural ambiance.
Abhaneri’s heritage sites, particularly the 10th-century Harshat Mata Temple and the famed Chand Baori, remain focal points for tourist attraction. Visitors can enjoy temple visits and heritage walks during the day, followed by cultural evenings from 7 to 9 PM, which leave a lasting impression.
Prominent officials present at the event included Dr. Punita Singh (Joint Director, Tourism Department), Shri Sumit Meena (Deputy Director), and Shri Himanshu Mehra (Assistant Director), along with several department staff members.