Events of the month

Ashwa Poojan
Navratri (nine sacred days and nights) is one of the most auspicious times in the Hindu calender. The ninth day of Navratri is called Ram-Navmi, the culminating day of the nine-day festival. On Ram-Navmi, the Rajputs everywhere recognise the various aspects on which there dependence and survival necessary lies. The dependence of man on horse cannot be undermined, and it is therefore appropriate that one day in the year is especially dedicated in recognition of the unfailing contribution of the horse to the survival of the Rajput. Ritual prayers are extended to the majestic horse, with the Maharana himself offering prayers to the steed.
The Ashwa Poojan or Horse Worship ceremony was held at The Manek Chowk, in Udaipur on October 1. Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar of Udaipur, the 76th Custodian of the House of Mewar and chairman-and-managing trustee of the Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation conducted all traditional rites and rituals. Shriji arrived at Manek Chowk in a 1905 vintage 'English Royal Landau Four-in-Hand', purchased during the reign of Maharana Fateh Singhji (1884-1930).
All guests attending the event as well as a number of notable citizens of Udaipur witnessed this regal festival that upholds the age-old traditions of Rajasthan.

Shriji preparing the ritual in advance of
Ashwa Poojan

Traditional attire was observed by all who attended. The horses which took part in this year's ceremony belonged to the indigenous though internationally recognised 'Marwari' breed. The salient characteristics of the breed are that they are extremely sure footed on hard rocky terrain and equally at ease in the sands of the desert. More importantly, the Rajput warrior could go into battle day after day, mounted on his horse that had the extraordinary ability to rejuvenate itself after a night's rest and simple sand bath.