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Monsoon masti at
Bundi
Monsoon
has always been bountiful for the people of Bundi in the relatively
water-scanty state of Rajasthan. After a short span of scorching
summer, rain brings hope and joy.
About 30 km from Bundi on way to
Menal lies a waterfall called Bhimlat, spread in an area of six km,
away from the effects of human invasion. The water falls from about 60
m making it a fine tourist spot. The sound of the splashing water is
audible from a distance. The zig-zag roads and the green countryside
view, along with the flocks of cattle, present a natural kaleidoscope.
The beautiful lakes of Jait Sagar, Naval Sagar, Dhoondla Mahadev, near
Talwas, Dugari overflow and flood the surrounding regions. Rameshwar,
around 20 km from Bundi, has a waterfall falling on the Shivalingam
from the top. At Rameshwar Mahadev, the cave temple of Shiva is
surrounded`A0by Aravalli`A0ranges.`A0Interestingly, all these falls
have temples relating to Shiva and his deities. There are few rock
painting sites around. As raindrops fall on the parched land and the
aroma of wet soil rises into the air, swings or jhoolas are
hung from trees and decorated with flowers. Young women dress up in
green and sing to celebrate and welcome the advent of the monsoon.
Teej, essentially a women’s festival, is dedicated to Goddess
Parvati, commemorating her union with Lord Shiva. During the
monsoon, the local Kajli Teej festival is uniquely celebrated. In
Bundi, it is celebrated on the third day of Bhadra whereas it is
celebrated on the third day of Shravana in other places in the state.
The festival begins with the traditional procession of Teej Mata in a
decorated palanquin passing through the main bazaar. Though the main
function lasts for two days the celebrations continue till Janmashtmi. A
drive in the countryside finds all streams overflowing with water. Reservoirs
like the Bardha dam, 15 km from the district headquarters, and Guda
Dam, 22 km, and the nearby Hindoli ki Paal overflow, convert it into a
fine picnic spot. A taste of the local bhutta roasted in coal
oven and served with salt and lemon is delightful. A local recipe
Kuttha Baati made up of roasted wheat balls soaked in oil is also
quite popular in the season. It is served with a special curry and
garlic sauce. Such feasts are part of the local culture during the
rainy season. Bundi has some special locations for the monsoons like
Taragarh, Naldeh, Golpur, Gararda the impressive Gararia Mahadev on
the majestic chambal make a great adventure that too in the rains.
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