Spiritual Oasis of Pushkar

Sitting northwest of Ajmer, Pushkar which is known as “The Town Of Fairs And Festivities” emerges as an oasis of spirituality and cultural vibrancy. Volunteers and Interns at STEP Beyond Borders recently went out on an adventure to explore the ancient wonders and sacred traditions of this old city.

A Glimpse into the History of Pushkar

Pushkar’s origins are enveloped in myths and legends. Lord Brahma who is regarded as the creator of the universe created Pushkar which makes it one of the oldest cities in India. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma dropped a lotus flower from the heavens. This created Pushkar Lake around which the city grew. This sacred water body is believed to have healing properties. It is respected by pilgrims from far and wide. From the famous Brahma temple to the busy Pushkar fair, every corner of this city tells a story of tradition and history.

Exploring the Temples

Our exploration began with a visit to the Brahma Temple. It is the only temple in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma according to scriptures. The temple is made of marble and stone slabs. Adorned with delicate carvings and vibrant colours, this ancient shrine stands as a testament to Pushkar’s spiritual legacy. We immersed ourselves in the divine ambience, offering prayers and seeking blessings for our journey ahead.

Walking along the Ghats

The ghats of Pushkar Lake form the heart and soul of the town. they serve as the centre of spiritual activity and communal gatherings. Each ghat carries its significance, where pilgrims perform sacred rituals and purification baths to cleanse their souls. As we strolled along the beautiful waters, we witnessed the flow of life, enveloped in the sacred waters.

Pushkar’s Cultural Traditions

As you plan your future travels don’t miss out on experiencing the Pushkar Fair which is one of India’s most renowned cultural events. It takes place annually in the town of Pushkar, Rajasthan, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world. Pushkar is not just a sanctuary for spiritual seekers but also a melting pot of cultural diversity. We immersed ourselves in traditional folk music and dance performances and enjoyed the flavours of local cuisine. The participants especially enjoyed the camel races. The busy market streets decorated with colourful textiles, traditional handicrafts, and aromatic spices, offer a glimpse into the town’s bustling trade and commerce.

Mesmerizing Sunsets and Temples

We ascended to the heights of the Savitri Temple which is dedicated to Goddess Savitri who is the consort of Lord Brahma. From this viewpoint, we enjoyed the panoramic scenery of Pushkar, with the setting sun casting a mesmerizing glow over the horizon. The relaxing ambience filled our hearts with a sense of peace and serenity, leaving a lasting imprint on our souls.

Reflecting on the Journey

During their journey to Pushkar with STEP Beyond Borders volunteers and interns experienced a blend of spirituality, history, cultural immersion and discovery. Interacting with locals and witnessing ancient rituals was a highlight of their journey. Through this, they cultivated a global sense of citizenship and empathy. As we bid farewell to this sacred town, participants carried with them memories that would last for a lifetime, along with an appreciation for India’s timeless heritage and traditions.