RAJA celebrates Gangaur and the cultural heritage of Rajasthan
It was a delightful experience to be a part of the grand celebration of Gangaur, hosted by the Rajasthan Association of Georgia (RAJA), on the sparkling night of April 16, 2022 at Ashiana in Metro Atlanta. The seamless excitement, the positive energy, and the profound gratitude of celebrating our native culture in person after two years was palpable. The celebration was inaugurated with the lighting of the ceremonial diya in the traditional Rajasthani style by the chairman of the board of RAJA, Dinesh Purohit along with his wife, Shrimati Kailash Purohit.
[Left] Members of Rajasthan Association of Georgia celebrated Gangaur with much festivity. (Photo credit: SFA Productions.)
All through the evening, one could smell the earthen flavors of Rajasthan in an eclectic mix of ethnic food, fellowship, family, and a fantastic cultural program. We could hear the chanting of the mantras in the background. We could feel the glory of the rich and majestic culture of Rajasthan in the mesmerizing décor. We could hear the robust melody of Rajasthani folk music and dance forms in all their foot-tapping vigor and felicity. We could see the vibrant splendor of Rajasthani costumes, jewelry, and turbans adorning the radiant demeanor of all the families, including all children. We could taste the rich flavors of the delectable Rajasthani cuisine in the variety of choices in food.
Gangaur is celebrated at the beginning of spring in India when women from Rajasthan worship Gana (Lord Shiva) and Gaur (Parvati, his wife) to invoke their blessings for marital bliss and welfare of the entire family.
On this occasion, a food-and-toy drive was conducted to help communities in need. Children were awarded certificates and gift cards after their participation in a quiz on Rajasthan. An association of more than one hundred and fifty families from Rajasthan who are settled in Georgia, RAJA expressed its gratitude to all families and sponsors for organizing and participating in the celebration. RAJA has also been engaged in several projects of community service.
—Anu Narula
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