Elephant Festival | Travel Photography

Elephant Festival 2014

Jaipur, the ‘Pink City’ of India, located in its largest state, Rajastan, comes alive with the energy and enthusiasm of the elephant festival which is celebrated there every year. The festival which is popular for its rich culture and antique appearance is held on the full moon day of Phalgun purnima which coincides with the Holika dahan festival in or near the month of March. The traditional carnival goes back to the Royal era and adds a new dimension to Holi, the festival of colors.

The major attractions of this festival are: Gaj Sringar Exhibition in which the Mahouts (elephant riders) carry the mashaal to play Holi, traditional elephant procession, elephant decoration competition, turban tying competition, Rajasthani Folk Dance “Chang Dhap,” Matka race (a race between Indian and foreign men and women carrying ceramic bowls on their heads), tug of war between Indians and foreigners, elephant football, folk dancing (Brij Holi), Holi played on elephants, bands, Holi fireworks and an Elephant “Cat Walk.” Starting from the culture of Hinduism, elephants have always been an important part of Indian society. The elephant-headed lord, Ganesha, believed to be the obstacle remover and foremost of all the Gods, is devotedly worshipped in all parts of India. Elephants are one of the most essential parts of religious events and marriage ceremonies. In ancient times they were also important on the battlefield. In Rajasthan, elephants share royal importance and appearance The Maharajas of Jaipur used elephants as their royal transport to travel from one region to another. After winning any war, the Kings of Jaipur used to travel the city, in honor, on the backs of elephants and every citizen of the city used to celebrate the victorious day of the king. The festival starts with a beautiful procession of bedecked elephants, camels, horses and folk dancers. The proud owners of all the elephants decorate them with different colors, jhools (saddle cloth) and heavy jewelry; it’s an unforgettable experience to see female elephants wearing anklets which always tinkle when they walk. It often sounds like someone is playing a jhunjunaa (a kind of instrument which sounds like a ringing bell) which creates a blissful feeling. One can also see “gulaal” (colored powder) resting on the top of elephants. Each elephant has one name and is decorated artistically.

The King's Pride

The polo match is the main attraction of the elephant festival as the royal game is played sitting atop the elephants. Teams dressed in saffron and red turbans score goals with long sticks and a plastic ball. The festival also includes elephant dances and a tug of war between foreigners and Indians which ends with the spreading of gulaal in the air. It is enjoyed by huge crowds from various parts of India as well as from abroad. It’s a delight to watch people from all over the world gathered in the same place, enjoying the royal festival. It provides a symbol of unity among all the people, an example which could be spread all over the world. The festival is also a treat for photographers who can capture beautiful pictures.

It offers the perfect opportunity to see these regal creatures, in all their splendor, as they parade before you to the beating of Negara and Bankaya (kinds of drums). I used Nikon D80 and D7000 cameras and 35mm f/1.8G, 18-105mmVR, and 70-200mmVR lenses to photograph this festival. You must be very familiar with your equipment and wearing photo vests and jackets is very practical for carrying photo accessories such as flash memory cards, filters, lenses, etc. They also make you look like a professional photographer, which can be useful.

The festival does not provide photographers, so all photographers are allowed to take pictures. Capturing great pictures, emotions and short-lived moments depends on how quickly you can change lenses. Shooting in large crowds can be difficult, especially when people come from many different places. Sometimes the only way to communicate is with a smile while you concentrate on your camera and click away. People are usually flattered when you ask if you can take their picture.

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Tourists are invited to mount elephants to participate in the Holi festival. The performances of the folk dancers create an amazing scene of the past and celebrate the majesty of elephants and the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. In addition to the private bands, the Rajasthan Police and Rajasthani band (RAC) are invited to provide distinctive Holi music with drums, while a variety of cultural programs are performed with the active participation of the audience. Finally, elephants do a “Cat Walk” before an excited and enthusiastic audience. The elephants move gracefully in procession for this ceremony.

The lovable pachyderms greet visitors, offer garlands to guests and walk on the ramp before a jury of experts and tourists who judge all the decorated elephants. The “Best Decorated Elephant” receives the grand prize. Elephant owners begin preparation for the event almost a month in advance with the hope of attracting more elephant riders to the Pink City for the spectacular Grand finale. Tourists are invited to play Holi, which is throwing colored powder on each other while astride the decorated elephants. Foreign tourists especially enjoy this new experience. An impressive display of aerial fireworks is held during the heritage event at sunset.

The elephant festival, organized by Rajasthan tourism, has now become an important part of its annual events calendar. In earlier times, this festival was held at the Chaugan stadium located in the old city of Jaipur but due to increased crowds and its growing fame, its venue has been shifted to the Jaipur polo grounds which are opposite the Sawai Mansingh Stadium. This annual festival, with lots of activities and much fun, is enjoyed tremendously by both Indian and foreign tourists. Since photography is my calling, my profession, I photograph to capture the way views makes me feel and this festival provides many colorful and interesting views.