Preparations are underway in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan for the world famous international Pushkar Fair, an annual event that draws massive crowds of domestic and international travellers. At the heart of this vibrant desert festival is the traditional livestock gathering, where camel breeders present their finest animals. Camels participating in the festival are groomed with the precision and splendour reserved for royal guests, with their owners willing to spend substantial amounts, ranging from tens of thousands to over a lakh rupees, to ensure their animals stand out in competitive showcases.
Modern Tools and Intricate Body Art Behind the Grand Look
Grooming these prized desert beasts is an elaborate art form that rivals luxury styling. According to Rajendra, a livestock trader setting up shop at the fairground, the preparation involves detailed body haircutting, carving decorative motifs into their fur, dyeing, and styling with traditional ornaments. Herders utilize modern trimming clippers alongside custom dyes to craft intricate patterns across the animals' coats. These geometric and traditional figures transform the camels into living canvases, creating an irresistible visual spectacle for visiting tourists and photography enthusiasts.
Grooming Costs Vary Based on Complexity and Design
The total investment required to prepare an animal depends entirely on the sophistication of the styling chosen by the owner. Rajendra explains that a basic round of trimming and minimal ornamentation typically costs between 10,000 and 20,000 rupees. For pastoralists seeking an elaborate, royal style transformation, the expenditure climbs rapidly to between 70,000 and 80,000 rupees. When camel owners commission fully detailed body engraving, premium coloring, and complete decorative regalia, the total expense easily reaches or exceeds one lakh rupees per animal.
Grand Parade of 101 Camels to Highlight the Festivities
A major highlight planned for the festival schedule is an impressive procession featuring 101 decorated camels marching together. The spectacle aims to display the diverse craftsmanship and cultural heritage of regional camel herders. Preparing for such public exhibitions and formal contests requires pastoralists to initiate rigorous care routines days in advance. During fair competitions, judging panels closely evaluate the camels on their height, structural build, graceful stride, overall aesthetic charm, and decorative grooming standard.
Cash Pursuits Worth Up to 1.25 Lakh Fuel Keen Competition
The willingness of camel owners to pour significant savings into animal grooming is backed by substantial competitive stakes. Top finishing animals across various pageant categories earn their owners cash prizes between one lakh and 1.25 lakh rupees. Winning at Pushkar also brings immense prestige and boosts the market value of the breeder's herd. Consequently, the royal elegance and intricate body art of these desert animals remain one of the biggest crowd-pullers for travellers converging on Pushkar.
