Rajasthan, neither the word nor the state, needs any introduction. We all know, Rajasthan is known for its imperial heritage, vibrant culture and captivating landscapes. But what all we know about its state figures? “Being a millennial” the word only rings a bell for learning those names, as to pass a GK test in school or brushing up one’s general awareness for any other competitive exam. However, state figures of Rajasthan are the de facto essence of its territory. They represent the state in its unique way and introduces one to the magnitude of the state’s geographical and cultural history. So today, let’s learn a little bit more about these amazing state symbols of Rajasthan.
The State Tree – Khejri
Let’s start exploring the state symbols of Rajasthan with a tree that Rajasthani citizens worship on the auspicious day of Vijayadashami or Dussehra. The state tree – Khejri. – ‘Kalpvrikasha of the Thar‘. It can easily be seen all around the state but densely found in the Nagore district. In 1983, Rajasthan government declared Khejri tree as a state symbol. The tree has its own “save the tree” movement. It was led by Amrita Devi in the year 1730 among 363 people altogether. Isn’t it fascinating at that era too, people knew the importance of trees and natural preservation? Lastly, every year 12th of September celebrated as Khejerli Day.
State Animal – Camel & Chinkara
When it comes to state animal, regal Rajasthan not only has one but two state animals namely –
- Camel – The heritage and livestock animal of Rajasthan.
- Chinkara – The wildlife animal of Rajasthan.
We all know about camels and their peaceful nature. Camels – the ‘Ship of the Desert’; were the main pillars of transportation at one time and still are in remote areas. Sadly, due to shortage of pastoral lands and demand. Nowadays, breeders even refuse to keep them. That’s why these noble creatures are now decreasing in their homeland.
Chinkara – aka Indian Gazelle, is a well-known species of antelope. These agile creatures are predominantly found in Nahargarh, Jaipur. Furthermore, Ranthambore and Bandhavgarh National Park have also become their home. One of the unique features of this nimble-footed animal is, it can live up to days without even a single drop of water. Well, it looks like the camel has a best-suited buddy for the state animal.
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State Bird – Great Indian Bustard
On the 21st of May 1981, the government declared the Great Indian Bustard as the state symbol of Rajasthan. This coy bird is about 4 feet tall. The natives even call it ‘Sonchiriya‘, or the golden bird. Godawan’s natural habitat includes areas like – Jaisalmer, Ajmer and parts of Barmer in Rajasthan. Desert National Park of Jaisalmer is quite famous and attracts tourists from around the globe to witness these in their raw nature. Its not only a state symbol of Rajasthan, but also it is a major attraction for the bird-watchers
State Dance – Ghoomar
Let’s taste the culture and traditions of Rajasthan in the form of dance and music. Ghoomar is a dance form performed by ladies . Ghoomar – ‘Soul of Rajasthani Dance‘ is simple yet intricate dance form where all the ladies dance in circles and spin gracefully in sync with one another. Every festive occasion, be it Holi, Gangor, Teej or even Rajasthani weddings, are incomplete without this invigorating dance form. FYI there are no formal dancing schools for Ghoomar as it runs and lives effortlessly in every household of all the Rajasthanis.
State Game – Basketball
The state game of Rajasthan is Basketball. The thrill and awe of the game is the prime attraction of Basketball. The game highly celebrated in the state. The young players of the state have bagged many state-level titles. It became a state symbol of Rajasthan in the year 1948.
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State Flower – Rohida
Rohida is Rajasthan’s state flower, like Kherji (State tree) even, Rohida got recognised as Rajasthan’s state flower in the same year 1983. The beautiful orangish-yellow flowers blossom in the month from March to April. Rohida – Teak of Marwar is a kind of tree species and vastly seen in the western parts of Rajasthan.
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So, there it is, the essence of Rajasthan in one article, even though endless numbers of blogs won’t do justice to what this quaint yet colourful land offers. State symbols of Rajasthan are just a sneek-peak into what this huge state has to offer. These state symbols are worth preserving for the future generations in order to promote the lovely and lively culture of the state.
Follow Rajasthan Studio on Instagram for more amazing art and travel content. Reach out to us on email at contact[at]rajasthanstudio[dot]com. This blog is curated by Rajasthan Studio and written by Kritika Tak.
