The Pushkar Fair, renowned for its vibrant mix of culture, tradition, and livestock trading, has added a new feather to its cap in 2024. The iconic event has been a celebration of Rajasthan’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, and the latest edition culminated on Friday in a grand ceremony coinciding with the auspicious Kartik Purnima.
Presiding over the event was Rajasthan’s Deputy Chief Minister, Diya Kumari, who performed the traditional Aarti and participated in religious rituals, marking a fitting conclusion to one of India’s most renowned fairs. Diya Kumari announced transformative plans to develop the sacred town in collaboration with the Central government, aiming to emulate the holistic rejuvenation seen in Kashi Vishwanath and Ayodhya. “Pushkar is not merely a spiritual hub for Rajasthan; it is a sacred destination revered by the entire nation,” said Diya Kumari. “Our development plan seeks to preserve its timeless heritage while introducing modern infrastructure to enhance the experience for devotees and visitors alike.”
The comprehensive plan focuses on the beautification of Pushkar Lake and its ghats, alongside the introduction of state-of-the-art amenities for pilgrims and tourists. From improved facilities to an enhanced cultural calendar, the vision underscores the balance between tradition and progress.
A Record-Breaking Year:
This year’s fair was a resounding success, drawing over 600,000 domestic pilgrims and 20,000 international tourists over its seven-day run—an attendance unmatched since 2019. The record numbers underscore Pushkar’s growing global appeal and Rajasthan’s effective tourism strategies. The Deputy Chief Minister also underscored the fair’s role in promoting Rajasthan’s vibrant cultural identity on the global stage. With plans to host larger cultural events and improve tourism infrastructure, the government is committed to ensuring Pushkar remains a vital cultural and spiritual hub.
Not to be missed: India’s most expensive buffalo for INR 23 Crore!
From its traditional roots as a trading ground for camels and cattle, the Pushkar Fair has evolved into a global event that attracts high-value transactions and international attention. At this one-of-a-kind annual fair, this year the focus extended beyond camels and cattle to Marwari and Kathiyawadi horses, whose soaring popularity resulted in record-breaking sales of over ₹11 Crore—far outpacing other livestock categories. The surge in demand for Marwari and Kathiyawadi horses reflects a growing appreciation for premium livestock breeds in India. Known for their majestic appearance, agility, and endurance, these horses have become a symbol of prestige among buyers.
Yet, the undisputed star of the show was a buffalo named Anmol, valued at an astonishing ₹23 Crore, making headlines nationwide. The presence of Anmol, an eight-year-old Murrah buffalo from Haryana, stole the spotlight as buyers were curious to know the special qualities of this livestock. Owned by Parminder Gill of Hissu village in Sirsa district, this magnificent specimen was showcased as a symbol of excellence in Indian cattle breeding. Gill revealed that the buffalo’s daily diet costs around ₹1,500 and includes an impressive array of high-calorie, nutrient-rich foods. Additionally, the buffalo enjoys luxurious grooming sessions, including two daily baths with almond and mustard oil to maintain its lustrous skin. This meticulous regimen highlights the dedication of livestock owners who see their animals as both investments and sources of pride.
Nivi Shrivastava