Jodhpur - The Blue City Revealed
Undoubtedly the main reason people go to Jodhpur is the majestic Mehrangarh Fort. This is a truly awe-inspiring building, which houses a fascinating museum; however a visit to the fabled Blue City would be incomplete without discovering the old part of Jodhpur.
After the construction Mehrangah Fort in 1459, the Rajput king Rao Jodha moved his capital here and people were invited to settle in the new capital city of Jodhpur (pur in Hindi means city).
The old town is planned in the form of the human body - Mehrangah Fort represents the head, the right hand represents the Bhramins or the priest community and the left hand the ministers, important Thakurs, landlords and other people in service at the Royal Court. The stomach represents the business class who were mainly wealthy merchants engaged in trade and commerce. Finally, the legs, represent all the manual labourers, lower cast or harijans and milk men.
This walk uncovers four largely undiscovered areas of the old city - Bhrampuri , Nav Choukiya, Sarafa Baaar and Katla.
Significant highlights include:
Brahmpuri is the settlement of the Brahmins; their blue houses are packed together along narrow streets. Other sites include historic temples and shrines as well as ponds and ancient wells which are still used today.
Nau Chokiya is a bustling square in the heart of the old city which has been a popular meeting place for many centuries. Local villagers in vibrant dress congregate here to find work, old men sip chai and play cards and the place is wonderful for people watching and photo opportunities.
Gangshyam ji ka mandir is a lively temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.. This is a Bhakti temple where the devotees initiate the prayers which take place six times a day. At these times the temple is alive with beautiful chanting.
Ram Rasodais a charity kitchen which serves food to 150 people every day. See the volunteers preparing rotis and vegetarian dishes in the spotless kitchen. Outside see gold and silver smiths working traditionally in their small shops.
See the Inderraj Singhvi ki Haveli which belonged to the prime minister of the former king.
Jaisalmerio ki gali was settled by migrants from Jaisalmer and has a unique architectural style with balcony carvings in the ornate style of their original home town.
Enjoy tea and snacks in the 150 year-old haveli of a jeweller – the terrace offers wonderful views of the city.
Katla is a market where everything from household items, vegetables and jewellery are all sold – see a lac bangle maker demonstrate his craft.
Achal Nath Ji Ka Mandir is a temple maintained by Naga Sadus and dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The walk concludes at the famous Clock Tower where the famous foodsfrom Jodhpur, including makhaniya lassi and mawe ki kachori can be tasted.
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