Events of the month

Kartik Poornima 2009
Kartik Poornima is celebrated at Udaipur's Jagmandir Island Palace. A majestic and colourful festival took place on Jagmandir Island Palace on the 2nd November. A multi talented performer Shree Guru Bireshwar Gautam probably one of the finest rising stars of classical music in India and flautist Pandit Ronu Majumdar enthralled guests as their music filled the air with messages of love and humanity.

Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar of Udaipur, the 76th. Custodian of the House of Mewar and Chairman and Managing Trustee of the Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation (MMCF), graced the occasion with family members, special invitees from the city and International guests visiting Udaipur. Captain C. P. Krishnan Nair, Chairman, The Leela was Chief Guest for the occasion. For many, it was the first time that they had witnessed a celebration of the 'living heritage' of Eternal Mewar.

H.H. The Maharaj Sahib Gaj Singhji of Jodhpur lighting the lamp with Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar of Udaipur and Captain C. P. Krishnan Nair

Kartik Poornima is the only day of the year when Lord Brahma, the Creator of the Universe, is worshipped. At Udaipur's City Palace Complex, this ancient festival has always been a celebration with dance and music on this night of the full moon during the month of Kartik, according to the Hindu calendar. “Through this performance we endeavour to symbolise the worship of our creator Lord Brahma. Tonight, we present a confluence of mystical sounds and sacred dances that we hope will transport you to the seat of universal divine love where the creator and creation are one,” said Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar of Udaipur.

“Kartik Poornima is an inspiring and uplifting festival,” said Thakur Bhupendra Singh Auwa, deputy secretary – Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation, adding, “It is a regal festival that has been traditionally celebrated at the City Palace in Udaipur for centuries. We are proud to uphold this age-old tradition and make it meaningful for 21st century guests visiting Udaipur.

This year the stage was set for Vrindavan evoking the playfulness and lovable characteristics of Shri Krishna. Vrindavan included a Jugalbandi performance by Shree Guru Bireshwar Gautam and Pandit Ronu Majumdar. The accompanying artists included Shreya Sabbarwal – Kathak and Folk Dancer, Pandit Ramkumar Mishra – Eminent Tabla Players, Shree Kaushik Basu and Shree Mukesh Choudhry (Manas) – Musician. With Shree Guru Bireshwar Gautam and Pandit Ronu Majumdar the performers presented Darbari Kathak, Bansuri ki Cherchar and Milan.

Kartik Poornima was celebrated in association with HRH Group of Hotels, Udaipur. After the performance dinner was organized at the Jagmandir Gardens, where food prepared by the chefs captured the spirit and mood of the festival.

Mr. Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar of Udaipur, General Manager, Jagmandir Island Palace, said, “We want every guest to experience the original and authentic heritage of Mewar; the regal festival of Kartik Poornima and the dinner at Jagmandir Gardens are just one example of our commitment and endeavour to make a visitor's experience memorable in Udaipur”

At Jagmandir Courtyard a special exhibition displayed merchandise from Aashka – The Lifestyle Boutique conceptualized by Ms. Bhargavi Kumari Mewar of Udaipur. Aashka promotes and develops crafts and artefacts from the Mewar region. Stone, marble, metal and semi-precious stone products were displayed for guests together with exclusive Amrapali Jewellery selected by Ms. Mewar, silver objects and Venetian glass were also on display. Aashka boutique is located at The Manek Chowk, The City Palace Complex, Udaipur.