Though Holi is over, Indore’s biggest celebration of Vasant is just around the corner! The city is all set for Rang Panchami, with the grand Gair procession happening tomorrow. This is no ordinary festival as Gair transforms the streets into a colourful, high-energy spectacle with dhol beats, dance, and an electrifying atmosphere!
A peek into the history of ‘Faag yatra’ or Gair festival
The heart of the celebration lies at Rajwada, the historic palace of the Holkar rulers, where the Gair procession begins. As thousands of people gather, the air fills with gulal and water sprays from massive tankers and motor pumps, ensuring that everyone, whether in the crowd or watching from balconies gets drenched in the festival’s colours.
The beats of traditional drums and lively dance performances add to the excitement as the procession winds through the streets. Known by different names, the Holi procession or ‘Faag yatra’ or Gair, the origins of the celebration date back to the Holkar dynasty, when members of the royal family joined the common people in playing Holi, breaking social barriers.
Initially, bullock carts carrying herbal colours and flowers were used, but today, the festival has evolved into a larger-than-life spectacle. Over the years, it has become a key cultural event in Indore’s identity, attracting not just locals but also visitors from across the country.
Knock Knock!
People from other cities and even foreign countries visit Indore to witness the grand Gair procession. Like last year, the administration built arrangements for people to watch the event from rooftops along the procession route for a better view.
Beyond the colours and celebrations, Indore’s famous food culture adds to the experience. After enjoying the Gair, crowds head to Sarafa Bazaar and Chhappan Dukaan to relish local delicacies like poha-jalebi, kachoris, and khopra patties.
With the city transforming into a kaleidoscope of colours tomorrow, this is an event you wouldn’t want to miss!
