Camel Race in Rajasthan (Osian 2008)
January 15th, 2008 | by Ridhima Suri |Rajasthan is a land of exotic architecture, sand dunes and lots of camels (don’t take me seriously; there is more). I had a special opportunity to be an audience to rare camel races in Osian (about 50 kms. from Jodhpur, also known for a very sought after temple of Osiyan Mataji). The audience comprised of the Governor of Rajasthan, Mr. S.P.Singh, family members of the Royal family in Jodhpur and few guests. I would call it a private viewing. It was a very decent affair and as we arrived at the Sand Dunes (venue) we were quickly escorted in Jeeps to the racing site. The afternoon sun shone bright as we found solace in the shamiana (tent) set up for guests. I was informed that there were 9 races in all, and the winner would go home with a prize of Rs. 1 lakh.
Local music played at a distance and I noticed the Camel riders getting ready for the next race.The camels made a fashion statement in multi-coloured adornments and shining musical jewellery. Some were quiet while a young camel was not happy with his master and was probably protesting. If he were able to talk, I am sure he would say, “I am tired!!!I do not want to run again!!”
The race was very interesting and offered an opportunity to bet. Once the race was over, the camels would cat-walk (please read camel-walk) in front of the audience and people judged, betted and guessed who would win next. As the camels started racing, the rising sand posed a beautiful view. As the camels disappeared on the track, one kept guessing who would win. It was funny to observe some camels just stop during the race and others running off the track. The remaining camels raced and the riders looked anxious yet triumphant. Keen people who were betting heavily had their own reasons to guess who would win. I was just thinking “May the best Camel win”.
Tags: Camel Race, Interesting, Rajasthan
