Pushkar and the Camel Fair is a photographer’s dream. The vibrant saris and the intricate jewellery of the women, the weathered faces and proud moustaches of the men, and the endless movement of the fair itself provided me with endless inspiration. Since 2009 it was always a dream to return, and I did that this year; November 2024.
I spent the entire week shooting exclusively on film, balancing between 35mm and 120 formats, capturing moments that felt timeless. This project on a personal level revisits that unforgettable experience and very beginning of my photographic journey.
Puja
Pushkar town is built around a sacred lake, believed in Hindu mythology to have been created when a lotus flower fell from the hands of Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe. The lake is encircled by 52 ghats—stone staircases leading to the water’s edge—where rituals and religious ceremonies take place. While the camel fair is what draws many visitors to Pushkar, the true significance of November lies in Kartik Purnima, a holy festival marked by a series of ceremonies centered around the full moon.
On the first evening of the festival, the largest Puja (a ritual offering) is held, transforming the lake into a radiant scene. Pilgrims gather to light candles, offer prayers, and make offerings to Brahma and the lake, creating a truly mesmerizing atmosphere. Here are a few photos from that Puja :)
Back to the fair!
The following day, I spent hours wandering through the dunes, about 2 kilometers west of the town center, immersed in the vibrant life of the Rajasthani nomadic communities, their camels, and other livestock. I met fascinating people, shared countless cups of chai, captured their portraits, and observed the intricate ‘art of the deal’ as camel traders negotiated with skill and intensity.
Around Town
While the men typically remain in the dunes just outside Pushkar town, many of the women head into the bustling streets to purchase food, clothing, and other supplies. The town comes alive with an infectious energy—vendors eagerly trying to sell anything and everything, streets filled with vibrant colors and the constant hum of human activity. The air is rich with the scent of incense and street food, creating an atmosphere that’s both chaotic and captivating—perfect for street photography!
My Chai Guy
Every day I visited this man’s chai stall. Without question, he made some of the finest masala chai I have ever tasted. A small wooden bench, a bubbling pot, and the most welcoming smile in all of Pushkar.
The Fairground
Positioned between the town centre and the dunes, the fairground was a whirlwind of sights and sounds—wild rides, heavy-beating music, and scenes that were both beautiful and surreal. At one point I spotted a cow draped in a pink sari wandering through the crowd.
As the sun set, the fairground truly came alive with the thumping of hard Indian techno, the Ferris wheel and tea cups spinning at dizzying speeds. Men wandered through the crowd with balloons of candy floss, and occasionally, a highly decorated camel would stroll through the chaos.
Last Sunrise amongst the Camels
My last sunrise among the camels was nothing short of magical. The light was perfect—warm, with soft purple and pink hues illuminating the faces of the people I had met. The air was thick with the smoky scent of burning firewood and the spicy aroma of masala chai as I wandered between the tents. The morning was brought to life by the hauntingly beautiful sound of the Bhopas—a local caste of musicians and entertainers—playing their handmade folk instruments, while camels quietly drank from a nearby trough.
The Last Sunset
Pushkar is encircled by small mountain peaks, one crowned by the charming Savitri Mata Temple. On my final evening, I trekked upward through the winding path for panoramic views of the city below as the sun dropped towards the horizon. Sunsets in India are truly magical, painting the sky with pink and purple hues—perfectly captured on film.
All photos shot on Mamiya 645, Leica R & Olympus OM1