Rann Utsav 2015 – 2016
Rann Utsav draws tens of thousands of visitors to Kutch every year. It is a great opportunity to experience the culture of Gujarat.
Kutch is the cradle of creativity. It is the largest district in the state of Gujarat. Actually, no other district in any other Indian state is larger than Kutch.
Kutch has a unique topography. It becomes wet and dry intermittently. The Rann of Kutch which covers a large area of this district is a shallow wetland. It remains submerged during the rainy season. When the rainwater dries up the marshy salt flats in Rann becomes snow white. The ‘white desert’ has always drawn tourists to Kutch. And now Rann Utsav ( Utsav means festival) draws even more tourists.
Rann Utsav celebrates the skills of local singers, dancers and artisan. It is organized with the purpose of reviving century-old traditions.
Rann Utsav is a cultural festival that showcases the skills and talents of artisans, folk artists and musicians of Kutch. It has made this barren land a tourist destination famous all over the world.
Kutch’s traditional music is influenced by folk songs and Sufis. Musicians use traditional instruments like manjira, rava, morchay and bhorrindo. Kutch is also known for its handicraft industry. Garments with ethic embroidery, traditional jewellery, wall paintings and wood carvings are crafted here.
Rann Utsav was first organized in 2005. It celebrated life, culture and festivities of Kutch and Gujarat. What started as a 3-day affair has now become a major celebration lasting 3 months. Rann Utsav provides visitors an opportunity to experience the diverse culture, traditions and hospitality of Kutchi people.
During Rann Utsav Gujarat government arranges special facilities like accommodation and transport for visitors. The Tourism Corporation of Gujarat also offers guided sightseeing tours.
When you are in Kutch, don’t forget to visit places like Kala Dungar, Aina Mahal, Vijay Vilas Palace, Mandvi Beach and Swaminarayan Temple. If you are the adventurous kind, try participating in activities like rifle shooting, camel safari, archery, para motoring and All-Terrain Vehicle riding.
Rann Utsav revives century-old traditions and provides tourists an unforgettable experience. Visit Kutch during this Utsav to enjoy its beauty, colors, customs and traditions. The famed ‘White Desert’ is waiting for travelers. On full moon nights during Rann Utsav, the region will come alive with dance, drama and merriment.
How to get there
By air: Board a flight to Bhuj which is the administrative city of Kutch. From the airport you can hire a taxi or an auto rickshaw.
By train
Trains are more affordable, convenient and comfortable. Every major Indian city is connected to Bhuj by the rail route. The Kutch Express is the best option.
By road
You can also go by road and that will be a fascinating experience. Kutch is connected to other parts of the country by National Highway 8. Government and private buses run at regular intervals.
Rann Utsav is organized between November 18, 2015 and February 29, 2016. You can find more information here: www.gujarattourism.com