Two-day celebrations to mark Jodhpur's 556th foundation day

Two days of colourful festivities will mark the foundation day of India'a blue city Jodhpur, which turns 556 tomorrow.
As part of the celebrations starting today, cultural programmes, seminars and photo exhibition highlighting the regional folklore, art and architectural heritage of the city have been lined up, District Collector Preetam B Yashwant, said.
To mark the historic occasion, the main circles and important buildings in the city would also be illuminated this evening and will also see folk performances apart from a grand cracker show, official said.
The main foundation day will have the people of the city waking up to the chants of mantras, ajans, verses and prayers at the religious spots of the city apart from the melodious tunes of Shenai at the five historic entrance gates of the city tomorrow.

"The main functions will, however, be held at the Umaid Government Stadium and the City Town Hall on May 12 focusing on the folklore of not only the region but the entire state, Yashwant said.
Founded by Rao Jodha in 1459 AD, Jodhpur is identified with its traditions, festivals, water bodies, blue-coloured houses, and the majestic Mehrangarh Fort.

However, it has off late consistently gained recognition as a global destination for plush weddings and birthday celebrations apart from shoots of various ads and films, both from Bollywood and Hollywood like Rudyard Kipling's Jungle Book' and James Bond series flick 'Octopussy'.

Also, keeping a growing tally of events of global standard, the city is now a destination for music festivals.
"Jodhpur is now identified with the music festivals like Rajasthan International Folk Festival, World Sufi Spirit Festival and now the Jodhpur Flamenco and Gypsy Festival",Director, Mehrangarh Museum Trust, Karni Jasol, said.