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Introduction
Originally the abode of the Bhil and Mina tribes, Rajasthan is best known and etched in the history of India, for its Rajput kings. Divided into warring clans the Rajputs were the knightly race saluted for their gallantry and martial prowess. For Rajput kings were said never to receive a wound on their back in a battlefield. It was their custom to face the enemy and kill him. The Rajput women performed Jauhar- voluntary death on a pyre on the defeat of their king in order to save themselves from dishonor at the hands of the plundering enemy forces. These colorful people- the Rajputs have left behind a legacy of an indigenous music and craft, spicy food and their patronage for art an architecture, which accounts for the masterpieces in masonry strewn all over the state in the shape of exquisite palace, fortresses and artificial lakes. The state of Bikaner had its name from its founder ruler Rao Bika, the son of Rao Jodha the king of Jodhpur. A king of the Rathore clan of Rajputs, Rao Bika founded Bikaner in 1486 AD with aid from his uncle Rao Kandhal. Prior to the reign of Bika, Bikaner was known as Jangladesh which was peopled by the Jats. During the British rule Bikaner was the capital of the princely state of Bikaner. A hub of palaces and temples, Bikaner throbs with the vivacity of the local people and the flavor of Rajasthani cuisine. The local crafts make shopping in Bikaner a delightful experience.
Shopping in Bikaner:
Kote Gate
Wares on Display
While shopping in Bikaner you will be captivated by the numerous artifacts put on display. Beware of touts and watch out for the objects listed below:
• Jewelry
• Uncut stones
• Kundan jewelry
• Nokha Quilts
• Carpets
• Local fabric- Sanganeri, tie and dye
• Rugs
• Wood carvings
• Lacquer works
• Metal figurines and show pieces
• Camel leather goods
• Bhujia, laddoos and soan papdi can be carried home
Where to Shop
The shoppers' hub in Bikaner centers round Junagarh Fort and Kote Gate, King Edward Memorial Road and Station Road . The Khadi Emporium on Mahatma Gandhi Road is ideal for local rugs, blankets etc. The Urmil Trust at Junagarh Fort has some authentic Rajasthani crafts on display.
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