Jaisalmer city is enriched by the tradition and cultural ethnicity. In it the contribution of culture of Rajputs and its various facets like their gallantry, heroism, and staunchness even in the midst of adversities is really commendable. All the people are rooted to desi culture and traditional norms .In its vista of traits like cuisine, lifestyle, music and dance forms one finds the reflection of this cultural exuberance. Fairs and festivals also are part and parcel of the culture of Jaisalmer city.
Cuisine is a key element, which depicts the culture of Jaisalmer city in its truest sense. It is renowned for its wide variety of sumptuous dishes which all are cooked in light oil. Each and every one of different age groups starting from five to fifty, have developed taste for these dishes. Jaisalmer cuisine is very much influenced by the typical North Indian style of cooking. The dishes are normally `dry and rich` and with the addition of red chillies these dishes became more `hot and spicy`. Bhanon Aloo , Ker Sangri, and Kadi Pakora are some Jaisalmeri delicacies. Most popular is Ker Sangi, which is made from things like desert beans and capers. The conventional Rajasthani style is followed for its preparation. Veggies love to savor it. Bhanon Aloo is the name of vegetarian delicacy. It is cooked out of potatoes with mint stuffing and also cooked in huge gravy. The dish becomes richer when spices and condiments are added. It takes near about forty-five minutes to prepare this tasty dish of Jaisalmer.
If any one wants to eat something light, Kadi Pakora is ideal for him. This dish is cooked using 4 `dumplings and yogurt`. One of the most favorite non-vegetarian delicacies of the land is Murgh-e-Subz is the favorite delicacy for non- vegetarians. It is cooked with boneless chicken items and shredded vegetables. It is quite a juicy dish, which has gained popularity amongst the localites.
Music and dance forms the richness of the culture of Jaisalmer city. They became an integral part of the lives of people of Jaisalmer. The community of snake charmers performs Kalbeliya dance form. They are called Kalbeliya. All the sapera dancers execute this sensuous dance wearing special attires like elongated black-colored skirts, which are also nicely embellished with silver ribbons.
They follow a unique style of dancing. While spinning in a circle their whole bodies sway in a manner as if they are doing acrobats. Seeing their postures one can easily think that their bodies are made up of rubber. Tempo rises with the increase of the beats, dancers increase their speed to their utmost level.
So far as music is concerned, melodious songs of Jaisalmer are sung in accompaniment of varied musical instruments. Kamayacha is one such instrument. It has a large, circular resonating chamber, which creates a deep smashing sound.
Festivals too highlight the tradition and culture of Jaisalmer city. It was the time when people forget their day-to-day hassles and bask into the fun of festivity. People get the chance to beautify the houses, buy innovative clothes, go to meet the relatives and friends. Sumptuous food also is prepared for every occasion like marriage, celebrations commemorating birth of a male, good harvest, and monsoon.
