Pushkar, located in Ajmer district of Rajasthan, is one of the ancient and famous pilgrimage centers of India. This religious town surrounded by the Aravali hills is known for the holy Pushkar Sarovar, Brahma Temple and the International Pushkar Fair held every year. Pushkar has the status of a special pilgrimage in Hindu religion. Devotees from all over the country come here to take bath in the lake, visit temples and perform religious rituals.

The most special identity of Pushkar is the temple dedicated to Lord Brahma. Generally, the temples of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva are more visible, while the temples of Lord Brahma are relatively less. For this reason, the Brahma temple of Pushkar holds special importance from religious and historical point of view.

How did Pushkar get its name? There is a mythological story to the lotus flower.
There is a famous mythological story regarding the origin of the name Pushkar. According to belief, Lord Brahma was looking for a suitable place on earth to perform Yagya. During this time a lotus flower fell from his hand. At the place where the flower fell, a source of water arose and the sacred Pushkar lake was considered to be the origin. Due to this story to the lotus flower, this place got the name Pushkar. This story is also mentioned in the report of the Devasthan Department of Rajasthan Government. According to religious tradition, Pushkar is also seen in three parts, called Jyestha Pushkar, Madhya Pushkar and Junior Pushkar.

The belief of Savitri's curse is linked to the temple of Lord Brahma.
Another popular legend is prevalent about the Brahma temple of Pushkar. It is believed that Lord Brahma was performing Yagya in Pushkar, but his wife Goddess Savitri could not reach the Yagya on time. Seeing the auspicious time for the yagya, Brahma ji completed the yagya by marrying Gayatri. It is said that being angry with this, Goddess Savitri cursed Brahma ji that he would be worshiped only at limited places. Due to this belief, special importance is given to the Brahma temple of Pushkar. However, this is religious folklore, not a proven historical event.

Why is Pushkar Sarovar called Tirtharaj?
Pushkar Sarovar is considered extremely sacred in Hindu religion. It is also called 'Teerthraj' i.e. king of pilgrimages. There are many temples and 52 bathing ghats around the lake. There is a religious belief that taking a bath here on the occasion of Kartik Purnima brings virtue. In the month of Kartik, a large crowd of devotees gather at the ghats of Pushkar Sarovar. People perform puja and pray for the happiness and peace of their families. The temples and ghats located around the lake are an important part of Pushkar's religious identity.

Why is Pushkar fair famous all over the world?
Pushkar is also known for the annual cattle fair held here. Pushkar Fair, held during October and November, is a major celebration of the folk culture of Rajasthan along with the trade in camels and other animals. Buying and selling of animals, traditional competitions, folk music, handicrafts and local food are the centers of attraction in the fair. Religious activities also increase in the fair around Kartik Purnima. Devotees from different parts of the country and a large number of foreign tourists reach Pushkar. This fair plays an important role in giving international recognition to the rural traditions and tourism of Rajasthan.

Where else can you visit in Pushkar apart from Brahma Temple?
Apart from Brahma Temple and Pushkar Sarovar, tourists coming to Pushkar can also visit Savitri Mata Temple, Varaha Temple and Rangji Temple. Savitri Mata Temple is situated on a hill, from where a beautiful view of Pushkar city and the lake is visible. Pushkar is located about 145 kilometers from Jaipur and about 15 kilometers from Ajmer. This place is easily accessible by road. The nearest major railway station is Ajmer. Pushkar is such a religious and cultural heritage of Rajasthan, where mythological beliefs, ancient temples, sacred lakes and folk life are visible together. Due to the famous temple of Lord Brahma and Pushkar fair, this small pilgrimage town is recognized not only in India but also in foreign countries.