Bikaner is a city in the northwest of the state of Rajasthan
in western India. The city is the administrative headquarters
of Bikaner District. It was formerly the capital of
the princely state of Bikaner. The city was founded
by Rao Bika in 1486 and from its small origins it has
developed into the fourth largest city in Rajasthan.
The Ganga Canal completed in 1928 and the Indira Gandhi
Canal completed in 1987 have allowed the farming of
crops such as mustard, cotton and wheat. Other industries
include wool production and the mining of gypsum, plaster
of Paris and bentonite.
Bikaner If ever beauty has bloomed in a desert, it has
been at Bikaner. Founded in 1488 AD by Rao Bika Ji,
it's located in north west part of Rajasthan state in
INDIA. The imposing palaces, beautiful and richly sculptured
temples of red and yellow sand stones display some of
the finest creations of Rajput civilization. It's lust
for "dessert" or affection for "desert"
that tickles every heart to visit Bikaner.
Bikaner is famous for its "Bikaneri Bhujia"
and its sweets. Bikaneri Bhujia is a spicy snack made
from moth dal, spices and edible oil. Bikaner is also
known for its handicrafts and leather articles, for
its palaces and for having the biggest camel farm of
Asia.
The city is also known for its intricately carved
Jharokas. These stone screens are found on the windows
of forts and havellis - traditionally, women would
use the screens to watch the world while remaining
hidden.
The red sandstone for these stone window screens
is supplied by the nearby village of Dulmera.
Bikaner is also a centre for Usta art. The work for
the prosperity of the Usta art is being done in Bikaner
for centuries. Usta art is characterised by miniature
paintings and gold embossing done on, ceilings, pillars
, walls, marble, wooden & Glass wares and ivory.
But its real beauty and charm can be seen on the pieces
of camel hide. The products of Usta art have been
the acquaintance of Bikaner for centuries. |