The Jaipur Literature Festival, fondly referred to as the “Greatest Literary Show on Earth,” stands as one of the most significant events on India’s cultural calendar. An annual event held in Jaipur, the capital city of the western Indian state of Rajasthan, this festival hosts some of the world’s best literary figures, attracting participants and attendees from across the globe.
Founded in 2006, the festival has quickly become a defining event for anyone interested in literature and the arts. It is typically held at the Diggi Palace Hotel, a heritage site in Jaipur known for its beautiful architecture, lush gardens, and congenial ambience.
Although the Jaipur Literature Festival’s primary focus is literature, it embodies a rich tapestry of artistic expressions. It features music performances, cultural events, and art installations from local and international artists.
The artwork on display at the festival often represents a fusion of traditional and contemporary styles. You can encounter folk art installations from various Indian states alongside modern art installations from international artists. In previous years, the festival has showcased art projects like live sculpture-making, art performances, murals, interactive installations, and vibrant, colourful pop-up stalls offering an array of handicrafts and artwork.
Visitors can also witness the age-old tradition of ‘phad’ painting or scroll painting, a style of folk painting from Rajasthan, often narrating folk deities and their stories. One can also admire the Jaipur ‘blue pottery’, an exquisite craft form featuring a bright Persian blue dye.
These artistic showcases not only provide an aesthetic appeal to the festival but also serve as an expression of India’s rich artistic heritage, reflecting the country’s vibrant cultural diversity.
The festival often collaborates with various art institutions and organizations, providing a platform for budding artists to showcase their talent. For example, the festival has seen collaborations with the likes of the Foundation of Indian Contemporary Art (FICA) and the ZEE Jaipur Literature Festival Art Project.
How to get there:
International visitors can fly into Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, as it’s the primary international gateway to northern India. From New Delhi, Jaipur is well connected by air, road, and rail.
By Air: Jaipur International Airport is the primary airport serving Jaipur. There are several daily flights from New Delhi to Jaipur, taking approximately an hour. Many major airlines operate this route. From the airport, one can take a pre-paid taxi to the city center or the festival venue.
By Rail: The Indian Railways network is vast, and Jaipur is well-connected by train services from several cities, including New Delhi. Trains like the Shatabdi Express, Rajdhani Express, and the Double Decker Express run frequently between these two cities. The journey takes around four to five hours.
By Road: Jaipur is well connected by road to major Indian cities. From New Delhi, Jaipur is approximately 268 kilometers away via the NH48. One can rent a car or take a bus. The drive takes around 5-6 hours, depending on the traffic.
It’s important to note that the actual experience of traveling in India can be quite different from what you’re accustomed to, particularly if it’s your first time visiting. Traffic can often be chaotic, and the standard of driving may not be what you’re used to. It’s generally recommended that first-time visitors hire a driver rather than self-drive.
Once you reach Jaipur, getting around is relatively easy. Auto-rickshaws, cabs, and on-demand taxi services like Ola and Uber are widely available. For a more local experience, you can also explore the city in a cycle rickshaw or on foot. However, be prepared for the hustle and bustle typical of Indian cities
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