Ram Ram Sa!
Well I think Chokhi Dhani (चोखी धानी) does not require an introduction. The place has earned its popularity so much that at least a few folks in the neighborhood would definitely have visited it at some place or other. Chokhi Dhani at Pune is no different. Spread over 18 acres, the Chokhi Dhani Village at Pune provides a glimpse of Rajasthan’s famous cultural legacy.
It was worth visiting this small ethnic village which embraces visitors with such warmth. One gets easily carried away by the great hospitality and simplicity of the people of Rajasthan. After enquiring over phone we came to know that the main gate of this village opens at 5 in the evening and we reached there by 5:30 pm.
The place was hugely crowded with groups of college students & families’ et al. who had come to enjoy & spend their weekend at Chokhi Dhani. It was obvious that we were not the only ones fascinated by the idea of visiting this authentic village.
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| The map |
After entering, the very first thing we noticed was Krishna temple where a priest was offering
चरणामृत to the visitors. Then we headed towards the स्वागत कक्ष
(Reception counter) which leads to the village. Also at the entrance, there is a detailed map of the Chokhi Dhani displayed. In front of the
SWAGAT KAKSH one of the villagers was standing with a
thali in his hand to welcome the guests and was greeting everyone saying राम राम सा (RAM RAM SA) followed by Tilak ceremony.
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| Swagat tilak |
Puneet supported ethnic wear (Kurta) on this special visit and just out of excitement the person who was performing the tilak ceremony laid his own pagdi on Puneet’s head. We collected the tickets and 10 free coupons (to enjoy some rides/ games) from the reception counter. Next, we were served with a welcome drink (Jaljeera) and evening snacks which included dhokla, kadi pakoda, mix pakodas etc. which tasted nice.
We enjoyed camel ride, arching, shooting, a magic show and traditional puppet show (kathputaliwala). Shaifali even got a Mehandi done (in less than 2 min!!) Some of the other attractions at Chokhi Dhani include- ghoomer dance, drum dance, rajasthani puppet show (कठ्पुत्लिवाला), astrologer(ज्योतिषी), massage centre and many other fun games. Also, there are small shops (collectively called
haat bazaar) for buying rajasthani jewellery and other such items. Another must watch is the shows where village artisans show-case their skills.
And finally comes the best part of the whole experience – Grand dinner!
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| lavish ! |
The Chokhi Dhani grand dinner could easily be one of the biggest contributors to the success of Chokhi Dhani concept. It is an authentic rajasthani mouth watering meal which is served in a traditional manner by the mezbaan. The meal includes 5 dishes, 2 sweet-dish, 3-4 types of pickle, Khitchdi and paapad. The best part is the manner in which the meal is served – one practically gets to understand the meaning of the word ‘hospitality’.
I must say that a visit to Chokhi Dhani is an experience one cherishes for long time. It is a complete entertainment for about 3-4 hrs especially when one visits it as part of a large group.
A must visit with friends & family!
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| Haat Baazar |
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| The crowd |
Well I think Chokhi Dhani (चोखी धानी) does not require an introduction. The place has earned its popularity so much that at least a few folks in the neighborhood would definitely have visited it at some place or other. Chokhi Dhani at Pune is no different. Spread over 18 acres, the Chokhi Dhani Village at Pune provides a glimpse of Rajasthan’s famous cultural legacy.
We enjoyed camel ride, arching, shooting, a magic show and traditional puppet show (kathputaliwala). Shaifali even got a Mehandi done (in less than 2 min!!) Some of the other attractions at Chokhi Dhani include- ghoomer dance, drum dance, rajasthani puppet show (कठ्पुत्लिवाला), astrologer(ज्योतिषी), massage centre and many other fun games. Also, there are small shops (collectively called haat bazaar) for buying rajasthani jewellery and other such items. Another must watch is the shows where village artisans show-case their skills.
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