Page 7 - Connect 2024-25

Exploring the Highest Peak of Aravalli
Mount Abu

Sangeeta Choudhary, PGDM II

Introduction station used to be a haven from the heat of the desert,
Most people have vivid images of Rajasthan, including having served as a summer retreat for Rajput kings and
wide deserts, rolling sand dunes, and intense heat. But a British colonial retreat. It’s also rich in mythology, as
what if I told you there is a location in this sun-drenched evidenced by stories connecting it to historical sages and
state where the temperature is pleasantly cool, the the Puranas’ reference to it as Arbudaranya.
scenery is beautiful, and the air is crisp? Welcome to
Mount Abu, the only hill station in “Rajasthan”—a true Folklore Legends of Mount Abu
oasis in the desert. The Story of Nakki Lake
Located in the Aravalli Range, Mount Abu dispels the The story revolves around Rasiya Balam, a skilled
myth that Rajasthan is an entirely arid region. With its craftsman who falls in love with the daughter of a king.
lush forests, tranquil lakes, and beautiful views of the To win her hand, he must build the Dilwara temple to
plains below, this amazing hill station—located 1,722 perfection. He succeeds, but the king’s wife imposes
meters above sea level—offers a cool relief from the an impossible condition: digging a lake with his nails
heat. Situated on the rocky plateau’s slopes, the village before the rooster crows the next morning. Rasiya Balam
of Abu is a quaint resort that blends natural beauty with miraculously completes the task, but the king’s wife
a rich spiritual and cultural heritage. transforms into a rooster and crows before the marriage
Guru Shikhar, located at Mount Abu is the highest peak can take place. Rasiya Balam and the Princess, both turn
in the Aravalli Range, it is a must-see for those who want into stone statues and disappear. The temples have been
to explore a distinct side of Rajasthan. built at the exact spot where they disappeared, facing
In addition to its magnificent natural and architectural each other directly. The Princess by locals is popularly
features, Mount Abu has an interesting history. This hill known as kuwari kanya which means unmarried girl.

(Image from Unsplash.com by Romi Kalathiya)

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