Why the Dharohar Show is a Must-See Experience in Udaipur
When the sun dips behind the Aravalli hills and Lake Pichola glows under the evening sky, Bagore Ki Haveli in Udaipur comes alive with one of Rajasthan’s most enchanting cultural experiences: the Dharohar Show. For travellers eager to dive deeper into the state’s traditions, this performance is more than just entertainment—it’s an intimate glimpse into centuries of Rajasthani art, storytelling, and heritage.
The Historic Setting: Bagore Ki Haveli
Bagore Ki Haveli, built in the 18th century by Amar Chand Badwa, the Prime Minister of Mewar, is itself a treasure trove of history. Located on the Gangaur Ghat, overlooking Lake Pichola, the haveli was once home to the royal family of Mewar. With over 100 rooms adorned with frescoes, courtyards, and intricate glasswork, it exudes the grandeur of Udaipur’s architectural past.
In modern times, the haveli has been restored and converted into a museum. But its most beloved attraction remains the Dharohar Show, a celebration of folk dance, puppetry, and music that takes place every evening in its courtyards.
The Dharohar Show: A Cultural Extravaganza
The Dharohar Show is a carefully curated performance that introduces audiences to Rajasthan’s living traditions. Over the course of an hour, it blends dance, music, and puppetry to narrate stories passed down through generations.
Folk Dances: The show opens with graceful performances like the Ghoomar, a circular dance performed by women in colourful ghagras, and the Bhavai, where dancers balance brass pots or even glass bottles on their heads while performing intricate steps.
Kalbelia Dance: Performed by the Kalbelia tribe, this dance mimics the movements of serpents and is one of Rajasthan’s most iconic art forms.
Puppet Shows: Rajasthani puppetry, or Kathputli, takes centre stage as traditional wooden puppets act out humorous yet meaningful tales of kings, queens, and village life. The puppets bring history and folklore alive, often with witty commentary that leaves audiences laughing and reflecting.
Music: The performances are accompanied by soulful folk music played using traditional instruments like the dholak and sarangi, creating an immersive atmosphere.
Why It’s a Must-See
The Dharohar Show isn’t just a performance—it’s an experience of Rajasthan in miniature. For travellers short on time, it condenses the vast cultural landscape of the state into a single evening. Unlike touristy spectacles, the Dharohar Show is intimate, authentic, and deeply rooted in local traditions.
It also serves as a bridge between past and present, ensuring that these art forms, once performed in royal courts or village gatherings, continue to thrive today.
Practical Information for Visitors
Timings: The Dharohar Show is held daily from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Seating is limited, so it’s best to arrive early.
Tickets: Tickets can be purchased at Bagore Ki Haveli. Prices are budget-friendly, making it accessible to all kinds of travellers.
Venue: The show is staged in the haveli’s courtyard, which adds a layer of intimacy and authenticity to the performance.
Tip: Bring a camera, but avoid flash photography, as the dimly lit, traditional ambience is part of the magic.
The Cultural Significance
The Dharohar Show not only entertains but also preserves and promotes Rajasthan’s intangible heritage. For locals, it’s a way to pass traditions to future generations; for travellers, it’s an unforgettable window into the soul of the desert state.