RAS question
Karni Mata Fair at Deshnoke is held during:
Correct answer: (C) Chaitra and Ashwin Navratri.
Karni Mata Fair at Deshnoke, Bikaner, is held twice a year during the Chaitra and Ashwin Navratri periods.
Explanation
Karni Mata Fair is held twice a year at the Karni Mata Temple in Deshnoke, Bikaner, during the two Navratri periods. Rajasthan Tourism gives the first span as March-April, from Chaitra Shukla Ekam to Chaitra Shukla Dashami, and the second as September-October, from Ashwin Shukla to Ashwin Shukla Dashami. Therefore, the correct timing is Chaitra and Ashwin Navratri, not Kartik Purnima, Bhadon Sudi, or Magh Purnima.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Kartik Purnima is a full-moon observance, whereas Karni Mata Fair is held during the Chaitra and Ashwin Navratri periods.
- (B) Bhadon Sudi does not match the fair's timing; Karni Mata Fair is held during Chaitra and Ashwin Navratri.
- (D) Magh Purnima is not the occasion for this fair; Karni Mata Fair is held during Chaitra and Ashwin Navratri.
Concept
This question tests the calendar association of Rajasthan's fairs. In Rajasthan culture questions, fairs are often distinguished by their place, presiding deity, month, and lunar tithi. Remember Deshnoke and Karni Mata with the two Navratri periods, not with a Purnima fair.