Malasar

Malasar () (हिंदी: मालासर) is a large village located in Bikaner District which is in the north-west of the state of Rajasthan, India. The village serves as the Panchayat headquarters for three nearby villages. There are a total of 450 houses in the village. This village is popular for its unique geographical location, beautiful sand dunes and sandy paths located in the heart of the Thar Desert.

It is located from Bikaner, from Jaipur,
from Jodhpur, and
from New Delhi.

The village is administrated by a sarpanch (head of the village panchayat) who is elected every five years. In 2011 the population of the village was 3,500, with 450 households.

Etymology

Malasar is made up of two words "Mala" and "Sar" where "Mala" comes from Maloo ji Godara, son of a popular Jat ruler Pandu Godara. "Sar" stands for a sarowar or pond or source of water in local language.
The word "Mala" is derived from Sanskrit language where "Mal" means "wrestler" and "Sar" means a source of water or oasis in desert hence the alternative meaning of Malasar is "Oasis of wrestlers" as villege is inhabited by exceptionally tall and well built Godara jats ,a clan of Indo Aryans. It is generally believed in the local context that traditional wrestlers had two skills to display, first wrestling and second lifting a heavy stone (''called a Mala in local language'') above their height, a type of weight lifting.

History

Before the arrival of Rathores, Godara Jats were the rulers in Jangladesh. Godara Jats handed over the rule of Jangladesh to Rao Bika on various terms. At that time Godara Jats were ruling about 700 villages in Jangladesh. Pandu Godara was the Patriarch King of Godaras; his residence was in Shekhsar. Important towns of their region were: Pundrasar, Gusainsar Bada, Shekhsar, Malasar, Gharsisar, Garibdesar, Rungayasar, Kalu etc. People of this clan were known as great and ambitious warriors.

Geography

The total geographic area of Malasar in 2011 was 4319 hectares. The village lies in the Lunkaransar assembly constituency and the Bikaner parliamentary constituency. The location (village) code of Malasar is 069063.

Climate

The climate in Malasar is characterised by significant variations in temperature. In the summer season it is very hot when the temperatures lie in the range of 28 to 50 °C. In the winter, it is fairly cold with temperatures lying in the range of −4 to 23.2 °C. Annual rainfall is in the range of 260–440 millimetres. The highest ever temperature recorded is 49.5 °C on 19 May 2016 and lowest ever recorded is −4.0 °C on 26 January 1964.

Culture and Festivals

Holi, Deewali, Aakha Teez, Sawan Teez, Bhaar, Goga Navami, Navratri, Ogra, Gangor, Vivah, Eda, Basida, Chhuchhak, Muklawa, gawara pujan, relevance of kuwa in village, Gofiya, kankad,

Traditional Games

In a time untouched by the distractions of mobile phones and modern gadgets, childhood in villages was shaped by the simple yet profound joy of traditional games. These games were not just pastimes; they were the heart of life, creating beautiful memories that continue to bring a smile to those who experienced them. They fostered strong social bonds, uniting individuals in laughter, camaraderie, and friendly competition. In an era when money was scarce and luxuries were few, these games became a source of pure happiness, proving that joy could be found in simplicity. They were not only a great source of entertainment but also played a vital role in physical development, fueled by the wholesome food of the time—organic grains, ghee, milk, and curd. The soft, sifted soil of the Thar Desert in villages added a unique charm to these games, making every moment special. The best time to play many of these games was near Holi or under the gentle glow of the moonlight, where the cool breeze and open skies turned the village into a magical playground."Traditional games have been an integral part of rural life, fostering social bonds, physical activity, and simple entertainment. These activities are often played on the soft soil of the Thar Desert, particularly during festivals like Holi or under the moonlight, creating cherished memories." Description based on cultural practices and traditional knowledge. Further sources may be needed to verify specific details.

Ghoda Kabbadi

Ghoda Kabbadi(स्थानीय: घोड़ा कब्बड्डी ) is a traditional game played between two teams. The playing area is divided by a line, and one player from the Ghoda team is nominated as the Ghoda, who sits in a small circle on the opposite side. A player from the Ghoda team enters, chanting kabbadi, kabbadi, and tries to touch the opposing players while ensuring that the Ghoda is not touched by the opposing players as the Ghoda makes his way back to their side of the line from the circle. The goal is for the Ghoda to return safely to their side without being touched.

Luka Meechani

Luka Chhupi (स्थानीय: लुक मीचणी )is a game of hide and seek where one player counts while the others hide. The seeker tries to find them, and the game continues until all players are found.Singh, Rajendra. "Traditional Childhood Games of Rural India." ''Indian Folklore Studies'', vol. 12, no. 2, 2018, pp. 45-57.

Maar Dari

Maar Dari is a traditional game where "dari" (दड़ी) refers to a cloth ball. One person hits the ball toward others who are trying to catch or avoid it. The objective is to avoid being hit by the ball while trying to control it.

Luniya Khati

Luniya Khati is a traditional game played by drawing figures on the ground using soil dividers. The layout typically consists of squares or lines arranged in a specific pattern. One player runs behind and tries to cross the drawn lines without being touched by the opposing player. The goal is to complete the run and return to the starting point before being tagged. The game tests speed and agility while also promoting friendly competition.

Satoliyo

Satoliyo is a traditional game played with seven stones. The objective is to toss one stone in the air, pick up the remaining stones one by one, and catch the tossed stone before it falls. It tests coordination, skill, and precision, with players taking turns to complete the task.

Etti Daand

Etti Daand(स्थानीय: इट्टी डांड ) is a traditional game played with two sticks—a larger one called the "Daand" and a smaller one called the "Etti." The objective is to strike the Etti with the Daand, sending it into the air, and then hitting it as it lands. The game is similar to cricket but with simpler equipment. It requires skill, precision, and good hand-eye coordination, and is typically played in open spaces.

Gadda (गडडा)

Gadda (Five Small Stones) is a traditional game where players throw five small stones in the air and catch them in various sequences. It tests coordination and skill, with players aiming to complete the task without dropping the stones.

Kabaddi

Kabaddi is a popular team sport where players take turns to enter the opposing team’s side, tag opponents, and return without being tackled. It is played near Holi, under moonlight, and often on soft sand. The game requires strength, strategy, and endurance.

Wrestling

Wrestling(स्थानीय: घोळ ) is a traditional sport in the village where two opponents try to pin each other to the ground using strength and technique. It requires skill, strategy, and physical endurance. Wrestling often takes place near the Holi festival, and villagers eagerly discuss who won the battle, with the outcome being the talk of the night during the Holi celebrations.

Mala Uthana

Mala Uthana is a traditional strength-based game played during the Holi festival. In this game, a high-weighted stone is picked up with one hand and lifted to a certain height. The challenge lies in the weight of the stone, requiring considerable strength and determination to complete the task. It is often performed as a test of physical power and is a popular activity during the Holi celebrations in rural communities.

Hadbali

Hadbali(स्थानीय: हडबळी ) is a traditional game played during the Holi festival, where excitement fills the air. A cloth ball is thrown at a large stick (called "Bali") placed across two stones. The goal is to knock the Bali off the stones by hitting it with the ball. This simple yet thrilling game brings together skill, precision, and festive spirit, making it a cherished part of Holi celebrations in rural communities.

Khuta Gediya

Khuta Gediya is a traditional game played during the Holi festival that adds an extra level of enjoyment to the celebrations. In this game, a player stands inside a round circle, called "Khuta" (खुता), and uses a strong wooden stick, called "Gediya" (गेडीया), to hit a ball made of cloth bound with cotton ropes. The aim is to hit the ball to the ground, and if it is caught by someone, the catcher gets the chance to hit it. Additionally, if the ball touches the hitter’s body, the turn shifts to the person who threw the ball. This thrilling game creates excitement and fun, making the Holi festival even more lively.

Dholiyo Bhato

Dholiyo Bhato(स्थानीय: धोळियो भाटो ) is a simple yet exciting game played during the night. In this game, a white stone is thrown to the ground, and the challenge is for players to search for it in the dark. The game adds an element of thrill and fun, as players must rely on their instincts and quick reflexes to find the stone. Ii is often played under the moonlight.

Kite Flying (किरणी)

Kite flying is a popular activity in the village of Malasar, especially during Akha Teez (आखा तीज) or Akshay Tritiya in the Hindi calendar. Villagers fly colorful kites and compete to cut others' strings, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere. It brings the community together, with people of all ages participating in the fun and enjoying the festive spirit.

Gola (गोळा)

Gola (गोळा) is a traditional game played with marbles, where players aim to hit a target marble by flicking their own marbles. The objective is to knock the opponent’s marbles out of a designated area while keeping one’s own marble in the target zone. Gola requires precision, accuracy, and skill, making it a popular and engaging game among children.

Kaan Kutni

Kaan Kutni is a lively traditional game where one player climbs a tree while another throws a piece of footwear. The challenge for the climber is to reach the top quickly, while the second player retrieves the footwear and tries to hit the climber with it before they descend. The game is fast-paced, requiring agility and speed, and often leads to laughter and playful competition. It is typically played in open spaces and adds excitement to rural festivities.

Ghoda Jamal Khaye, Piche Dekhe Maar Khaye

Ghoda Jamal Khaye, Piche Dekhe Maar Khaye is a traditional game filled with fun and energy. In this game, players walk or run in a straight line, mimicking a horse's movement, while ensuring they do not look back. If a player turns around, they are lightly tapped or "punished" by others, adding a playful and humorous twist to the activity. This game encourages focus, discipline, and laughter, making it a favorite pastime among children in rural areas.

Rai Rai Ratan Talai

Rai Rai Ratan Talai is a traditional game filled with excitement and energy. A circle is drawn on the ground, and all participants except one enter the circle. The kids inside the circle shout the lyrics:

''Rai e rai ratan e talai''

''Miryo dubyo dab dab karto''

''Denkli Moldi kin chhod ke kine ghamkai.''

The person outside responds loudly:

''Bhagu ne Chhod ke Harman ne ghamkai (Examples).''

Harman, upon hearing their name, steps out of the circle. Both the outsider and Harman then try to pull participants out of the circle one by one. However, the kids inside the circle can kick at the outsiders to defend their position. The game is fast-paced, requiring strategy, teamwork, and quick reflexes, making it a thrilling activity for children.

Dune Sliding

Dune Sliding is a fun traditional activity where children use polyethylene sheets to slide down sand dunes, especially after rain when the soil becomes wet and smooth. The game requires balance and speed, with children racing to the bottom of the dune while enjoying the thrill of sliding. It is often done in the village's dunes, adding excitement and enjoyment to the rainy season.

Teego

Teego is a traditional game where players place stones in a specific sequence. The first step is to bring three stones and arrange them in a straight line. The challenge is to add different types of stones one by one, following a set pattern or task. The game requires precision, coordination, and strategic thinking as players work to complete the pattern.

Chidiya Ud, Tota Ud, Bhains Ud

Chidiya Ud, Tota Ud, Bhains Ud is a game where players follow instructions to "fly" or stay grounded based on the leader’s command. It encourages coordination and quick reactions.

Playing Cards Games

Mirch, 420, Teree, Kot Pees, and Kali Begi are card games played during free time in the village, focusing on strategy and skill.

Places of interest

Shiv Temple

Shiv Temple is located in the centre of village. It is considered one of the oldest temple in western Rajasthan, built around sixth century AD at the time of establishing Godara rule in Jangal by Nimbo Ji Godara.

International Camel Festival Site, Ladera

The International Camel Festival held at Ladera, Malasar, near Bikaner, is a vibrant celebration of Rajasthan's desert culture. Set against the backdrop of shining sand dunes and mesmerizing sunsets, the festival captures the essence of the desert's beauty and simplicity. Visitors are enchanted by the vast cushion of sand that stretches endlessly, showcasing the raw elegance of the terrain. The local culture comes alive with traditional music, folk dances, and camel races, creating a unique blend of heritage and excitement. The craze for this event draws huge crowds, as people gather to witness the grandeur and immerse themselves in the authenticity of this desert extravaganza.

Godhkheda Cricket Stadium

Godhkheda Cricket Stadium, located in the heart of Malasar Village, is a vibrant sports hub surrounded by majestic dunes that create a valley-like ambiance, nestled between mountains. The stadium, often filled with spectators from nearby villages, is the official home ground for Malasar's cricket team. Every year, it hosts the Malasar Premier League (MPL), a highly anticipated event with live streaming and real-time scoreboards. The league sees enthusiastic participation from numerous villages across the Bikaner district, making it a major attraction for local cricket lovers and players alike.

Bhomiyalo Johro

Bhomiyalo Johro(स्थानीय: भोमियालो जोहड़ो ) (Around 4 KM in the north of the village) is a government-owned Johar, a traditional structure designed to preserve water in arid regions. It resembles a natural pond but is naturally built with a flat and strong surface to efficiently collect and store rainwater. The Johro serves as a vital resource for the surrounding community, providing water not only for agricultural use but also for livestock and domestic needs, especially during dry seasons. The water stored here can be used by both animals and humans, As a government property, the Johro is collectively owned by the entire village, which means it is managed and maintained by the villagers. Typically, the villagers dig and maintain the Johro, ensuring it remains functional and that water is available when needed. This communal effort helps the village survive the harsh, water-scarce conditions typical of the region. The Johro is a testament to the traditional wisdom of the local community in managing natural resources and ensuring the welfare of both the people and their animals.
In addition to its practical uses, Bhomiyalo Johro also becomes a place of fun and recreation after the rains. The villagers, especially children, gather here to swim or play with the water. It provides a refreshing break and a chance for socializing, making it a lively spot in the village after the monsoons. The Johro, while essential for survival, also offers joy and a sense of community as the village comes together to enjoy the water.

Dhirano Johro

Dhirano Johro(स्थानीय: धीराणो जोहड़ो ), like Bhomiyalo Johro, is another important government-owned Johar in the region used to collect and store water, crucial for both agricultural and domestic needs. However, Dhirano Johro holds significant cultural importance for the villagers. It is a place where the community gathers to please the Rain God in hopes of a good monsoon for their crops. Villagers perform a traditional ritual known as "Bhaat," where they collect ghee and other essential food items, offer them in a Yagya (sacred fire ritual), and prepare food together. This practice reflects the villagers' deep faith in securing adequate rainfall for a successful harvest, making Dhirano Johro not only a functional resource but also a spiritual center for the community's well-being.

Shri Jasnath Ji Mandir

Popular Lok Devta Guru Shri Jasnath Ji Maharaj attained enlightenment in the nearby village of Katariasar. He founded the Jasnathi Sect and gave 36 rules to its followers. A main Peeth was established in Katariasar and 5 Sub-Peeths were established at other places. Malasar is one of the five Sub-Peeths. A popular temple was built in Malasar Bari. Every year a large number of devotees visit the temple. Guru Jasnath Ji Maharaj remains an influential figure for the village's spiritual and cultural life.

Doongalo

Doongalo (स्थानीय: दूणगाळों ) is an attractive place two kilometers north of the village.
According to local language the word Doongalo is derived from two words ''Doon'' and ''Galo'' where ''Doon'' means double or two times and ''Galo'' means sand dunes, hence it means double dune or huge dune, as it comes in the middle of the major tracks leading to agricultural lands of Malasar Village and historically, it was a harder slope to pass for camel carts or camel riders, hence it came to be known as double dune by local people, however when one goes there it appears very huge too, hence it got the honour of being called Doongalo.

Notable people

* Sumit Godara is a Cabinet Minister in the Government of Rajasthan. 15th & 16th, MLA from Lunkaransar.
*

Education

Malasar village has a rich educational history, with the Government Senior Secondary School in Malasar being a prominent institution since 1956. This school offers both Science and Arts streams, serving as the primary educational hub for students in the village. Additionally, there is the Government Girls Upper Primary School, which provides education to young girls in the area. Another private institution, Shiv Bal Vidya Mandir, exists in the village, but it is often not regarded as the best option for overall academic growth. For higher education, students from Malasar typically travel to nearby cities such as Bikaner and Jaipur, where they pursue various college and university courses to further their academic and professional aspirations.

Cuisine

Churmo

Churma is a sweet dish prepared in an instant. Hot cooked roti is crushed by hand and ample amount of Ghee is poured into it and sugar or jaggery is added for sweetness. Churma is ready to eat.
It is a common tradition to eat churma almost every time while eating in the village, it is considered the best way to consume Ghee to keep the body healthy and strong and one does not get bored of eating it daily. It is a habitual sweet dish, it is also easy to make, keeping all these reasons in mind, it is also a suitable dish to eat daily.

Bajri Go Khichdo

Bajri Go Khichdo is a traditional dish made from a mixture of ground millet (bajri), ghee, and other ingredients such as sugar. This dish holds significant cultural and traditional importance in the village. It is a must-have during the Akhateez festival (Akshay Tritiya), where every household in the village prepares it as part of the celebration. The preparation of Bajri Go Khichdo is not only a culinary practice but also a symbol of community bonding and cultural heritage, bringing the village together during the festival.

Bajri gi roti

Siro

file:Sooji Halwa (Semolina Pudding).JPG, This Indian Halwa recipe tests the many meanings of the word "simple". This wheat flour pudding is simple in the sense that it uses only 4 basic ingredients. Halwa is also simple because it requires nothing more than basic kitchen equipment: a pot and a stove. And finally, the technique is simple - simply stir and stir... combine... and stir some more.

Dal Ka Halwa

file:Dal ka Halwa.jpg, center, DAL KA HALWA : Halwa made from Dal, Desi Ghee, Sugar, Dry Fruits and other minor ingredients from aroma and delicacy. To celebrate festivals and special occasions

Agriculture

Agriculture is the main source of income of the village. More than 80 percent of the population here is directly or indirectly dependent on agriculture. In the traditional method of agriculture, crops are cultivated by camels pulling wooden or semi-wooden ''ploughs'' and the cultivation period is in July with plowing and harvesting in December–January. At present tractors and other equipment are widely used in farming. The main source of irrigation is rain water. At present tube-wells are becoming a popular source of irrigation. Due to availability of irrigation water throughout the year, many additional crops have also started being produced like cumin, Peanut, wheat, Mustard, isabgol and gram.

Guar

Guar is the main crop of the village and it generates a major part of the total agricultural income. It is the most suitable crop for village soil and requires less water than any other crop. In the village guar is used for selling in the market, boiling and feeding the cattle. After collecting and packing the guar seeds, the remaining dried stems of guar are used as cattle fodder, called ''Gwartaddi'' and kept in large stores for the cattle. Guar green leaves (''Gwarfalli'') can be used like spinach, and the pods are prepared like salad or vegetables

Bajri (Pearl Millet)

Bajri (Pearl Millet) is a traditional grain widely grown in arid regions, known for its versatility and nutritional value. It is typically cropped in the village when the monsoon arrives early, as it thrives in the rainfall conditions of the season. The primary use of bajri is in making flatbread, which is a staple in many households. It is also used as cattle feed, contributing to livestock nutrition. Additionally, bajri is often used to prepare dishes like khichda, a savory mix of grains and vegetables. It is considered to have better nutritional benefits compared to other grains, offering a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This grain is particularly preferred during the winter season due to its warming properties and ability to provide energy and strength.

Moth

Moth is a traditional spice of Bikaner, known for its distinctive flavor and integral role in the region's cuisine. It is commonly used in various dishes such as dal, Bikaneri bhujia, papad, badi, and Bikaneri pakode, adding a unique taste that defines the local cuisine. Moth is considered to be very tasty and aromatic, contributing to the rich flavors of Bikaneri snacks. There is also a mysterious, almost secretive, role that moth plays in the success of Bikaneri namkeen (savory snacks), with its subtle yet crucial influence on the taste and texture of these beloved treats. Its use in local delicacies has helped Bikaner establish a reputation for its exceptional and distinct food culture.

Demography

The population of Malasar, as recorded in the 2011 Census of India, stood at 3,500, with 1,798 males and 1,702 females. The village consists of around 400 families. The literacy rate in Malasar is reported to be 79%, with a positive trend in recent years. The primary occupations of the villagers include agriculture, self-employment, and jobs, including government service. In terms of caste distribution, 11% of the population belongs to the Scheduled Castes, 8% to the Scheduled Tribes, 70% to Other Backward Classes (OBC), and 11% to the General category. This demographic profile reflects the village’s diverse social structure and its reliance on agriculture and local employment.

References

External links

Malasar's Profile on Weather.Com
{{Portal, India

Villages in Bikaner district