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Hamirsar Lake

A water body at the heart of Bhuj town, Hamirsar Lake is located in Kutch, Gujarat. Bhuj is known for hot and dry summers. This lake is considered an oasis between saline and arid Kutch. The kings had built this lake to fulfill the domestic needs of people of Bhuj during ancient times.

Hamirsar Lake was well developed with a cannel and tunnels that used to carry water from three rivers to fill the town’s reservoirs with water. But after the earthquake of 2001 in Bhuj, this water system was gravely disturbed. The municipality and people of Bhuj took initiatives to revive the water system to its original form to be able to fulfill the needs of its people once again. This was achieved in 2003. The water of Hamirsar Lake became safe to be consumed. This manmade lake was named after Rao Hamir, a Jadega ruler who ruled around 450 years ago. Rao Hamir is the father of Rao Khengarji, the founder of Jadega dynasty in Kutch.

Jadega community claims to be descendents of Krishna, a pivotal figure from the Indian epic Mahabharata. At a time when India became republic, the princely state of Kutch was ruled by Jadegas. The king had combined 12 landowning families and two Waghela families to form this state.

Augan of Hamirsar

Augun of Hamirsar is a unique festival celebrated in Kutch at a time when the lake overflows due to rains. This festival has been followed since the times of ancient kings. The King at that time would perform a Puja when the lake overflowed and Megh laddoos (sweets) were distributed as prasad to the people of Kutch. Puja was done as a thanksgiving to the almighty and to welcome new water into the lake.

This festival was recently celebrated in 2010 by the people of Kutch when the lake had overflowed as it did during the time of royal kings. And is traditionally done, Megh laddoo’s were distributed to people as a community dinner. Hustle and bustle prevails in the city during celebrations. People are overjoyed with happiness and people from nearby places also gather to enjoy the festival with them.

Attractions at Hamirsar Lake

This lake is a center of recreation activities. People enjoy swimming and playing in the lake. It’s also a place to find some natural shade on a hot summer afternoon.

One can enjoy a spectacular view of Aina Mahal, Prag mahal, Kutch Museum and Alfred High School while walking on the lakeside. One can even visit temples such as the Ram Dhun Temple and Swaminarayam Temple.

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Hamirsar Lake
Hamirsar Lake
Hamirsar Lake
Hamirsar Lake
Hamirsar Lake
Hamirsar Lake

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