Jaisalmer, Rajasthan: In the historic city of Jaisalmer, the Gangaur festival is marked by a unique tradition that sets it apart from celebrations elsewhere in India. Devotees here worship Goddess Parvati—locally known as Gauri—without her consort, Lord Shiva.

Observed during the Hindu lunar month of Chaitra, the Gangaur festival typically honours the divine couple, symbolising marital harmony and devotion. However, in Jaisalmer, the absence of Lord Shiva from the rituals is rooted in a centuries-old legend.

According to local folklore, the idol of Lord Shiva, referred to as Isar in the region, was taken away nearly 400 years ago by people from Bikaner during a dispute between the two cities. Since then, the idol has not been returned, and no replacement has been made.

Historians say that both idols were once part of the festival procession.

"The idols of both Gangaur Mata and Eshar were once present here, and the procession used to begin from this place. There was a dispute between Bikaner and Jaisalmer. During one such procession, some people from Bikaner allegedly came and took away the idol of Eshar. People here now appeal to those in Bikaner to return the idol so that Goddess Gangaur is no longer alone.."

Another historian, Tan Singh Sodha, noted that while the idol of Goddess Gauri was preserved, the absence of Isar remains a matter of historical debate.

"We were able to protect the idol of Goddess Gangaur, but later the idol of Eshar was taken away. It is believed that the idol is still in Bikaner. The matter remains controversial, as does its history. If efforts are made to respectfully bring back the idol of Eshar to Jaisalmer, it would mark a new chapter in history," he said.

Cultural beliefs have also reinforced this practice over time.

‘’When the idol was taken, according to Indian tradition, a woman does not remarry. That is why Goddess Gangaur remains without Eshar, and no new idol was made for the procession,'’ said Omprakash Bhatia, a historian

Despite the missing idol, the festival continues to be celebrated with devotion and grandeur. For the people of Jaisalmer, Gangaur is not merely a religious occasion but a living symbol of their history, identity, and enduring hope for reunion.