Barmer/Jaisalmer, Jan. 31 -- The Maru Mahotsav 2026 began on Friday in Jaisalmer with traditional rituals and grand celebrations. The festival was formally inaugurated at the Shri Laxminath Temple inside the Sonar Fort in the presence of former Maharawal of Jaisalmer Chaitanya Raj Singh. This year, Maru Mahotsav is being organized on the theme "Beats of the Thar", highlighting the rich folk culture, traditions, and desert heritage of Rajasthan. After the rituals at the temple, a grand procession was taken out from Gadisar Lake, passing through Gulasta Road, Gopa Chowk, and the main market before reaching Shaheed Poonam Singh Stadium. The procession featured the BSF Camel Tattoo Band, folk artists in traditional attire, decorated camels and camel carts, colorful tableaux, and glimpses of the legendary characters Moomal and Mahendra. Residents welcomed the procession with flower showers, while folk dancers and musicians filled the streets with the vibrant rhythms of desert culture. Tourists from India and abroad were seen enthusiastically clicking photographs, adding to the festive atmosphere across the city. On the first day, 20-year-old Kusum Panwar, a BA second-year student from Bikaner, was crowned Miss Moomal. She attracted attention by wearing 45 tolas of gold jewellery and credited her success to her brother Ankit, who prepared her for the competition. Manish Panwar from Jaisalmer won the Mr. Desert title, impressing judges with traditional grooming practices. The Mrs. Jaisalmer title was claimed by Taj. The three-day fest will continue with a series of programs showcasing the state's folk traditions, music, and dance....