French Tourist, Author, and Photographer Mrs. Anne Sorel Presents Her Travel Guide Book “Rajasthan” to Rajasthan Tourism Secretary

Jaipur : Those who visit Rajasthan are captivated by its colors and charm. Such was the experience of Anne Sorel, a tourist, author, and photographer from France who first visited Rajasthan in July 1974.

On Friday, at the Rajasthan Tourism Bhawan in Jaipur, French traveler, author, and photographer Mrs. Anne Sorel met with Tourism Secretary Mr. Ravi Jain and presented her French travel guidebook, “Rajasthan”, which documents her experiences and photographs of Rajasthan. Mrs. Sorel also invited Mr. Ravi Jain and Tourism Commissioner Mr. Vijaypal Singh to her upcoming event in Jaipur on November 27, 2024, celebrating her 50 years of travel in Rajasthan. Joint Director (Tourism Development) Mr. Rajesh Sharma and Joint Director (Fairs & Festivals) Mrs. Punita Singh were also present.

Tourism Secretary Mr. Ravi Jain expressed pleasure over Mrs. Sorel’s efforts to promote Rajasthan in France through her photography and travel guide. He said that her French-language travel guide “Rajasthan” would undoubtedly increase curiosity about Rajasthan among French-speaking tourists, offering them a close look at the state’s tourism offerings.

Mrs. Anne Sorel shared that this is the eighth edition of her book. She has previously published seven editions of this travel guide, each time reimagining it with a fresh perspective.

In “Rajasthan,” Mrs. Sorel captures the essence of Rajasthan’s tourist attractions, particularly its rural areas, local lifestyle, art, and culture, enriched by her 50 years of experience in the state. The guidebook highlights Rajasthan’s geographic diversity, historical monuments, and folk culture, detailing daily life, religious beliefs, fairs, and festivals.

The travel guide reflects the people’s positive outlook on life, and their enthusiasm and joy during festivals. It also features Rajasthan’s colorful attire, diverse cuisine, melodious folk music, proud history, unique geography, harmonious social life, and warm hospitality, all embodying the spirit of “Atithi Devo Bhava” (The Guest is God).

Over the past fifty years, Mrs. Sorel has toured all of Rajasthan, exploring not only tourist spots but also its villages and hamlets, which she has described in her guidebook, complemented by photographs. The guide makes special mention of Jaipur’s Kanota Museum, Jaigarh, Amer, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, and City Palace.

Speaking about her book, Mrs. Anne Sorel said, “I have portrayed Rajasthan as I see it and as I wish to experience it. I have delved deeply into subjects related to Jaipur and its famous sites, which I have covered in my book.”

Mrs. Sorel added, “When I observe Rajasthan, I am in no rush. I take my time to explore Rajasthan deeply, to feel its essence. I am eager to learn about its art and culture. I lose myself in the unique exuberance of its folk music. I love listening to the singing of Langa artists and the sound of the sarangi. Along with folk music, I also enjoy classical music in Rajasthan. My experiences of listening to Langa and Manganiyar artists have deepened my connection with Rajasthan, which I have recorded in my book. I am not just a tourist; I am here for a soulful experience of Rajasthan.”