Fairs of Chhattisgarh

Fairs of Chhattisgarh

The youthful, zestful and fun-loving tribal populace of Chattisgarh also rejoices in many fairs held annually across the state. Two of the major fairs are :

Narayanpur Mela :

Introduction : Each and every festival of different communities inhabiting Chhattisgarh, be it of the Hindus, the Muslims or the Christians, is celebrated with equal zest. The fairs portray such an indomitable unity among the communities and inimitable culture of the state.

Description : Although the term ‘Mela’ stands for a fair, Narayanpur Mela is more of a sort of festival than a fair. Celebrated in the Bastar district of the state, this festival occasions the following of a multitude of customs and traditions by the tribal population. Many tribal deities are also worshipped on this occasion. Heart rendering devotion follows unrestrained rejoicing in the activities of the fair. Drinking and collective dancing to the enchanting beats of the drums are the integral parts of the fair. This fair is a reliable source to provide an insight into the ethnicity of the tribal populace.

Sheorinarayan Fair :

Introduction : Owing to a culture that is diversified to the core, this state exults the most in this fair, held in Sheorinarayan, which is in keeping with the tradition of India to organize fairs in the temple premises. This fair is held in the small town of Seorinarayan which is located at the juncture of three rivers- Jonk, Mahanadi and Sheonath. Originated in the 13th century, the Sheorinarayan temple honouring Lord Rama, hosts this fair every year.

Description : The entire Sheorinarayan can be seen injected with a new enthusiasm for living and cheerfulness during the time of this fair. Devotees of Lord Rama come from various places to visit the temple and get actively engaged in each and every agenda of the fair. After the offerings, the devotees have a wide range of choices to spend the day in the fair like moving around the shops that have an array of diverse items in store. Besides, the fair also houses many food joints to suit the taste buds of everyone. The fair also hosts innumerous activities that engages the attention of the people present and leaves a long-lasting impression in their mind as well as heart. The happy faces of the simple minded crowd of the state give immense pleasure to the other visitors as well.