One of the largest Cattle fair in Asia,the month-long Sonepur mela starts in Bihar

NewsBharati 03-Nov-2017

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Sonepur, November 3: The pride of Northern Bihar , Sonepur Cattle fair has started from Thursday. One of the prominent events of Bihar, the month-long cattle fair has been inaugurated by Bihar deputy minister Sushil Modi. This fair is one of the largest cattle fairs in Asia and famous for its rustic charm and cattle trade.

The fair is held on the banks of the sacred river Ganga. Every year in November, the fair cattle, takes place on the auspicious dates of Kartik Poornima (full moon day). The fair is not only a selling ground of but also of breeds of dogs, elephants, birds and camels. Some historians believe its origin dates back to the time of Emperor Chandragupta Maurya. Apart from the fair, visitors also come to pray their offer in local Harihar Nath temple.

Tourism minister Pramod Kumar said Bihar has got distinct identity with Sonepur fair. Sushil Modi released a book titled Mela Darpan which provides all types of information regarding the fair and all other programmes lined up for the event. The fair will conclude on December 3 and will have various cultural and musical programmes.

"In 2008, the state government stopped the transport of cows and bulls from here to other states like Assam and West Bengal following reports of their illegal slaughtering. Besides, the bird market has not been set up this time and any form of exhibition of elephants has also been stopped from this year. Hence, Sonepur fair is being gradually converted into more of a cultural event and the state government is committed to making it a grand affair," the deputy CM said.

With the time, the modernization of the fair also took place. Now over 20 departments from government sell items made by the in exhibition stalls. For the holy occasion, priests from several part of the country have also gathered.

Sonepur Cattle fair Bihar Ganga