Growing up in Bihar means that you’ll be exposed to something called Mela. We used to have one for every occassion. There was one for Shivratri and a bigger one during Durga Puja. We used to wait for the puja vacations to start so that we can visit the mela grounds with parents.
One of the fairs was organized in Sonepur. It was our favorite place to be at New Year. In my childhood, Sonepur Mela had a more vibrant appeal that unfortunately violated many rules and regulations. From trafficking of rare animals to prostitution in the name of theater, there was everything that we will call unlawful today. Despite everything that happened behind the scenes, Sonepura mela remained in the list of best things to do in Bihar. Both Vaishali and Sonepur had their own cultural and mythological value and were counted among important places to visit in Bihar.
Times changed, we grew up and moved to bigger cities in search of a better life. Sonepur Mela started to lose its charm, not only for us but in general.
Last year when I visited this fair to shoot this video, it looked like a different place. Like an old frail man, Sonepur Mela is now counting its last days. Once counted among the most unique festivals in Bihar, it is now remained as a rural attraction. The lack of popularity and any initiative by Bihar government has ruined this festival. I wonder that how long till the Fair organizers stop coming here and move to the more lucrative options present in Nepal and Uttar Pradesh. We are just counting days until the stories of the biggest cattle fair of Asia will remain in videos like this.
Note: By the time I reached here, the cattle had already gone. This video shows the essence of mela and my stupidity to capture the actual thing that I was talking about.
About Sonepur Mela – Sonepur Mela is the biggest cattle fair of Asia organized near Hajipur. An hour away from Patna, Sonepur is located on the banks of Gandak River and has a huge importance in mythology. Sonepur Mela is nearby attraction and one of the best places to visit near Patna.
Sonepur Mela is a month long festival that runs between late November and early January. One can travel from Patna by bus or taxi, spend a day and return home the same day.
Thanks for giving us a glimpse of village life.
Sometimes when the city life gets too much I want to move away to a village and actually live there. But I know I won’t be able to.
I love reading about exotic places that I most likely will never have a chance to visit. The traditions of other cultures are so fun to learn about. Thank you for a very interesting insight into rural life in your country.
It can be tough when excitement starts to die out for things, that’s for sure. Your post was interesting to read.
I really enjoyed this. I love when I find new posts about places I’ve never been, especially when there is a very interesting cultural aspect as well.
I’ve never heard of this place before, but it sounds like an amazing place to visit. I would love to check it out someday.
That photo of the car going around is wild. I would love to see that in action.
Thank you for a very interesting insight into rural life in your country. I am so much excited to live in such a place. Great post and I love these kinds of posts.
It’s unfortunate how such traditional forms of entertainment are dying in our country.
Wow, this is such an interesting post to read and I am so glad that your able to give a good insight about rural place.
Love your story and your photos. What an adventure you are on.
Sounds like fun memories! Well, there will really be changes but isn’t it good to have good memories? I am so curious about Bihar!
Those photos look so professional and beautiful! I haven’t been here before but now I’m aware of it so I’ll know if I ever go here!
A cattle affair sounds awesome…before though since today’s kids have very different preferences although I know that a much as you’ve grown, special memories like those are still cherished by you,right?
aww this brings up feelings of nostalgia. As someone who left my home country at a young age, i have found memories of friends and places. Before we left Zambia for England. There was this field where we used to play and it was amazing, you can play and do anything there. However as times have changed etc, that play area is now a new housing estate.
That instagram post is crazy! Im still trying t figure out how they managed to do that! Great insite into your youger though .