It is one of the most well-known annual tribal fairs held in the district of Dungarpur in Rajasthan. This fair is organised in the months of January to February, significantly two weeks following the new moonlight in the Magh Month. The core motive of this fare is to support tribal culture and is described as the Kumbh Mela for the tribal people. In this festival, devotees offer fruits, ghee, flowers, jaggery rice and cash to their god in return for good fortune and a healthy life.
Dates and history
Date: 8th to 12th february
The Baneshwar Fair Holds a lot of importance in the Bhils tribal community. This community is based in Rajasthan and nearby states. The clan of the community gathers here in large volume, which makes this festival look like a Kumbh Mela of tribals. At the time of its origin, the name Bhaneshwar addressed Lord Shiva and Shivling. Other than this, the Mahadev temple near the confluence of the Som, Mahi and Jhakad rivers also plays a very significant role in this festival. It is believed that this fare in India has been held for over 500 years.
Popularity and key Highlights
This fair is one of the significant symbols of togetherness and religious spirit. The fair is an annual fair celebrated for four days in the month of January-February. Devotees visit the Lord Shiva temple early in the morning, offering prayers and conducting other rituals. The tribal market, religious procession and tribal sports will introduce you to unique Indian tribal culture. Other than this, you can also experience magic shows for more fun. Let’s explore some of the major highlights of this event in detail:
- This fare is the combination of two fairs, in which one is held at the Shiva Temple and the other one at the Vishnu Temple.
- This fair holds a special space for the Bhils tribe and they gather in the fare celebrate the festival with joy
- In the evening, you can experience the devotees dancing around the bonfire in the temple performing Rasleela
- It is believed that if the bhils immerse the ashes of their deads at the confluence of the river, it results in “Moksh.”
- The Mathadhish, a priest, takes a bath in the river and the people also bathe with him to show their deviation.
- This is the time when you can experience a lot of art, traditional rituals, cultural dance acrobatics, magic shows, etc.
It is one of the most vibrant festival heads in the city and reflects a unique tradition and diversity of Indian culture. If you want to explore the unique cultures in India, we recommend you attend the Baneshwar Fair at least once in life. After enjoying the Baneshwar Fair in Dungarpur, you can also make your trip extra special by extending it to Udaipur and caving the most memorable stay at Goya hills, a Private Pool Villa in Udaipur.
