Bhadchha Fair held in Sainamaina

By Our Correspondent,Rupandehi, Jan. 20: The historic Bhadchha Fair, which begins at night and concludes the same night, has started in Bharcha village, ward No. 8 of Sainamaina Municipality in Rupandehi.

With a history spanning 115 years, this fair is the oldest among the fairs of Rupandehi. 

Organised every year on the occasion of Maghe Aunsi, the fair has been playing a major role in preserving the art and culture of the Tharu community.

As it is considered one of Nepal’s oldest and most historic fairs, members of the Tharu community have said that its historical legacy must be preserved.

Chairperson of the organising committee, Buddhiram Chaudhary, said that the fair helps promote the cultural identity of the Tharu community and provides a platform to highlight local talent.

During the three-day festival, various cultural performances will be presented, including Tharu cultural Jhumda, Jharra and Mayur dance, and other traditional programmes.

Cultural coordinator Ram Bahadur Tharu said that the Bhadchha Fair contributes to preserving the traditions and culture of the Tharu community that are gradually disappearing. 

Similarly, this year devotional song (bhajan) competitions as well as folk dance competitions have also been organised.

Recognised as an ancient fair that begins and ends at night, the Bhadchha Fair mainly showcases the culture of the local Tharu community. 

This year, bhajan and folk dance competitions have been added as well.

Mayor of Sainamaina Municipality, Phadendra Prasad Sharma, said that the role of the Tharu community is important in preserving the historical significance of the fair and that the municipality has also been providing support. 

According to legend, the fair was started by a sage in ancient times.