Fairs and Festivals of Bihar | BPSC Preparation: All subjects - BPSC (Bihar) PDF Download

Introduction

• Fairs and festivals in Bihar are an integral part of the state's rich cultural tapestry, symbolizing communal unity and heritage celebration.
• The diverse religious landscape of Bihar, encompassing Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Sufism, and more, comes alive during these vibrant celebrations.
• These events bring together communities in harmony, marked by fasting, feasting, traditional music, and dance, fostering a sense of togetherness and cultural rejuvenation.
• Tourists from across India and around the world are drawn to Bihar's fairs and festivals, known for their religious significance and deep-rooted folklore traditions.

Fairs and Festivals of Bihar

Chhath Puja

• Chhath Puja is a renowned and ancient festival in Bihar dedicated to worshipping 'Surya', the sun god. It occurs six days after Diwali and involves fasting, prayers, and offerings of sweets, kheer, and fruits. 
• The festival culminates with devotees congregating on the banks of the Ganges at sunrise.

Sonepur Cattle Fair

• The Sonepur Cattle Fair, Asia's largest, traces its origins to ancient mythology. Held annually on Kartik Purnima, it features the sale of domestic animals like cows, bulls, elephants, and more. 
• Additionally, the fair showcases handicrafts, handlooms, magic shows, and folk performances, drawing a large number of tourists.

Makar-Sankranti

• Makar Sankranti, a harvest festival akin to Pongal and Lohri, is celebrated in Bihar with rituals, floral offerings, and dips in the Ganges. 
• The Rajgir and Mandar Hills host a vibrant Makar Sankranti mela in January, characterized by kite flying activities and festive fervor.

Pitrapaksha Mela

• The Pitrapaksha Mela, a significant annual event in Gaya, Bihar, occurs every September. Gaya, renowned for its ancient Hindu temples, hosts this 16-day event where people from across India participate in ancestral worship as part of the Shraddha ritual. 
• This ritual, essential in Hinduism, aims to bring peace and salvation to departed souls.

Rajgir Mahotsav

• Rajgir Mahotsav takes place in the ancient capital of the Magadha empire, Rajgir, during the final week of October. This three-day festival, organized by the Bihar Department of Tourism, holds sacred importance for Jain and Buddhist communities due to its association with Buddha and Mahavira. 
• The celebration includes various cultural activities such as folk dances, devotional music, martial arts contests, and more, attracting tourists worldwide.

Bihula Festival

• The Bihula Festival, observed in the Bhagalpur district every August, honors goddess Mansa and seeks protection for families. 
• This festival showcases the Manjusha art form and commemorates the tale of Bihula, a girl who prayed to goddess Mansa to revive her husband, Lakshinder.

Buddha Jayanti

• Bihar, considered the place of Gautama Buddha's enlightenment, celebrates Buddha Jayanti in May at Bodh Gaya (now Rajgir) on the Baisakh Purnima. 
• This auspicious day witnesses thousands of Buddhists and global tourists gathering at the Mahabodhi Temple in Rajgir to offer prayers. The temple is adorned with Buddhist flags on this special occasion.

Conclusion

• Bihar is renowned for its rich culture, diversity, and vibrant communities. Its fairs and festivals are celebrated on a grand scale, attracting tourists from around the world. The state is home to various religious communities, including Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs. Among its notable festivals is Chhath Puja, Bihar's most significant and original festival, celebrated with fasting, feasting, and worship following Diwali.
• The Sonepur Cattle Fair, held in Sonepur, is the largest cattle trade fair in Asia, featuring cultural exhibitions and displays. Makar Sankranti, Bihar's harvest festival, is celebrated with pujas, festivities, and kite flying. Pitrapaksha Mela honors and worships ancestors and departed souls. The Rajgir Mahotsav, celebrated by the Jain and Buddhist communities, is a festival dedicated to Buddhist and Jain traditions.