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The largest cattle fair in Asia is held in Sonepur, a town located in northern Bihar on the banks of the Ganga river. The fair takes place on the full moon day of the month of Kartik, which falls in November. In ancient times, the Royal Rajahs and Nawabs used to camp in Sonepur, and the town has a unique historical significance in Indian mythology. Visitors from all over the world gather at the Hariharnath temple to pray for health and prosperity. The temple was built by Lord Rama when he was going to meet Sita in the court of King Janak, and it was later repaired by Raja Man Singh.
During the Sonepur Fair, visitors enjoy the pulsating market of cattle and commodities. Stalls offer a wide range of merchandise, from garments to weapons, furniture, toys, utensils, jewelry, and handicrafts. Elephants are a major attraction, with a large number being sold at the fair. They and other cattle are mostly bought and sold by forest departments and people heavily involved in logging operations. In ancient times, Chandragupta Maurya used to buy elephants and horses across the Ganges river during this time of year.
Originally, the venue of the fair was Hajipur, and the ritual ceremonies used to take place in the Hariharnath temple in Sonepur. However, under the rule of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, the venue was shifted to Sonepur. The fair lasts for about fourteen days, and on the day before and after Kartik Poornima, the town becomes a wonderland with the aim of overwhelming tourists and rural folks. The beautifully decorated elephants are the major attraction for sale, but there is also a great horse racing event where owners showcase their riding skills and the prowess of their cattle to spectators and traders.
In addition to the cattle market and horse racing, theaters and dance shows take place during the fair. The event lasts late into the night, with a thrilling ‘maut-ka-kua’ stuntmen show featuring screaming bikes and cars, magic shows, colorful and delicious street food, and various colorful bangles and ornaments. With music, dance, lighting, and the entire brilliantly organized fair, Sonepur becomes the gem of Bihar.
Date: November
Location: Sonepur
State: Bihar
