Report / Hafiz Qureshi
BANI, MAY 18 :- Preparations have officially begun for the famous and historic “Bani Chhinj Mela,” which is celebrated every year with great enthusiasm and cultural fervor in the picturesque hilly region of Bani in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir. The traditional fair, usually organized during the last week of June from June 24 to June 27, is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivities.In this connection, an important meeting was organized by the Pahari Culture Manch at the Bani Mela Ground. The meeting was chaired by PCM President Subhash Chander, where detailed discussions were held regarding various arrangements for the successful conduct of the mela.Key issues discussed during the meeting included registration and auditions of local artists, preparations for cultural programmes, arrangements for VIP guests, and participation of artists from outside regions. Among those present in the meeting were Dev Raj, Mela Ram, Hem Raj, Ranbir Singh, Pawan Kumar, Mushtaq Ahmed, Mohammad Hafeez, Sudesh Kumar, Madan Lal, Sudam Khan and several other members of the committee.
Committee members stated that special efforts are being made this year to make the mela more grand, organized, and attractive so that a larger number of people can enjoy the historic event. Speakers at the meeting highlighted that the Bani Chhinj Mela is a cultural tradition nearly 200 years old and continues to remain a symbol of the region’s heritage and identity.
They further said that the mela not only holds religious and cultural importance but also plays a vital role in promoting tourism in the area. Every year, thousands of visitors from nearby areas as well as different states participate in the fair. Apart from colorful cultural programmes, the mela is especially famous for its traditional wrestling competitions, in which wrestlers from various regions take part. Stalls related to clothing, food items, household goods, and other businesses are also set up during the mela, attracting large crowds.
The mela is not limited to entertainment and culture alone but also creates employment and business opportunities for local residents. During the fair, local traders as well as businessmen from outside states set up their many type of stalls, which contributes significantly to the local economy.They added that the Bani Chhinj Mela not only preserves and promotes the cultural heritage of the region but also strengthens brotherhood, traditions, and local values.
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