Sonepur Mela
According to the 1913 Bihar and Orissa Pilgrim Committee, a fair has been described as the following.
A “fair” is a place where pilgrims congregate in numbers on one or more occasions only during the year: frequently the attractions are secular as well as religious and only in rare instances do people come in numbers from long distances. Such places are, as a rule, but sparsely populated throughout the rest of the year, the only permanent residents being a few faqirs or the people of a small village.
Melas or fairs in Bihar are a common sight. The big fairs in Bihar include the melas of Rajgir near Patna, mela in Patna city, the melas in Jahanabad, in Gaya, Buxar and Sasaram in Shahabad, Revelganj in Saran, Bettiah in Champaran, Sitamarhi, Darbhanga and of course the Sonepur mela. The sonepur mela is the most famous and the oldest not only in Bihar but probably the whole of Asia.
Sonepur Mela in Sonepur, Bihar
It was here at Sonepur in 1888, the first meeting of the “Indian Association of Cow Protection” seminar took place. It was here at the Sonepur mela (mela in Hindi) that the freedom fighter Veer Kunwar Singh took the occasion of the assembly to actively recruit and inspire the people for fighting against the British imperialism both before and during the First Indian was of Independence in 1857. The cover of Sonepur mela led to the main launch of the struggle movement against the British in Bihar. The Provincial Congress Committee of Bihar and the Bihar Kisan Sabha (Farmers union) also used this mela and the gathering as a recruitment ground. That is why Sonepur mela was considered a political hotbed during the colonial rule by the British and kept a watchful eye.
History of Sonepur mela
Sonepur fair in Bihar, India has its origins during ancient times. This is where Chandragupta Maurya used to buy elephants and horses across the river Ganges from Patliputra (Patna of ancient times). Now Sonepur mela is one of the biggest and the world’s greatest fair. It takes place annually, 35 kilometres from Patna, the capital of Bihar. Sonepur mela is held for 21 days in the month of November (from around 5-6th) at the junction of the rivers, Ganga and Gandak. It even has a legendary tale attached to it. Many believe that a struggle took place at this spot in Sonepur between the ruler of Gandharva, Huhu and Indraya muni; ultimately Lord Vishnu helping the weaker latter. That is why there is a vast gathering of devotees gathered at the confluence for the two holy rivers for the blessed dip at the adjacent “Harihar Nath temple” on the full moon day (Kartik Purnima). Many believe that Lord Ram established the temple on his way to Lanka. The locals regard that a dip here at this confluence of the 2 rivers is equivalent to giving away of 100 cows. However, it now attracts people from all geographical and religious diversity from the Punjab and Kashmir to Bhutan and Kerala. During the British Raj, merchants from Afghanistan and Britain used to attend.
Sonepur mela is the Asia’s and probably one of the worlds largest cattle fair. No other mela in Bihar can boast about the crowds it attracts whether it’s Diwali, Chhath, Sivaratri, Ramnavami, Kartik Purnima, Janmashthami, Holi or Durga puja.
Nearly all animals brought here at the Sonepur mela for sale include all breeds of dogs to camels to buffaloes, donkeys, ponies, monkeys, chimps, Persian horses, sheep, rabbits, bears, cats, and guinea pigs. All varieties of birds, poultry and fishes are also available. The Sonepur mela specialises in the sale of every type of bird and animal, big or small.This is only place in the world that sells elephants in large numbers. Handicrafts, paintings and pottery not only from famous Madhubani but all over India can be seen here. All varieties of horticulture can be admired; this is a particular feast for the people of Bihar as it’s a major opportunity to enhance their gardens. Temporary shops selling household goods, local and branded clothing and commercial merchandise are also up for sale. At the Sonepure mela one can buy almost anything. Not to forget the food lovers, it’s absolutely divine. In recent years, government and several companies have started installing their shops to promote their products and services.
It even runs health camps for the wellbeing of animals specially elephants. Animal farmers, circus entertainers, traders and individuals come for a bargain. Some come for the sheer entertainment and a family day out that it provides.
Getting to Sonepur mela:
Air: Take a flight to Patna airport and book in a hotel. Some good hotels include;
Rail: Alternatively get to Patna Station and stay at one of the below hotels.
Also could go to Hajipur that is the nearest railway station.
From Patna you could hire a taxi (autos, the famous 3 wheeler) from the railway station or anywhere that will take you across the Ganges to the Sonepur mela.
Hotel Maurya: South Gandhi, Maidan Patna, Patna, Bihar (5 star)
Samrat International: Fraser Road, Patna, Bihar (3 Star)
Patliputra Ashoka: Beer Chand Patel Path, Patna, Bihar (2 Star)
Chankya: Bir Chand Patel Path, Patna, Bihar (4 Star)
Kautilya Vihar: Beer Chand Patel Path, Patna (Govt. owned)
Hotel Republic: Exhibition Road, Patna, Bihar (2 Star)
Hotel President: Fraser Road, Patna, Bihar (2 Star)
Or if you prefer you could check in some smaller hotels in and around the Patna railway station such as the Marwari Awas Griha (Near the D-Lal retail shop near Dak Banglow).
Vaishali district of Bihar
Vaishali (in Pali Vesall, now Besarh) lies twenty miles north of Hajipur, on the left bank of the Ganges, and twenty-seven north-east of Patna. This town (the city of the Licchavis) is celebrated as the scene of the second Council. Near it, at a place called Bakhra, is a celebrated ancient pillar surmounted by a lion. Vaisali, however, is chiefly noted as one of the places where Gautama often preached and taught, and where he stopped on his way to Kusinara, the place of his death. His usual residence was in a Vihara, described by Fa-hien as double-galleried, and in a garden presented to him by the courtesan Amba-pali, whom he converted and induced to live a virtuous life. Ajatasatru conquered the Licchavis and other small states to the north of Magadha. Read about the history of Bihar. WGJRQ36REQJ7
History of Vaishali
The district of Vaishali came in to existence on 12/10/1972. Earlier it was the part of old Muzzafarpur district. Vaishali has a past that pre-dates recorded history. It is held that the town derives its name from King Vishal, whose heroic deeds are narrated in the Hindu epic Ramayana. However, history records that around the time Pataliputrawas the centre of political activity in the Gangetic plains, Vaishali came into existence as centre of the Ganga, it was the seat of the Republic ofVajji. Vaishali is credited with being the World’s First Republic to have a duly elected assembly of representatives and efficient administration. The Lord Buddha visited Vaishali more than once during his lifetime and announced his approaching Mahaparinirvana to the great followers he had here. Five years after the Enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, Lord Buddha came to Vaishali, the capital of one the first republican states in the Ganga, Vaishali is bound by the hills of Nepal on the north and the river Gandak on the west. Hundred years after he attained Mahaparinirvana, it was the venue of the second Buddhist Council. According to one belief, the Jain Tirthankar, Lord Mahavir was born at Vaishali. The Chinese travelers Fa-Hien and Hieun Tsang also visited this place in early 5th and 7th centuries respectively and wrote about Vaishali.
The Lichchavi nobility came to receive the Enlightened One with a cavalcade of elephants and chariots bedecked with gold. As the Lord set foot on the soil of Vaishali, lightning and thunder followed by a heavy downpour purged the plague-infected city. The Buddha preached the Ratna Sutra to those assembled, and eighty-four thousand people embraced the new faith. It was also at Vaishali that Amrapali, the famous courtesan, earned the respect of the Sangha and a place in history, with her generous donations. The neighbouring village ofAmvara is said to be the site of Amrapali’s mango grove. Once when the Lord was visiting Vaishali, Amrapali invited him to her house and the Lord graciously accepted the offer. An overjoyed Amrapali, returning on her chariot, raised a cloud of dust. The Lichchavi princes going to meet the Buddha got enveloped in the dust and learnt of the Buddha’s forthcoming visit to her house. The Lichchavi princes wanted to exchange Amrapali’s honour for one hundred thousand gold coins. Amrapali steadfastly refused their offer and after the Buddha’s visit to her house she was purged of all impurities. She gifted her mango grove to the Sangha. Amrapali joined the order after realising the transitory nature of all things, including beauty.
Places to see in Vaishali district
A kilometre away is Abhishek Pushkarini, the coronation tank. The sacred waters of the tank anointed the elected representatives of Vaishali. Next to it stands the Japanese temple and the Vishwa Shanti Stupa (World Peace Pagoda) built by the Nipponzan Myohoji sect ofJapan. A small part of the Buddha’s relics found in Vaishali have been enshrined in the foundation and in the chhatra of the Stupa. Near the coronation tank is Stupa 1 or the Relic Stupa. Here the Lichchavis reverentially encased on of the eight portions of the Master’s relics, which they received after the Mahaparinirvana. In the north is the SiteMuseum. It has an excellent collection dating from 3rd century BC to 6th century AD. The terracotta monkey heads in different styles are interesting. The Site Museum is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. It is closed on Fridays. Entry is free. After his last discourse the Awakened One set out for Kushinagar, but the Lichchavis kept following him. Buddha gave them his alms bowl but they still refused to return. The Master created an illusion of a river in spate which compelled them to go back. This site can be identified with Deora in modern Kesariya village, where Ashoka later built a stupa. Ananda, the favourite disciple of the Buddha, attained Nirvana in the midst of the Ganga outside Vaishali.
Places to visit in Bihar
Bihar is called the land of the Buddha. There is no shortage of places to see in Bihar. Here is a list of the most popular places to visit in Bihar.
Vaishali:
Vaishali was one of the earliest republics in the world (6th century BC).It was here that Buddha preached his last sermon. Vaishali, birthplace of Lord Mahavira is also Sacred to Jains.
Patna:
Patna once called Patliputra, the capital of Bihar, is among the world’s oldest capital cities with unbroken history of many centuries as imperial metropolis of the Mauryas and Guptas imperial dynasties. More on history of Bihar.
Rajgir:
Rajgir,19 kms from Nalanda, was the ancient capital of Magadha Empire. Lord Buddha often visited the monastery here to meditate and to preach. Rajgir is also a place sacred to the Jains, Since Lord Mahavira spent many years here.
Rajgir in Bihar: Land of Mahavira
Pawapuri:
In Pawapuri, or Apapuri, 38 kilometres from Rajgir and 90 kilometres from Patna, all sins end for a devout Jain. Lord Mahavira, the final tirthankar and founder of Jainism, breathed his last at this place.
Bodhgaya:
Near the holy city of Gaya, the Buddha attained enlightenment. The tree that had sheltered him came to be known as the Bodhi tree and the place Bodhgaya. Today Bodhgaya, an important place of pilgrimage, has a number of monasteries, some of them established by Buddhists of Japan, Thailand, Myanmar, Sri Lanka etc.
Kesaria:
Two miles to the south standPatna once called Patliputra the capital of Bihar,is among the world’s oldest capital cities with unbroken history of many centuries as imperial metropolis.
Two miles to the south stands a lofty brick mount copped by a slid brick tower of considerable size which itself is a remain of a Buddhist stupa. The mound iself is a runed circumference at is base, while the stupa which is in runins, diameter of 68 feet at its base and a total height of 5½ ft originally it was crowned by Pinnacle which must have stood 80 or 90 ft above the ground. General Cunningham was of opinion that it does back to AD 200 to 700, and that it was built upon the ruins of a much older and larger stupa.
Kushinagar:
53 km west of Gorakhpur.Kushinagar is where the Lord Buddha breathed his last and achieved mahaparinirvana. Their are ruins here of many stupas as well as the chaityas and viharas that wehe built in latter times.
Muzaffarpur:
35 km from Vaishali.Muzaffarpur the “Lychee Kingdom”, is one of the major towns of North Bihar, a short distance from other popular tourist spots Hazipur and Sonepur.Today Muzaffarpur is famous for its exotic fruit “LYCHEE”.
Nalanda:
A great centre of Buddhist learning, Nalanda came into around the 5th century BC and was a flourishing university town with over ten thousand scholars and an extensive library.
The rivers of around Pataliputra or Palibothra
When the capital of India was Pataliputra or Palibothra it was situated on the Ganges at the junction of the Erranaboas or Aldos River. The former name has already been identified with the Sanskrit “Hiranyabahu” an epithet which has been applied both to the Gandak and to the Son. But the latter name can only refer to the Hi-le-an of the Chinese traveller which was to the north of the Ganges and was therefore undoubtedly the Gandak. Indeed this river still joins the Ganges immediately opposite to Patna that is “the city” or metropolis as its proper name (patina) implies while the junction of the Son is some nine or ten miles above Patna.
But as there is good reason for believing that the Son once joined the Ganges at Bakipur or Bankipur immediately above Patna it is quite possible that the Erranaboas may have been intended for the Son and the Aldos for the Gandak. According to Megasthenes Palibothra were eighty stadia or nearly nine miles in length and fifteen stadia or one mile and two thirds in breadth. It was surrounded with a deep ditch and was enclosed by lofty wooden walls pierced with loop holes for the discharge of arrows.
Reasons For Mass Exodus Of Biharies
Bihar state of India has always been in the headlines for mass exodus, of its inhabitants to neighboring states, in search employment and opportunities. The recent flood crisis has again brought the place on the fore ground of international arena. Bihar has again managed to hit the headlines but this time the situation is critical. The mass exodus of Biharis due to flood in Kosi river has just been initiated and this time the migration is going to be mammoth and gigantic. Who is to blame for it, Nepal or India? The question needs some solemn consideration and evaluation and the deductions can be concluded via following points;
Bihari labourer in the construction outside the state
Reasons why Biharis are leaving the state
A) Nepal:- To a level the present mass exodus is generated by Nepal, as the prime reason for it is the fact that the flood originated in Nepal. The dam over the Sapta Kosi River in Nepal crumpled against tremendous pressure of the water, and huge metric cubic centimeters of water gushed out towards the neighboring region of Bihar, wiping out the entire state from head to tail in a wink of an eye. Though the situation is accidental and has generated unprecedented loss of life and properties devoiding the natives, of whatever opportunities were existed. But Bihar in my conception is an exception as the mass exodus or migration of people from Bihar was always there, in the form of laborers and workers. Hence Nepal might be held responsible for the disaster and mass exodus of the migrants this time but certainly not for the past years.
B) India:- As a nation which boast of becoming the new super power India has failed to live up to its expectations, for looking after its own citizen, and the scenario prevailing in Bihar have just added fuel to fire ,which only aggravated the migration of Biharis from their native place to the neighboring regions.
Following 3 points discuss how India is responsible for mass exodus of Biharis;
1) Political apathy:- The political system in India is based on democracy. But as a nation, all that is done in the country is plain and simple talking and promises made by the political leaders which are to be broken after elections. Bihar is in a state of upheaval, and the political champions are busy, making flood as the next agenda for the forth coming elections instead of procuring a healing touch to the people, tormented and devastated by the flood. Even after the crisis, nothing concrete has been done. The relief rations and medicines which on paper have already been dispatched, have still not managed to reach flood victims and it is feared that most of the money for the relief work has already been squandered among the politicians and the authorities. Since independence lack of political will to change Bihar and encouraging it, to be assimilated in the mainstream has been lacking. The reasons are still not clear and ambiguous considering the rich ore reserves of the state other natives from varied states should have migrated to Bihar, but on the contrary Biharies are seen migrating to other states as laborers and workers. The flood crisis in Bihar, has only intensified the perpetual process hidden behind the scenes, but now virtually lies exposed to the world.
2) Lack of opportunities:- The mass exodus seen after the flood crisis is not new to the people it is an ongoing process which has just gained pace. Lack of employment and job opportunities along with poor infrastructure are the prime causes of this migration and whatever little was existing has been wiped away by the cruel waters of river Kosi.
3) Conditions after flood:– The prevailing conditions after the flood are not prudent. Lack of rescue measures and medical aids, give clear signs of an epidemic outburst. There is scarcity of human amenities like food and drinking water as well as shelter. People are forced to live in unhygienic conditions, but for how long? In a few weeks when the story of a Bihar being tormented with flood will be over, people will fail to get even the attention that they are getting at present. All theses conditions together in conjunction with other reasons become the prime reason for mass exodus of Biharis.
Bihar floods
Tormented by extreme hardship and sometimes labeled as one of the most backward state of India Bihar seems to never run out of problems and has recently been torn apart by the gigantic flood in river Kosi, destroying property worth millions and life which is priceless. Till date more than 70 causalities have been reported and there is absolutely no count for the missing or wounded. The common man is the one who is mostly affected by this unprecedented act of nature. The nation has declared it a national calamity. Funds and aids have started pouring from all the corners of world. But little has been done as yet to wipe away the tears and sufferings of the people.
Bihar floods
Floods in Bihar: The river Kosi
A villager who was just saved by a hook from the debauched currents of Kosi replied, ”Kosi is angry and is punishing us for our sins”, but is it literally the genuine story. The truth unraveled reveals that it was the dam on Saptakosi River which sculpted to the tremendous amount of water pressure in Nepal wiping villages after villages in the neighboring country of India. Though India is not responsible for this surprised outbreak of flood, but what seems to be the basic problem, resides in the contemporary realm of the rescue methodologies that have been executed after the disaster.
Bihar is often termed as failed state but the country has further added jewel to the crown by failing the state with equally detrimental rescue services. When the entire world is watching Indian government has placed its trust on god and has left every thing on the whims of time and destiny. Whatever aid that can be perceived is coming from private donation boxes and Non Government Organizations.
Para military forces have been called for the rescue work and Border Security forces seem to do every thing possible in hand, this is what the government is preaching, but one fails to comprehend that why are news flashes such as “Biharies destitute loot the ration trucks”, perpetually hitting the front pages. The answer is simple people are devastated and outraged by hunger and illness and will do anything to fill their belly instead of starving to death.
Villages like “Muraripur” completely washed away by the current, tell yet another sorry tale of the governmental apathy and the holistic approach it has formed after the calamity. The condition of the camps which is supposed to house 10 families is pathetic. Medical authorities are no where to be found and villagers are seen helping themselves with whatever is left at the banks of river Kosi. Water has invariably shattered their lives and has not only seeped into their houses but also into their lives. The situation is critical and there are chances of mass out break of chronic diseases such as diarrhea, cholera and jaundice. People are ill equipped and shocked by the apathy of their own democratically elected leaders.
On the international front the global community is very supportive, there was news that about one million euros will be rounded up for the relief work in Bihar by the European Union. Lots of other foreign charitable trusts and organization have stepped forward to contribute in the rescue work, supplying much needed medicines, clothing and food to the destitute people of Bihar.
Bihar Floods: A presentation be Sewa International
On one hand social activist like Medha Patkar were perceived sharing grief of the people in “Arail”, a devastated village of Bihar, while on the other hand former chief minister Mr. Laloo Prasad Yadav has already declared, flood in Kosi, as the next political issue and agenda in Bihar. Eventually it is the Biharies who are going to suffer in the end caught between the alien and non appreciative government and equally antagonist flood water, they will have to build their own lives without any expectations from anyone. One thing which is for sure is the fact that some parts of Bihar, after this flood, has traveled even further deep into the time and there are few chances that it will ever bounce back again unless the people of other states welcome their own countrymen with open hands and solicit sing notes.
History of Ancient Bihar
The history of Bihar is the history of ancient India. The term Bihar originates from “VIHARA” (monastery) as hundreds of monasteries have been excavated because of its association to the Buddha’s life. It is thought that about 2500 years ago, the Buddha is said to have achieved enlightenment at Bodh Gaya under a tree, what is now known as the “Bodhi Tree”. Currently the Mahabodhi Temple marks the exact location of Buddha’s enlightment.
Bihar History
Mahavira was also born on this ancient kingdom of Vaishali where he achieved perfect enlightment The author of the Hindu epic; The Ramayana, Maharishi Valmiki also lived in Ancient Bihar. The birthplace of Sita Mata is a village calld “Punaura”, located at Sitamarhi. Guru Goind Singh was born at Patna Sahib marked by a glorious Gurudwara called the the “Takht Sri Patna Sahib” built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Vishnupad Temple (12km, at Gaya): In 1787 Queen Ahilya Bai built the Vishnu temple on the banks of river Falgu. The temple has some great architecture and design which attracts devotees and tourists alike. A 30-meter high octagonal tower overshadows this temple.
Chandragupta Maurya established the Mauryan Empire in 322 BC by overthrowing the Nanda dynasty and also liberated the trans-indus region from Macedonian occupation by defeating Seleucus-I of Alexander’s army.
The Mauryan Empire (220 years later) ruled by the Mauryan dynasty, is considered the largest and most powerful political and military empire of ancient India. Magadh or ancient Bihar had its capital in Patliputra (Patna) that stretched from Afghanistan to most of the South and the east coast of India. After the famous Kalinga (Orrisa) war Ashoka the Great ended the military expansion of the empire and converted to Buddhism. It is considered as the greatest empire to rule the Indian subcontinent.
Ashoka was the last great king of the Mauryan empire. His successors were of no importance and in 184 BC the last of the Mauryan kings was assassinated ending first empire of India originating from Bihar.
After the Mauryan dynasty, Pushyamitra established the Sunga dynasty that has a line of ten rulers of Magadh. It was under the rule of the Sungas that Patanjali’s Mahabhashya was written. This shows that the history of Bihar was indeed the cradle of Indian civilization in terms administration, religion, art and literature.
After some regional kings of less importance Chandragupta (not Chandragupta Maurya) established the Gupta Empire (A.D. 320-550) and united North India again with its capital at Patliputra. It was during the Gupta period that Sanskrit language and literature were at its peak, literature on medicine, mathematics, astronomy and astrophysics were written.
Hamaar! ! ! Bhojwood Industry 