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Draft:Mhasa jatra

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Mhasa jatra
StatusActive
GenreReligious / Cultural
DatePaush Purnima (January–February)
FrequencyAnnual
LocationsMhasa Village, Murbad Taluka, Thane District, Maharashtra
AttendanceOver 500,000 annually

Mhasa Jatra

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The Mhasa Jatra is a traditional rural fair held annually in Mhasa Village, located in the Murbad Taluka of Thane district, Maharashtra, India. Celebrated in honor of the regional deity Shri Khamlingeshwar Mhasoba, the fair is both a significant religious pilgrimage and an economic event. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and cultural significance, the fair attracts thousands of visitors each year, making it one of the most anticipated events in the region.[1]


History and Significance

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The Mhasa Jatra has a rich history spanning several centuries, deeply rooted in the agricultural and cultural tradition of the region. The fair is organized by the Sri Khamlingeshwar Mhasoba Devastan Trust, which oversees the religious and cultural activities associated with the event .The fair's primary attraction includes large cattle market, traditional games, and various cultural performances.

The fair traditionally served as seasonal gathering for farming communities, combining religious devotion. Over time, it evolved into major social and commercial event, reinforcing community ties and supporting the local rural economy.[2]

Key Attractions

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  1. Cattle Market : One of the main highlights of the Mhasa Jatra is its extensive cattle market , where thousands of livestock are bought and sold .This market serves as a vital economic activity for local farmers and traders from surrounding regions. Traders from various parts of Maharashtra, including Nashik, Pune, Ahmednagar, and beyond, participate in the market. It is considered one of the largest cattle markets in the region.[3]
  2. Traditional Games and Cultural Performances: The fair features a variety of traditional games and cultural performances that reflect the rich heritage of the region . Events such as bullock cart races, tug-of-wars and traditional wrestling matches are organized, drawing large crowds.
  3. Flea Market : A bustling flea market is set up during the fair, offering a wide range of products, including household items, clothing, agricultural tools and local handicrafts. The market provides the opportunity for visitors to experience the local craftsmanship and purchase unique items .

Impact of COVID-19

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In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mhasa Jatra was canceled in 2021 to prevent large gatherings and ensure public safety. Authorities imposed Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) in Mhasa village and the surrounding 5 km radius, prohibiting the assembly of people in public places during the scheduled dates of the fair. The decision was made to curb the spread of virus and protect the health of community.[4]

References

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  1. ^ "शेकडो वर्षांची परंपरा असलेल्या ठाण्यातील म्हसा जत्रेला सुरुवात" [Beginning of Mhasa Jatra in Thane]. ABP Live Marathi.
  2. ^ "म्हसोबाची यात्रेची तयारी पूर्ण". Esakal. 11 January 2025.
  3. ^ "Cattle market in the Mhasa Yatra ",Loksatta,27 Dec 2022.https://www.loksatta.com/thane/cattle-market-in-the-mhasa-yatra-in-murbad-taluka-thane-amy-95-3358134/
  4. ^ "Mhasa Yatra cancelled due to pandemic". The New Indian Express. 29 January 2021.