Prayagraj, a famous city in Uttar Pradesh, is known for its rich culture and religious heritage. It is most famous for the Kumbh Mela, but many other fairs are also held here throughout the year. These fairs bring together thousands of devotees, tourists and traders. They offer a mix of spirituality, traditions and local culture, making Prayagraj a lively and vibrant place to visit.
An Overview of Prayagraj
Prayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, is a major city in Uttar Pradesh, India. It is the administrative and judicial capital of the state, home to the Allahabad High Court. With a population of 1.53 million, it is one of the largest cities in Northern India. Prayagraj is also famous for its rich history, cultural heritage and religious significance, especially the Kumbh Mela.
List of Fairs Held in Prayagraj, Apart from Kumbh Mela
Prayagraj hosts many vibrant fairs throughout the year, apart from the famous Kumbh Mela. These fairs attract thousands of devotees and tourists, offering a mix of spiritual, cultural and traditional experiences. They showcase the city’s rich heritage and festive spirit.
Here is the list of fairs held in Prayagraj apart from the Kumbh Mela:
- Magh Mela
- Kartik Mela
- Jhulan Mela
- Nag Vasuki Mela
- Ram Navami Mela
- Shringverpur Mela
- Bateshwar Mela
Magh Mela
Magh Mela is a Hindu festival held in January or February near rivers and sacred tanks. Every 12 years, it becomes the grand Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj. It is also celebrated at Kumbhakonam in the south, Sagar Island in the east and even in Bali, Indonesia.
Kartik Mela
Kartik Mela is held in the month of Kartik (October-November). It is a religious fair where people take a dip in the holy rivers and performs rituals. This fair is also known for its cultural programs, folk music and local handicrafts. Many devotees visit the temples in the city during this time.
Jhulan Mela
Jhulan Mela is celebrated in the Sharavan month (July-August) in Prayagraj. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha. Beautifully decorated swings (jhulas) are placed in temples, and people sing devotional songs. The fair includes cultural performances, bhajans and processions.
Nag Vasuki Mela
Nag Vasuki Mela is organized near the Nag Vasuki Temple in Daraganj, Prayagraj. It takes place on Nag Panchami (July-August) and is dedicated to Lord Vasuki, the king of serpents. Thousands of devotees visit the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings.
Ram Navami Mela
On the occasion of Ram Navami (March-April), a large fair is held in Prayagraj. It is celebrated to mark the birth of Lord Rama. Devotees visit temples, perform pujas, and participate in religious gatherings. Many stalls selling sweets, clothes and religious items are set up during this fair.
Shringverpur Mela
This fair is held in Shringverpur, a historical place near Prayagraj, associated with Lord Rama. According to mythology, Lord Rama crossed the Ganga from this place during his exile. The fair includes religious rituals, folk dances and cultural programs.
Bateshwar Mela
Bateshwar Mela is a famous cattle fair held near Prayagraj. It is one of the biggest livestock fairs in North India, where people buy and sell cattle, horses and camels. The fair also includes traditional performances, circus shows and local handicrafts stalls.