Agra: Why have local fairs, tamashas, ​​numaishes i.e. exhibitions, stopped?

Agra has a rich tradition of local fairs and cultural activities that flourished in our mohallas and markets until about 40 years ago.

Read in Hindi: स्थानीय मेलों और सांस्कृतिक गतिविधियों को फिर बहाल करने की जरूरत

Unfortunately, this vibrant part of our community life has largely disappeared. Government commercial events like the Taj Mahotsav, carnivals, and exhibitions at hotels do take place, but the old-fashioned fairs and tamashas no longer take place in the Taj City. There is a tremendous opportunity to revive this for the benefit of our city and its residents.

Historically, local fairs and cultural events such as numaish, kabutar-flying, kite-flying, akhada-baazi competitions and mass swimming in the Yamuna brought together people from different localities, fostering a sense of community and belonging. These events not only highlighted our rich cultural heritage but also provided a platform for local artisans, musicians and vendors to showcase their talents and goods, contributing significantly to Agra's cultural fabric. Some events have been going on since the Mughal era, says historian Raj Kishor Raje. People's poet Nazir Akbarabadi also has written extensively on Agra's fairs.

Before the Taj Mahotsav, each mohalla committee used to organize an annual fair in collaboration with the local market committee. The municipality used to provide lighting, sanitation, and water tankers. The deities of local temples were taken out in procession. We used to have Bhairon Ka Mela, Pathwari Ka Mela, Kachhari Ghat Ka Mela, Shah Ganj Ka Mela, Taj Ganj Ka Mela etc. Local products, food items, toys, and goods were sold. An annual exhibition was organized at Ramlila Maidan. “Unfortunately, these cultural footprints have been lost in the mad race of modernisation. This cultural heritage needs promotion and preservation. An integral part of our cultural heritage, local culture deserves restoration,” says senior journalist Rajeev Saxena.

The revival of these fairs can have several significant benefits. Local fairs create a strong sense of belonging. They provide a space for people to come together, interact and celebrate our diversity. This unity can significantly enhance social bonding and cultural exchange.

Also, local fairs can boost the economy by attracting both locals and tourists. By promoting local products, handicrafts and culinary delicacies, we can support small businesses and artists, giving them a much-needed platform to flourish.

Additionally, reviving these events will help preserve our local traditions, art forms and folklore, which are at risk of being forgotten. This allows for an inter-generational exchange, where elders can pass on their knowledge to younger generations. "In the past, tourists also used to visit local events, which helped boost tourism," says industry veteran Rajeev Gupta. "Agra, being a city of historical significance, can leverage these local fairs to boost its tourism. Visitors are often attracted to experiential activities that provide a glimpse into the culture, traditions and everyday life of a place."

Events like mass swimming and other activities around the Yamuna promote physical health and well-being. Connecting with nature and participating in community activities can boost mental health, happiness and a sense of purpose, says Dr Debashish Bhattacharya.

The Agra Municipal Corporation should consider reintroducing local fairs and cultural events. This initiative could take the form of organising seasonal fairs, workshops for local artisans, performances by local artists and cultural competitions that encourage community participation. Involving local schools and institutions can also instil a sense of pride in our culture among the younger generation.

As we look to develop Agra, we must not forget the importance of our cultural heritage and the role it plays in bringing our community together. By restoring these traditions we can build a more vibrant, cohesive and economically prosperous Agra.